Federal government mandates standardized tests
While schools have been sympathetic to families’ wishes, they don’t have a choice. The federal government is mandating that all states give their standardized tests this spring, a requirement that was waived last year.
Although students are not penalized if they opt out, schools, in the past, have been sanctioned if they fall short of a 95% participation rate, which several superintendents are doubtful they will reach this spring. States, however, can request waivers on this rule.
Although Rhode Island has no opt-out provision, families can apply for a medical exemption from their doctor. Schools can also provide special accommodations for students.