"The Department of Education is committed to supporting all states in assessing student learning during the pandemic to help target resources and support to the students with the greatest needs," said Ian Rosenblum, acting assistant secretary for elementary and secondary education. "We also recognize that at a time when everything in our education system is different, there need to be different ways that states can administer state tests like moving them to the fall so that precious in-person learning time this year can be spent on instruction. Balancing these priorities is the best approach." If students in Michigan do have to take the test, it could have major implications for those in the third-grade. After being delayed last year due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the retention aspect of Michigan’s Read by Grade Three law is set to take effect.