AK HB346

Establishes a high school entrance benchmark assessment for all grade 8 students in spring, approved by the commissioner, to help school districts improve curriculum and remedial programs; this assessment is not required for graduation.

Department shall adopt regulations for uniform administration procedures for the benchmark assessment and alternative assessments for students with disabilities.

Repeals the secondary student competency examination (AS 14.03.075) and related reporting requirements that tracked student passage rates and diploma waivers.

Removes references to competency exam results from annual school performance reports and accountability measures, replacing them with standards-based assessments in reading, writing, and mathematics.

Takes effect July 1, 2012.