SB814 Summary

• Transitions Arkansas public school assessment system from high-stakes end-of-course assessments for Algebra I and English II to next-generation assessments aligned with Common Core State Standards in English language arts and mathematics

• Repeals the definition of "high-stakes end-of-course assessment" and replaces it with "college and career readiness measurements" to determine student readiness for postsecondary education and careers

• Eliminates the requirement for a separate English II high-stakes assessment (estimated cost over $2 million) while maintaining Algebra I assessments and adding end-of-course assessments in geometry

• Updates terminology throughout education code sections 6-15-401 et seq. and 6-16-601 et seq. to align postsecondary preparatory programs with the new college and career readiness measurement framework

• Declares an emergency effective immediately upon Governor approval to allow school districts and educators to prepare for implementation of the new assessment system by 2014-2015 or 2015-2016 school year