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For Immediate
Release
7/9/09
Piccola Issues Statement Regarding State
Board’s Compromise on Graduation Exams
HARRISBURG – Senator Jeffrey E. Piccola (R-15), Chairman of the Senate
Education Committee, reacted to the compromise announced today regarding the
ongoing debate to implement graduation testing and praised the State Board of
Education for its efforts and work with various interested parties.
"I applaud Joseph Torsella, Chairman of the State Board, for producing a
compromise on one of the most difficult educational issues I’ve witnessed in all
my years of legislative service and particularly in the midst of the toughest
budget climate ever experienced by our Commonwealth. He and the State Board’s
staff are to be commended for consulting closely with lawmakers from all four
caucuses and the various educational interest groups that represent our
teachers, administrators, school boards, parents, students, and special
education, intently listening to the concerns of everyone."
"Based on my initial review, this compromise has my support because it
represents accountability that promises to ensure the taxpayers’ investment is
producing a high school diploma which means something and allows our students to
compete in the ever-changing global economy. Under the compromise, the Keystone
Exams would continue to be voluntary for school districts to use. An important
point for me, however, is that the exam has a meaningful impact on a student’s
final course grade. At 33 percent, this is clearly the case while removing the
concern that it is an ‘all or nothing’, high stakes test. The compromise also
means the Keystone Exams will replace the PSSA which has been a consistent point
for me from day one removing duplication and the ongoing state expense of
supporting the PSSA."
"Additionally, I am pleased this compromise recognizes the need for special
education accommodations and allows an ‘alternative pathway’ for students who do
not test well, a plan similar to one implemented by the state of Maryland. Both
of these concerns have been articulated clearly throughout this debate including
during the Senate Education Committee’s public hearing this past February."
"Early next week, I will convene a public hearing of the Senate Education
Committee to give Chairman Torsella an opportunity to brief members on the
compromise. Following our hearing, I will keep my commitment to my colleagues
by bringing a resolution before the committee, in consultation with my
Democratic colleague, Senator Andrew Dinniman (D-Chester), to ensure this issue
is appropriately vetted in the Senate."
"Finally, while this compromise should give significant guidance to the
budget negotiators, the Governor will need to convince the General Assembly to
fund the initial phase of the Keystone Exams."
Contact:
Colleen Greer
(717) 787-6801
Additional Information:
Education
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