CAHSEE suspended, students rejoice

California has suspended the California High School Exit Examination (CAHSEE) through the 2017-18 school year. Students will not need to pass the exam to graduate in the 2015–2016, 2016–2017, and 2017–2018 school years.

The law also requires local educational agencies (LEAs) to grant a diploma to any student who completed grade twelve in 2004 school or later year and has met all applicable graduation requirements, other than passage of the high school exit examination.

This will have a heavy effect on present and past students.

“The test wasn’t fair at all to the people who were learning Common Core,” said junior Mason Micheli.

Students who just took the test have a general consensus that that the old test should have been ousted right when Common Core began.

“The test was not aligned with the new Common Core Standards, which incorporate a focus on critical thinking, and a collaborative approach to learning,” said CVHS counselor Sandra Pula.

This test has also had a negative effect on poverty-stricken districts, leaving some students at a disadvantage. Thus, the decision was made to give diplomas to students who didn’t pass the test.

“The CAHSEE presents a significant barrier to students with learning differences, English language learners, and economically disadvantaged students. The intent of the CAHSEE was to improve student learning; however, for marginalized students, the exam has often created a wider achievement gap,” said Pula.

There may be a new test implemented in the future to match the new Common Core standards. The law to suspend the test lasts through 2018, so current freshmen may have to contend with a new test before graduating.

“The testing needed to be adjusted to the curriculum,” said junior Elliot Breitinger.

In the meantime students at CVHS will have the luxury not taking the test while they wait to see what the state decides to do.