Issue Paper 2: The Exception for Advanced Mathematics Assessments in 8th Grade (Updated for Session 2)
Based on the March negotiated rulemaking session in March 2016, this paper provides updated proposed regulatory language regarding testing exceptions for students taking advanced mathematics in grade 8. Rather than take the state’s grade 8 mathematics assessment, the proposed regulation would allow students taking advanced mathematics to take the course’s associated assessment instead. This updated proposed regulatory language ensures that students in this case take a state-administered end-of-course assessment or nationally-recognized high school academic assessment. There is also language included that requires states to demonstrate how it offers students opportunities to be prepared for and take advanced mathematics courses in middle school.