Will Florida’s new test be valid?
Earlier this year, the Florida Legislature passed a law requiring a validity study of the state’s new annual test that replaced the FCAT. The Florida Standards Assessment (FSA) was first used…
How one superintendent is moving away from testing
Currently, there has been a growing backlash against standardized testing in K-12 education. Parents have long complained that their students are being overtested resulting in a loss of instruction time. Federal…
Student Alliance leader helps build a #GradNation
OK…we have to take a minute to brag. One of our students is featured in the Tampa Bay Times for his founding work with the Student Alliance for Public Schools.…
Student Alliance members collaborate for student success
This year’s Youth Leadership Conference was a lot of fun! 40 students from 7 Tampa area high schools met at Jefferson High School for three days of collaboration, brainstorming and creativity. The…
Senate Passes Education Bill
In a show of overwhelming bipartisan support Thursday, the U.S. Senate voted to pass sweeping changes to the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. The vote was 81-17 and came after…
Declare Independence from Testing
As you celebrate Independence Day with your families, we urge you to declare independence from testing for all students. This week, the Senate will debate the reauthorization of the Elementary and…
Congress leaves kids behind
As high school graduation season wraps up around the country, the class of 2015 has one unique characteristic you might not be aware of. This year’s graduates are the first…
Broken promises: state late again
Another deadline has come and gone with districts still waiting for exam results from the state. The state promised districts a list of students in the bottom quintile of the…
Less money for schools than promised
Florida lawmakers are wrapping up the budget work that was so contentious it required a special session to complete. Most issues have been settled including the education budget. Last minute negotiations…
Schools Likely Losers in Budget Fight
News out of Tallahassee Tuesday night says the House and Senate have reached an agreement on education spending levels. Reportedly, they have agreed to a modest 3% increase that puts school…