New Hanover County has several tests that your child may need to take or else your child may lose certain benefits.
- All High School End of Year tests must be taken since they are worth a minimum of 25% of the student’s grade.
- High School graduation is contingent on the student passing Math I (formerly Algebra I), English II, and Biology End of Class tests.
- To receive AIG services (gifted programs) often the 3rd grade End of Grade test is used as one criteria. Once a child is admitted into the AIG program then they do not need to continue to take the End of Year tests to stay in the program.
- The 3rd Grade End of Grade Test in Reading must be passed to be promoted to 4th grade although an alternative test and portfolio may be an option.
- Middle school Math and English placements are usually determined by End of Grade tests.
So the remainder of the Elementary and Middle School End of Class tests given yearly serves no educational function for your children. Those are the tests we suggest you opt out of ( or refuse) if you want to protect your children, teachers and the schools.
Warning: One child did refuse the test last year and the state department gave her a 1 on her tests. This policy is not public but it has been threatened in other school districts.