This is a newsletter from ODE…useful news and resources for educators

November 21, 2012

The Ohio Board of Regents (OBR), the State Board of Education and the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) have reached an agreement that will end the Ohio Graduation Test. Starting in 2014-2015, the OGT will be replaced  with a nationally standardized college readiness test and end-of-course/year exams in English I, II and III; Algebra I; Geometry; Algebra II; Biology; Physical Science; American History; and American Government.

OBR and ODE are developing requirements to seek bids for a nationally standardized assessment to measure student preparation for postsecondary education and the workforce. The agencies signed a memorandum of agreement last month as required by state law.

Acting Superintendent of Public Instruction Michael L. Sawyers called the move “a major step forward in our reform efforts to ensure all Ohio students have the knowledge and skills necessary to leave school remediation-free and ready for their postsecondary experience in higher education or workforce training.”

Student performance on these required tests is expected to be part of the student’s course grade and a factor in Ohio’s revised accountability system. A transition plan is being finalized for full implementation of the new requirements for Ohio’s students and schools.