Senate Bill 109

“An Act repealing the secondary student competency examination and related requirements; and providing for an effective date.”

What: The State of Alaska currently requires successful completion of a High School Graduation Qualifying Examination (HSGQE) by all students in order for them to receive their diplomas. Currently, 26 other states have similar qualifying examinations, an outcome of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. They require students to pass what is referred to as a ‘minimum competency exam,’ which is supposed to test the cognitive abilities of a student to make sure it is at a required level.


Why: One of the largest difficulties with Alaska’s HSGQE is that it does not leave room for students with significant disabilities requiring the use of certain technologies to take the exam with their necessary equipment. For example, a student may have impaired motor skills requiring them to use a computer and keyboard to complete assignments, yet they will not be allowed to use that technology during the HSGQE due to bans on technology (aimed at text messaging and cell phone use, primarily)
Furthermore, enacting a HSGQE may compel teachers to teach around the test, which is composed mainly of rudimentary skills, rather than teaching other pertinent curricular information. Some feel that this may cause a decline in the quality of education students receive in Alaska.
As always, the Governor’s Council strives to take a position where all students will have fair and equal access to the best public education available, and thus, we are in support of SB 109.

 

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