The Future of Assessment White Paper

Why now?
- The new governor plans to end use of the controversial PARCC exam
- The one-size-fits-all, single-state test accountability system has not served New Mexico’s diverse population over the last 20 years
- The federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) opens doors for flexibility New Mexico has not yet utilized to build a comprehensive system of assessment
- Yazzie/Martinez vs the State of New Mexico decision sets the stage for transforming support for all students, especially students with disabilities and students of color
- New Mexico is facing extreme teacher shortages and must recommit to valuing teachers as professionals
“It’s time for change. Traditional and innovative performance assessments better measure the desired milestones and attributes for college and career readiness.”