The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) announced Feb. 11 that it is postponing the planned start date of all assessments until April 5, 2021.
In a special broadcast memo, the NJDOE said it recognizes the disruption to education due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“While the United States Department of Education has not indicated that it will allow states to waive their statewide assessment obligations for the 2020-2021 school year,” the memo said, “the NJDOE has heard requests from many stakeholders to explore all options regarding flexibilities prior to administering the statewide assessment systems.”
New Jersey School Boards Association Executive Director Dr. Lawrence S. Feinsod said, “It is our hope that the state will give consideration to eliminating formal student assessments for this year, due to the unique circumstances of the pandemic. It would provide welcome relief to boards, superintendents, students and staff.”
In the broadcast memo, the NJDOE said it will provide updated information as soon as possible, as well as support for districts as they continue to tentatively schedule and plan for the spring administration of the statewide tests.