Starting from the upcoming school year, high school students in Mississippi will no longer need to pass the U.S. history state test to graduate. This decision was officially made on Thursday by the Mississippi State Board of Education.
History Classes Still Mandatory
Even though the state test is being removed, students will still have to take and pass U.S. history classes to earn their diploma.
So, while there won’t be a final statewide test, students are still expected to learn the subject through regular class assessments and grades.
Why the Change Happened
Education officials said that removing the U.S. history test will reduce pressure on students and save money for the state.
Paula Vanderford, the chief accountability officer, explained that local schools might be given tools to create their own history tests if they wish to.
Many parents who supported the change said their children suffer from test anxiety, which affects their performance. Out of the total public comments received, 20 supported removing the test, and 16 were against it.
Opposition to the Decision
Not everyone agrees with the decision. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker and board member Mary Werner both said removing the test could weaken students’ knowledge of American history.
Werner added that the test was a way to ensure teachers were teaching the subject well. She expressed her disappointment after the vote.
What Tests Are Still Required?
Students will still need to pass state tests in algebra I, biology, and English language arts to graduate. These tests are required by law. The U.S. history test, however, was not legally required by the state or federal government, which is why it was easier to remove.
What This Means for Students and Teachers
According to Dr. Lance Evans, the state superintendent of education, the removal of this test will ease the stress on students, families, and teachers. He assured that learning U.S. history remains essential, and students will still have to complete the course successfully to graduate.
In simple terms, Mississippi is making graduation a little less stressful by cutting down on the number of mandatory state tests. Although students won’t take the U.S. history state exam anymore, they will still study the subject and must pass the class.
This move aims to balance academic standards with students’ well-being. Supporters believe it’s a smart way to reduce pressure, while critics fear it might lower the focus on history education. Only time will tell how this change will affect future graduates in the state.
