Starting this fall, high school students in Mississippi will no longer need to pass a U.S. history test to graduate.
The Mississippi State Board of Education recently voted to remove this requirement. However, students are still required to study and pass U.S. history classes during high school.
Why the Test Was Removed
Paula Vanderford, the chief accountability officer of the state education department, said that removing the test could help the state save money.
She also mentioned that schools can create their own history tests using state-provided materials if they wish.
This decision was not made quickly. In April, the board opened the issue for public comments. They received 36 comments—20 supported removing the test, with many parents saying their children experienced test anxiety.
On the other hand, 16 comments opposed the change, saying the test helped show how important U.S. history is.
What Opponents Are Saying
Some leaders disagree with this decision. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker and board member Mary Werner co-wrote an editorial saying that learning about U.S. history is important for future generations.
Werner, who voted against removing the test, said she felt the test helped teachers stay responsible and focused on teaching the subject well.
Other Graduation Tests Still Required
Even though the U.S. history test is being removed, students still have to pass state tests in algebra I, biology, and English language arts to graduate. The U.S. history exam was the only test that was not required by state or federal law.
What This Means for Students
Dr. Lance Evans, the state superintendent of education, said that although the state test is gone, students will still have to pass U.S. history classes to graduate. He believes that removing the test will reduce stress for students, teachers, and families.
This change is part of a larger effort to make graduation requirements less stressful, while still keeping education strong. While opinions are divided, the board hopes this move will support students and educators in a more flexible learning environment.
In summary, Mississippi high school students will no longer be required to pass a state U.S. history test to graduate, starting in the 2025 school year.
The decision aims to reduce pressure on students and save the state money, though it has sparked debate. While the official test is gone, U.S. history classes remain part of the curriculum and must be completed successfully.
This step reflects a broader trend of reducing standardized testing while still focusing on core subjects like math, science, English, and history.
