CCSSO Statement on U.S. Department of Education’s Announcement on Assessment and Accountability

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Washington, D.C. (February 22, 2021) – Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) Chief Executive Officer Carissa Moffat Miller released the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Education’s announcement on federal assessment and accountability requirements and flexibilities for the 2020-21 school year.

“State education leaders and CCSSO deeply value assessment as a tool to know where students are academically, identify inequities, and inform decision-making, including ensuring supports get to the students who need them.   

The COVID-19 pandemic and associated school building closures have presented logistical challenges to giving assessments, and how states collect student learning data may look different this year. We appreciate that the Department will provide flexibility on how to administer statewide assessments and modify accountability systems as state leaders manage the continuing effects of the global pandemic. In addition, we are pleased that the Department has committed to working with states that may need additional flexibilities

The U.S. Department of Education’s announcement today acknowledges the real, varied challenges that educators, students, and families are facing across the country. We thank the Biden Administration for working with state chiefs and CCSSO to craft a common-sense solution that supports state leaders in serving children and families during this challenging time.” 

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The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) is a nonpartisan, nationwide, nonprofit organization of public officials who head departments of elementary and secondary education in the states, the District of Columbia, the Department of Defense Education Activity, Bureau of Indian Education, and five U.S. extra-state jurisdictions. CCSSO provides leadership, advocacy, and technical assistance on major educational issues. The Council seeks member consensus on major educational issues and expresses their views to civic and professional organizations, federal agencies, Congress, and the public.


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