Some States Get to Delay Using Tests in Teacher Evaluations

The U.S. Department of Education will allow some states that have gotten waivers from pieces of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act to postpone using student growth on state tests as a factor in personnel decisions for up to one additional year —until the 2016-17 school year.

States would have to make their case to Education Secretary Arne Duncan for the new flexibility, and the Department will approve the plans on a case-by-case basis—so no blanket waivers for everyone.

In making their case for the wiggle room, states would have to show that they have a "robust" plan in place for making sure teachers are well-versed in new standards and assessments.