By WJBC Staff
SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois House approved a bill Tuesday that would protect students and their schools from being “negatively impacted” if they choose not to take state assessment tests.
The law, which was approved by a 64-47 vote, would allow students to opt out of a test if they have a request in writing from a parent or guardian.
Chicago Public Schools initially refused to implement new standardized tests in schools this year. CPS ultimately administered the tests after the Illinois State Board of Education threatened to withhold funding.
The exams are based on Common Core standards that are under a national debate about their benefit.
Gov. Bruce Rauner’s education secretary warns the legislation could cost Illinois $1 billion a year in federal aid.
