Since 1996, CPS has raised the cut-off score several times. Under the new policy, grades, attendance and teacher recommendations can outweigh the test scores. OCR found enough evidence to begin an investigation which ultimately led to significant changes in the policy. The Chicago decision could benefit parents in other states who have filed complaints. If they do not pass the retest, they may still be promoted if their overall school record or a parent-requested review of their progress shows that the student has the knowledge and skills to go on to the next grade.
Concerns remain, however.
The cutoff scores in other grades have similar impacts. If this means alignment with ITBS scores, then grades will cease to be an independent measure of student achievement. Switching from a test-score only policy to a mix of test scores and other information will not solve that problem.