Using the NRT only on a sampling basis in a few grades is reasonable. For schools, the new accountability program appears also to rely too heavily on testing. Districts must be actively discouraged from using tests as a grade-promotion hurdle. A bias review committee reflective of the state s demographics reviews test items and other materials. Statistical analyses are also evaluated.
Tests use culturally diverse materials in the items and prompts.
Reports include subgroup performance by gender and ethnicity. North Carolina s policy is to include students with special needs in the statewide testing and accountability programs as early as possible. IEP or LEP students may be exempt from testing as dictated by their IEP or written accommodation plan. LEP students may be exempt for a maximum of two years. Students in both of these categories must pass the competency tests in order to receive a state diploma.