This test assesses only basic skills and not the rest of the curriculum. Students must pass it to graduate. Except for the voluntary CbyE, all students are tested. The NRT is used as one of several indicators of school status and improvement efforts, and for individuals as one part of determining admission to gifted and talented programs. It is intended to guide curriculum and instruction, but no studies have been done on the consequences.
Students have multiple opportunities to take the test, including two times after leaving school.
It is not intended to guide curriculum, but schools may adapt curricula to help ensure students pass the test. Teachers and administrators join in writing items and selecting examples. It will be based on the state standards. The project is contingent on available funds. The state should drop the NRT, eliminate the high school graduation requirement and shift to a primarily performance-based system, assessing in a few grades based on the state standards.