CSAP Will Be Replaced

DENVER- It’sthe test that’s been standard for years, but we’ve confirmed the CSAPS are out. On Thursday the CO State Board of Education revamped its education standards for the first time in fifteen years. The state summarizes the changes in three words:

“Fewer, clearer and higher,” says board member Peggy Littleton.

She says the idea is to relate what’s taught in the classroom to life in the 21st century.

“Clearly we’re also moving towards something where we’ll actually look at competency,” she says.

And the CSAP test isn’t doing that well enough according to educators.

“This was long overdue,” says Mike Poore, Deputy Superintendent for Colorado Spring’s District 11. “I think there will be some substantial changes and they’ll be a group of people working on it. This isn’t going to happen overnight.”

There will be a series of meetings across the state next year to figure out just how to change the test. Parents and residents are welcome to weigh in with their ideas.

“There’s not going to be anybody left out of this process,” says Littleton.”Everybody’s voice will be clearly heard.”

We wanted to know—will changes call for an expensive overhaul to current curriculums?

“I don’t think it will be a huge financial outlay for districts, maybe teachers just teaching a little bit differently,” Littleton says.

“I think our staff will adapt and move pretty quickly,” says Poore.