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USDB committee moves student assessment policy to align with state statute
Summary
The USDB standing committee approved a revised student assessment policy on first reading to align USDB practice with Utah statute 53-8-404 requiring applicable statewide assessments; staff noted ongoing accessibility challenges for some students.
The USDB standing committee voted Nov. 10 to approve on first reading a revised student assessment policy that brings the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind into alignment with Utah Code 53-8-404, which requires the LEA to administer applicable statewide assessments.
Superintendent Nelson told the committee the existing policy language incorrectly suggested USDB was not subject to statewide assessments. "I was not aware that there were any exclusions to that," Nelson said after reviewing the policy references. Associate superintendents said in practice USDB has been administering statewide assessments when possible and that parents retain an option to opt out.
Dr. Michelle Tanner said accessibility remains an ongoing concern, especially for students with severe vision loss or unique communication needs. "Accessibility is always going to be an issue," she said, adding the State Board has worked to make assessments accessible on campus and in outreach settings.
Member Randy Booth moved the policy forward; the committee approved it on first reading and forwarded it to the full board for second and final reading.
What's next: Staff will continue evaluating assessment accessibility and implement the updated policy pending final board approval.
