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Broward students tell school board classroom tests feel more useful than statewide exams and press for changes to testing, dress code and counseling
Summary
Student advisors and more than 20 students told the Broward County School Board that classroom assessments feel more helpful and less stressful than statewide tests, asked for clearer access to advanced courses and counseling, and urged adjustments to dress‑code enforcement and morning security procedures.
Students from middle and high schools across Broward County told the School Board on Jan. 13 that classroom assessments are generally more useful than statewide tests and that testing frequency, unclear purpose and enforcement of accommodations cause stress.
"I think the most helpful would probably be world languages because you're learning a different language," said one student, while others repeatedly described classroom tests as "personalized" and aligned with what teachers have taught. Multiple students said statewide assessments such as the FAST and end‑of‑course exams can feel overwhelming because teachers have limited time to cover all tested material.
The student advisors, who were selected from about 140 applicants districtwide, framed three workshop topics — academic experience; school climate and student life; and resource access — and asked students to focus remarks on clear examples and solutions. Students who use IEP accommodations said those supports are not always enforced during timed district or statewide assessments, which can compound anxiety.
On school climate, students reported mixed experiences with dress‑code enforcement. Some said uniform policies are practical; others described uneven enforcement that commonly affects female students. "When you dress, when you get ready and dressed in the morning a certain way, it puts you in a mindset of what you're going to be doing for the rest of your day," a board member told students in response, noting the policy intent.
Students also asked the board to clarify cell‑phone rules and to ensure phones are permitted at lunch in schools where that change has been approved. Many described morning security checks and metal detectors as reassuring but said long lines and inconsistent priority accommodations — for example, for students with medical conditions like scoliosis — can cause tardies and stress.
On resource access, students praised counseling and activity buses but raised concerns about counselor availability, meal quality and the cost of some cafeteria options. One student said they believed a school meal caused food poisoning and urged stronger food‑safety oversight. Several students recommended more career‑oriented electives and clearer pathways into advanced programs such as AP and ACE.
District leaders acknowledged the feedback and described several follow‑ups. Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn and Chief Information Officer Trey Davis said a phased laptop/device refresh and take‑home option are under way; the district plans an assessment workshop to review the number and purpose of district assessments. Board members and staff asked students to participate in surveys, school‑level roundtables and pilot projects to expand student voice.
The board said it would compile an after‑action report summarizing student input and next steps, and staff committed to follow up on counseling access, device rollout timelines and security‑line procedures.
The board session closed with committee reports and a wider board discussion about district staffing and communications.
