Academic Standards Review Bill Advances

Kentucky Senate Republicans have advanced a sweeping education bill aimed at creating a new review structure for state academic standards.

 

The measure cleared the Senate Education Committee Thursday.

 

The bill is a top priority of Senate Republicans but was opposed by the panel's Democratic members.

 

The bill would create a review of academic standards and assessments every six years for possible revision or replacement. Panels of educators would make suggestions to a committee mostly made up of people appointed by the governor and legislative leaders. Final recommendations would go to the state Board of Education.

 

Supporters say the goal is to relieve overburdened teachers so they can focus on teaching.

 

Democratic Sen. Gerald Neal says more input is needed from educators before making such a "sea change'' in education policy.