California could replace STAR with CCSS-aligned assessment

Currently, California relies on the STAR Testing program to analyze students' progress. However, this may soon change when the state fully implements the Common Core State Standards in the 2013-2014 school year, as educators and school officials strive to bring more meaning to standardized testing.

Recently, the state Assembly voted to pass Assembly Bill 484, which would establish the California Measurement of Academic Performance and Progress for the 21st Century, The Daily Independent reported. As part of this bill, some parts of the California STAR Testing program would be suspended in the 2013-2014 academic year, until new computer-based, CCSS-aligned assessments are created.

"It is time that we stop testing students using antiquated 'fill in the bubble' forms, and begin to align our assessment methods with standards that will better prepare students for college and careers," Assemblymember Susan Bonilla, author of the bill, said in a statement.

Still, opponents to the bill are concerned that by suspending certain parts of the California STAR Testing program, educators will face a lack of knowledge about student performance, the SI&A Cabinet Report states.

The bill will now be sent to the Senate for further review.