By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – The Missouri House initially approved legislation Wednesday that lowers the standards children must reached to be deemed proficient on standardized tests.
Missouri's current definition of "proficient" applies to students who actually perform ahead of their grade levels on the tests. Supporters say the change would make it easier to see how Missouri children compare with those in other states.
The bill would set benchmarks for proficiency in line with, but no higher than, what is used by the National Assessment of Educational Progress.
It needs another vote in the House to have final approval in that chamber.