Senator Martins Statement on Education Department Not Renewing Pearson Testing Contract

     “By not renewing the state’s contract with Pearson and committing to an inclusive policy of active teacher participation in test preparation, the State Education Department has taken a positive step forward for the benefit of students, parents and educators throughout New York. 

     The failures of the Common Core rollout are well documented; students forced to take tests which are way above their grade level, teachers excluded from the development process, and exams being used to data mine rather than as an effective educational tool. 

     More important than just changing vendors, the State Education Commissioner and Board of Regents Chancellor have pledged that teachers will be included in every step of the development process of these exams.

     Active teacher participation in developing questions for the students that they teach is a commonsense step that was lacking over the last few years. It’s also one that parents, educators, and legislators have been demanding. It’s great to see that SED and the Board of Regents are listening, and acting.”