APS initiates investigation into state CRCT test erasure findings

Atlanta Public Schools has launched an investigation into the findings of the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement’s analysis of Criterion-Referenced Competency Test (CRCT) answer sheets for the 2008-2009 school year, which indicate that a large number of district schools experienced a high frequency of erasures in comparison with other school districts around the state.

APS is working closely with state officials to determine the root cause for this finding involving district schools.  At the state’s request, the district will conduct a thorough and detailed review and analysis of CRCT test administration and procedures at the schools that experienced a higher than average frequency of answer sheet erasures on last year’s test.  The district will also commission an independent review and analysis.

APS agrees with the state and independent testing experts that a larger than average number of erasures warrants further investigation, although erasure frequency in and of itself does not constitute evidence of testing irregularities in the absence of other factors.

Prior to the administration of the CRCT, students are specifically instructed to thoroughly review their answers and erase or change them as appropriate.

In the event the investigations uncover testing irregularities, APS will take immediate action.