Oklahoma's Bold Move to Replace Statewide Tests with District-Chosen Assessments
Oklahoma is making a significant shift in its approach to standardized testing, marking a departure from long-standing state and federal policies. The state’s top education official, Ryan Walters, announced that the administration will not administer statewide reading and math tests this school year. Instead, the plan involves collecting data from benchmark assessments chosen and purchased by individual school districts from private vendors. If approved, Oklahoma would become the first state in the nation to replace its standardized exams with a system of district-selected tests.
This proposal requires approval from the U.S. Department of Education. Walters expressed confidence that the Trump administration would quickly approve the idea, which is currently open for public comment until September 8 before the final request is submitted.
“I was elected to make changes, serious changes,” Walters said, emphasizing his commitment to transforming an education system he claims has failed students. He believes the current system does not meet the needs of Oklahoma’s children and that the proposed changes reflect what voters have demanded.
If the plan is approved, it could set a precedent for other states to follow. Dale Chu, a school policy expert and senior visiting fellow at the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, noted that this move could encourage other states to explore similar alternatives. For example, Texas is also considering replacing its state testing system.
Under federal law, every state must test students in reading and math from grades 3-8 and once in high school. These tests are designed to ensure schools provide quality, equitable education and to inform families about their children's academic progress. Oklahoma law also mandates that the state Board of Education adopts a statewide assessment system compliant with federal regulations.
However, Walters argues that the decision to change the testing system falls within the authority of the Oklahoma State Department of Education. He stated that no vote from the state board is necessary, as the department has already taken the required steps to implement the change.
For years, Oklahoma’s state tests have shown a majority of students performing below grade level. Even after the state lowered the standard for meeting grade-level targets in reading and math, test scores remained low. This year, scores are expected to decline further after the state raised performance expectations.
Walters insists that eliminating the tests is not about avoiding accountability. Instead, he believes benchmark assessments—used by many districts alongside annual state tests—can offer more timely and useful data. These assessments are taken multiple times a year and provide up-to-date information on student progress. Their scores are comparable to those of students in other states who take the same exams.
However, there are concerns about the trade-offs involved. Chu pointed out that benchmark assessments are not aligned with Oklahoma Academic Standards, which dictate what topics schools must teach. This lack of alignment could affect the consistency and comparability of student performance across districts.
Maria D’Brot, a former state testing officer, highlighted the complexity of implementing a district-based system. She warned that using multiple testing vendors could create inconsistencies between districts. Issues around fairness might arise if students don’t have equal access to testing formats or if students with disabilities receive different accommodations.
“The success of Oklahoma’s transition will depend on embedding strong psychometric infrastructure, disciplined operations, and fairness safeguards from the outset,” D’Brot said. “Without these, the accountability system risks losing its credibility.”
Walters claims the state has the necessary infrastructure in place to manage the change. He assured that scores from different benchmark tests will be compared fairly. However, the proposal has drawn skepticism from both political parties.
Nellie Tayloe Sanders, education secretary under Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt, expressed concern that the plan lacks a clear roadmap. She emphasized the need for collaboration to ensure students receive the skills they need for the future.
State lawmakers also want input. Rep. Dell Kerbs, chair of the House Education Oversight Committee, called for continued collaboration to ensure any changes align with state law and provide actionable information on student readiness for college and careers.
Senate Minority Leader Julia Kirt criticized the timing of Walters’ announcement, calling it “reckless.” Many districts are already preparing for the start of the school year, and some have already welcomed students back.
While there is agreement that the current system is flawed, many stakeholders believe the transition must be carefully planned. As Oklahoma moves forward with this bold experiment, the focus remains on ensuring fairness, consistency, and meaningful data for students, families, and educators.