Mississippi Removes U.S. History Graduation Exam

The Mississippi State Board of Education voted to eliminate the statewide U.S. History assessment as a graduation requirement starting in the 2025-2026 school year. Students will still be required to take and pass the U.S. History course, but the test itself is no longer mandatory, as it was not required by state or federal law. State assessments in Algebra I, Biology, and English Language Arts will remain graduation requirements. The decision followed a public comment period, with supporters citing reduced test anxiety and opponents raising concerns about the value of U.S. history education. Education officials stated that the move aims to reduce the testing burden and could result in cost savings for the state. Districts retain the option to develop their own U.S. History assessments if desired.