Oklahoma Suspends Statewide Testing Overhaul Plans, Continues Standardized Tests

Oklahoma will continue its current statewide standardized testing this school year, reversing former State Superintendent Ryan Walters' plan to overhaul the testing system. Walters had proposed eliminating traditional math and reading tests in favor of multiple benchmark assessments throughout the year, but his administration never secured federal approval required under the Every Student Succeeds Act. State Superintendent Lindel Fields advised school districts to proceed with the existing spring assessments as usual while exploring future testing options in discussions with the U.S. Department of Education. Walters' abrupt testing changes and claims of near approval reportedly frustrated federal officials and contributed to his exclusion from a federal education visit and eventual resignation. Though Fields has halted immediate changes, he has expressed interest in pursuing innovative assessment methods in the future. This clarification follows a series of reversals by Fields after taking office, including undoing other controversial actions by Walters.