US Education Department to give up to $350M to states that adopt new tests

US Education Department to give $350M to states

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Education is looking to hand out up to $350 million to states willing to revamp how they test students.

The money is designed to encourage states to develop standardized tests that accurately measure how much a child has learned each year and ensure the student is ready for college or a career after high school.

Education Secretary Arne Duncan said Tuesday the tests must be designed to accurately depict what students know and can do. The criteria for the grants were created after 10 public meetings held across the country since last year.

The money is part of the $4.35 billion “Race to the Top” grant competition, which encourages states to embrace innovative programs to improve student achievement and turnaround low-performing schools.