MSP + HSPE = WCAP: Dorn’s WASL proposal

If our new Superintendent of Public Instruction, Randy Dorn, gets his way, the Washington Assessment of Student Learning (or WASL) will morph into what he calls the Washington Comprehensive Assessment Program (WCAP) which will consist of two tests: the Measurements of Student Progress (MSP) for grades 3-8 and the High School Proficiency Exam (HSPE).

You can check out the details of his proposal for yourself here and here. Essentially Dorn wants to make the tests shorter, less expensive and more responsive by changing the format and increasing use of technology. His plan would make the new tests available to schools by 2010, with full implementation by 2012. Passing the HSPE would remain a graduation requirement.

Many aspects of Dorn's proposal closely mirror the work of the legislative work group that looked at ways to improve the WASL.

Rep. Pat Sullivan served on that work group and his reaction to Dorn's proposal can be heard here.

UPDATE:
TVW just posted Dorn's press conference online.