In a recent development in public education, the Oregon Department of Education has taken the controversial step of eliminating the requirement for students to possess basic reading, writing, and math skills in order to obtain a high school diploma.
Prior to the enactment of Senate Bill 744 during Oregon’s 2021 legislative session, the state’s criteria for high school graduation, known as the “Assessment of Essential Skills,” mandated that students be capable of “reading and comprehending a variety of text, writing clearly and accurately,” and “applying mathematics in a variety of settings.”
However, in light of the disruptions caused by COVID-19-related school closures, Senate Bill 744 was suspended throughout the 2023-24 school year. Last month, the Oregon State Board of Education unanimously voted to further extend this suspension through the 2027-28 school year.