Michigan Lawmakers Push Bipartisan Plan to Reduce School Testing
Proposed legislation seeks to cut back on mandatory exams like SAT and ACT while improving academic achievement across the state.
Despite the current waiting period for schools across Michigan to learn how much funding they will receive from the state budget, a new debate has emerged over mandatory testing.
A Bipartisan Push for Fewer Tests
Representative Matt Koleszar (Democrat–Plymouth) has introduced bipartisan legislation to reduce the number of required tests from kindergarten through 12th grade. The proposal also includes possible changes to college entrance exams such as the SAT and ACT.
Koleszar explained that the goal is not to eliminate testing, but to ensure exams are meaningful:“Reducing tests has been discussed for years. All we want is to make sure testing is appropriate.”
He added that while there is room for academic improvement in Michigan, new solutions are necessary. He pointed to the essay portion of the SAT, which only four states nationwide currently use—including Michigan.
Republican Support for Change
Republican Senator Joe Bellino (Monroe) also expressed support for reform:“Republicans have always believed we need testing, but M-STEP isn’t the answer. It’s basically ineffective. The better option is the NWEA test, which actually helps diagnose where students are struggling.”
This rare bipartisan consensus suggests the legislation may move forward.
Parents and Students Share Concerns
Parents are also weighing in. A mother from Saline questioned whether standardized tests truly reflect student ability:“If my child has a bad day and performs poorly, does that really show what they’re capable of? I don’t think so.”
Students share similar frustrations. A recent high school graduate, now at the University of Michigan–Dearborn, recalled his own struggles:“I always felt the tests were stressful. I had to wake up way too early for the SAT, and I didn’t do well because I’m not a morning person.”
What’s Next?
The proposed changes will be reviewed by a House committee later this month, with a full House vote expected to follow. If passed, Michigan could see a significant shift in how testing shapes its K–12 education system.
