Reading Test Update (April 26, 2001)

1. Who will be affected?

According to the statute, anyone who applies for an original elementary license after July 1, 2001 must pass the new Reading test (Reading Specialist 0300) adopted by the Division of Professional Standards (DPS). 2. Which licenses will be affected? This will apply to any original elementary license, K-3, 1-6, as well as K-6. It does not apply to a Reading Minor or a secondary license. 3. What is the status of the test adoption activity? The Reading Specialist Test (0300) was identified as the best available instrument to address the statute. The Standard-Setting Panel to establish the Indiana Qualifying Score met on January 10, 2001. There was a presentation to the Board at its March 21, 2001 meeting. A Public Hearing on the qualifying scores was held April 25, 2001 at 1:00 p.m. 4. When will the qualifying score be known? The qualifying score is 370. This score was determined by the standard-setting activity and accounts for the fact that some portions of the Reading Specialist Test are not relevant to the beginning elementary teacher. The test would be available for the regular June 23, 2001 test date. 5. What if a person will complete license requirements after July 1, 2001? Anyone who wants an original elementary license will have to successfully complete the reading test requirement before receiving an Indiana Standard License.