Reed Backs Parents who Want to Opt-Out Their Children from Taking Standardized Tests

Rep. Tom Reed (R-Corning)

WASHINGTON – Congressman Tom Reed (R-Corning, NY 23) has signed off on a letter to the U.S. Department of Education reasserting parents and students’ right to opt-out of high stakes federal testing.

Reed is one of a handful of lawmakers who’ve signed off on the letter, with only eighteen other members of congress adding their name. In a release sent out over the weekend, he said he signed the letter because he feels the process of educating our kids should be left up to parents, local governments and teachers, not Washington bureaucrats.

The move comes after the Department of Education sent a letter to states warning of financial penalties for states and school districts that fail to meet certain testing targets.

The recently passed Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which Reed supported, empowers parents and gives states increased flexibility in student opt-out. Reed’s letter clarifies congressional intent, including the expectation that the Department of Education support states in implementing ESSA.