Release:

Gov. Kemp Issues Statement on Biden Administration Waiver Decision

Atlanta, GA – Governor Brian P. Kemp issued a statement regarding the Biden Administration’s decision to deny a waiver petitioning the federal government to waive testing requirements in light of the health crisis.

“In a year when teachers and students have faced unprecedented challenges, it is ridiculous to expect them to take federally mandated standardized tests in the classroom,” said Governor Kemp. “Many students have struggled to make the transition to virtual learning, while our heroic teachers have worked tirelessly to adapt to a changing educational landscape. Just as the rest of the world has been forced to adapt to a new normal, we cannot expect our educators or students to take tests the same way that they did before the pandemic.

“Since taking office, I have committed to putting Georgia’s students and teachers first and making sure they have the tools to succeed. High-stakes, federally mandated testing has proven to be an obstacle to progress even before COVID-19. I am disappointed in the Biden Administration’s decision and will continue to work with State School Superintendent Richard Woods and leaders in education to lessen the burden on teachers and students in Georgia’s classrooms.”