May 25, 2021 | Buckner
CHICAGO – Due to the challenges of remote learning recent graduating high-school students have faced, state Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, advanced legislation that will make standardized admissions tests optional for aspiring college freshmen of Illinois Colleges and Universities. “The Covid-19 pandemic has affected students across the state differently. The remote learning protocols were put in place in good faith but some students faced at-home challenges that hindered their ability to receive the same quality of education that may have been given inside the classroom,” said Buckner. “Standardized testing doesn’t take into account these challenges. In a year where the school systems had to adjust to such an unforeseen global crisis, the admissions process should be adjusted as well.”
Buckner is supporting House Bill 226, which would create the Fair Admissions Act, requiring all public universities and community colleges to adopt a “Test-optional admission policy” for Illinois residents. Starting in 2022, prospective students will not be required to submit ACT or SAT scores, but will still have the option to submit them while completing the college admissions process. “Standardized testing isn’t always the best way to assess students’ capabilities and is not necessarily a reflection of their potential once they are in the college environment,” said Buckner. “We cannot punish disadvantaged students who may not have had access to the necessary resources to make remote learning an effective alternative to in-class learning.”
House Bill 226 passed the Illinois House of Representatives with strong bi-partisan support and is now up for consideration in the Illinois State Senate.
