Maryland students can avoid taking some high-stakes end-of-course tests as long as they post high scores on Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate exams in the same subjects, state schools Superintendent Nancy S. Grasmick announced.
The move late last month makes Maryland one of a growing number of states, including New York and Virginia, that offer similar alternatives to high school graduation tests. Starting in 2009, all students in Maryland will have to pass the high school assessments to graduate.
Maryland gives high school end-of-course exams in English, biology, algebra, and government. To avoid taking the tests, students would have to achieve a score of 3 or higher (out of a possible 5) on the AP exam and reach set cutoff scores on the IB exams as well.
