Increase College and Career Readiness: New Mexico

In Spring 2023, all 11th grade students in New Mexico public schools will participate in the digital SAT^® during the school day as part of the state's federally required testing program. This is a significant change for the state, as it marks the first time that the SAT^® will be administered as part of the state's testing program.

The decision to administer the SAT^® to all 11th grade students is in line with the state's efforts to increase college and career readiness among its students. The SAT^® is widely recognized by colleges and universities as a measure of college readiness, and by administering the test to all 11th grade students, the state aims to provide students with an opportunity to demonstrate their readiness for college and to identify areas where they may need additional support.

It's important to note that the decision to administer the SAT^® to all 11th grade students in New Mexico public schools is in compliance with the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) which requires states to administer a college entrance examination at least once during high school to all students. 

This is a requirement that many states are fulfilling by administering the SAT^® for the following reasons: 

• Is a widely-used and accepted college entrance exam
• Meets ESSA's requirement
• Provides students with a test that is familiar and well-regarded by colleges and universities
• Makes the college application process less stressful for the students 
• Helps with college readiness because the students will be familiar with the format of the test and the types of questions that will be asked

It's worth noting that the test will be provided to students at no cost and that students who take the alternate assessment based upon an Individualized Education Program (IEP) will not be required to take the SAT^®. 

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a document: 

• That outlines the specific educational needs of a student with a disability
• That describes the services and supports provided to help the student succeed in school
• Which is developed for students who have been identified as having a disability and who are eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

The alternate assessment is typically less complex and more accessible than the regular state assessment, and it may include accommodations such as:

• Braille or large print materials
• Audio recording
• Extra time to complete the test
• Additional assistance
• Using a computer to complete the test

In summary, the decision to administer the SAT^® to all 11th grade students in New Mexico public schools is an important step forward in the state's efforts to increase college and career readiness among its students. By providing all students with an opportunity to take the test, the state aims to identify areas where students may need additional support and to provide them with the resources they need to succeed in college and in their future careers.