According to a press release notification received today from the Georgia Department of Education, due to the COVID-19 outbreak and the closure of many public schools, State Superintendent Richard Woods is suspending the following until further notice:

• State assessment window/administration (including Georgia Milestones End-of-Grade and End-of-Course assessments, the Georgia Alternate Assessment/GAA 2.0, and all other required testing),
• Teacher and leader evaluation (TKES/LKES) requirements and reporting, and
• State-level attendance-related consequences (including CCRPI, TKES/LKES, School Climate Star Rating, and make-up day requirements).

Also, at the State Board of Education meeting on March 27 (which will be conducted via teleconference), Superintendent Woods will recommend the approval of a package of waivers, including suspension of the 20% course grade requirement for the Georgia Milestones End-of-Course assessments.

Due to the ever-evolving situation, the Georgia Department of Education will seek the maximum authority and waivers afforded by the U.S. Department of Education and other federal agencies. The most recent guidance from the U.S. Department of Education regarding assessment and accountability during the COVID-19 outbreak is here for your review.