Hundreds of high school sophomores in San Diego Unified are gearing up to take the California High School Exit Exam. It's the first time 10th graders are taking the high-stakes test. KPBS reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.
High school students have to pass the state's exit exam in order to get a diploma. They have six chances to take the test until the graduate.
Sophomores get their first crack at the exam next Tuesday. Teachers have been handing out practice tests and offering exit exam prep classes after-school and on Saturdays so teens are well prepared.
The district's Karen Bachoffer says more and more sophomores are passing the test, also known as the “CASEY” the first time they sit down and take it.
Bachoffer : Last year 10th graders did a bit better than the 10th grades the year before. Given the fact that everyone is much more aware of the CASHEE and we’re using the practice CASHEE, we’re hoping that this year they are going to do better still.
This test is also important for the district because it must show high school students are making progress every year under the federal No Child Left Behind Act.
Ana Tintocalis, KPBS News.
