Republicans Want to Reduce Va. Standardized Testing

House Republicans want to reduce how many standardized tests Virginia's public school students take.

Speaking to reporters Tuesday at the Capitol, Republicans said reducing the number of state Standards of Learning exams given to students from 34 to 26 is a key part of their education agenda this legislative session.

Loudon Del. Tag Greason says students are tested too often and too much time is spent teaching test-taking skills rather than critical thinking.

Efforts to reduce the number of standardized tests are likely to be met with broad support. New Gov. Terry McAuliffe, a Democrat, has signaled his desire for fewer tests.

Majority Leader Kirk Cox of Colonial Heights says he is glad McAuliffe was supportive, and it is time to get started on enacting the changes.