From the Office of the Secretary of Education: The 2011-2012 State Budget proposal presented by Governor Corbett includes many difficult decisions to address a significant budget shortfall. While the PDE remains committed to the new system of high school graduation requirements that took effect just over one year ago, fiscal constraints will delay implementation of certain provisions, including the use of Keystone Exams during the 2011-2012 school year.                                                                                                                           

The Governor’s proposal reflects a one-year pause in the development and implementation of Keystone Exams. It is important to note that this delay will not adversely impact students. Fortunately, in developing this initiative the State Board of Education anticipated that fiscal challenges might require course corrections in implementation of the reform and included a waiver provision to ensure that no student is negatively affected by a delay in implementation. The additional time also will allow districts to make certain that local curriculum is fully aligned with the content assessed by Keystones and to provide associated professional development.

PDE’s work on other components of the new high school graduation requirements – including development of the project-based alternative assessments – will continue to move ahead. Additionally, the voluntary model curriculum, classroom diagnostic tools and other SAS resources – key components of the broader reform – will continue to serve students and schools during 2011-2012.

Below is a Frequently Asked Questions document that responds to potential questions surrounding the implementation of Keystone Exams. You may continue to use the graduation requirements resource account – ra-gradreq@state.pa.us – to raise any questions or concerns.   

Keystone Exams FAQs

1.         Is the PDE still going to implement the new system of high school graduation requirements?

Yes; however, fiscal constraints will delay implementation of certain provisions, including the use of Keystone Exams during the 2011-2012 school year.

2.             Why the delay?

The delay is a result of a combination of factors including the $20 million cost anticipated for 2011-12. In addition these exams are rigorous and

3.             When will the specific Keystone Exams be available?

During 2012-2013, the following exams will be available: Literature, English Composition, Algebra I and Biology. A Social Studies Keystone will be field tested in 2012-2013 for use during 2013-2014.

4.             When will the Keystone Exams replace the grade 11 PSSAs?

The PSSA will continue through 2012-2013.   PDE expects the Keystones to be approved and in use for AYP during 2013-2014. This timeline aligns precisely with the transition plan for the newly-adopted Pennsylvania Common Core Standards.

5.             Will PDE still provide supports to districts?

Yes. The Voluntary Model Curriculum, Classroom Diagnostic Tools (CDT) and other SAS resources will not be impacted by the one-year delay in Keystone Exam development and administration.  

6.             How will this change in the schedule impact students in the Classes of 2015, 2016, and beyond?

The State Board’s rulemaking provides adequate flexibility in the language of Chapter 4 Regulations: “Students who will graduate in the 2014-2015 school year or thereafter, who successfully complete courses…for which Keystone Exams or local validated assessments were not available at the time the course was completed, shall be deemed proficient for purposes of this section.”
Essentially, these students are exempt from the state proficiency requirement. Local district requirements will not be impacted.

7.             Is there a guarantee of funding for Keystones to continue in 2012-2013?

The Keystone Exams create an opportunity for consistency in the rigor of requirements for all students in Pennsylvania public high schools prior to graduation therefore, it is imperative that we continue with this effort. PDE remains committed to the Keystone program and expect it to continue subject to annual funding.

8.       Should School Districts continue, as planned, to participate in the spring 2011 Keystone Exam testing program?

Yes. It is important to participate for two reasons.   First, the data will be used to set the cut scores for the performance levels. Second, districts will receive useful Keystone Exam results for the students who participate.