Teachers prepare for new test that takes place of FCAT

Test will count for 2015-16 school year

MIAMI – School may be out for the summer, but teachers, principals and even the superintendent are all heading back to class to study for a new test.

The new Florida Standards Assessments are taking over for the much-debated Florida's Comprehensive Assessment Test next school year.

"I think it's something they can apply more easily to their future," said Raquelle Santiago Argote, a Miami-Dade County middle school teacher.

Wednesday's workshop took place at Miami Jackson Senior High School. Educators and administrators expressed their excitement, but the superintendent said he still has his reservations.

"If the state of Florida does not field test the exam in our state with Florida students, I think it is reckless and irresponsible to move forward with the exam this year,"said Alberto Carvahlo.

The first round of testing will be more about finding a baseline of where all the schools are. But come the 2015-16 school year, like the FCAT, the district, teachers and students will be held accountable for their scores.

"Why rush?" said Carvahlo. "There's an opportunity to continue with existing assessments providing a transition less harmful to students and teachers."