Bill would let Arizona parents opt children out of testing

PHOENIX (AP) — A Republican lawmaker and high school teacher has introduced a measure that would allow Arizona parents to opt their children out of statewide assessments.

State superintendent of Public Instruction Diane Douglas and Acklerley say parents should have the right to make decisions they feel are in the best interest of their children.

The test is designed to measure student progress and helps hold schools accountable at the state and federal level.

A second measure by Rep. Mark Finchem, R-Oro Valley, would require a parent's written consent to give tests that ask students for psychological or personal information including whether or not they own guns or ammunition, their religious practices or political affiliation.