Pearson Releases Incorrect Test Scores in Prince William County

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During the 2012-2013 school year, Pearson Company, the largest developer of standardized tests, submitted incorrect test results in some of Virginia’s schools, reports The Bristow Beat. Similar errors took place in New York City. Pearson made the error by determining the students’ performance level on the VAAP (Virginia Alternate Assessment Program) incorrectly. This means that they correctly graded the tests, but there was an error when the scores were converted into the performance levels that students receive. These performance levels are what determine whether a student passes or fails. This means that some students were told they had passed, when in fact they didn't. The incorrect scores affected more than 4,400 students across Virginia. In July, students and their parents received these incorrect SOL scores. Pearson has sent out new test scores, as well as apology letters, to students and parents. Pearson said that they were sorry for the inconvenience for students, parents, schools, and school districts. This was a bad mistake, but hopefully it won’t happen again. Pearson says they understand it is important to have accurate test results, and they will begin working harder to make changes. The Virginia Department of Education has given Pearson a second chance, and they are determined to do things right next time.

-Dylan Crigger