Vitti: There are benefits to using Common Core test

Though Florida is adopting common core standards, the replacement for the FCAT test will be created solely for Florida.

Duval Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti tells us there are economic benefits to using the same test as other states.

He says by using the same test, Florida can directly compare how its students are performing versus other states.

“And be demonstrating that our kids are doing better, it leads to more economic opportunities with businesses coming to Florida, investing in Florida and staying in Florida,” Vitti says.  “It also means that I think more kids would be going to college, and Florida could market that throughout the country.”

Florida lawmakers agreed to a $220 million contract to have a test created based on the new “Florida standards.”  Though the state has adopted the Common Core standards, the “Florida standards” are tailored toward the state.

Vitti says the test will make it difficult to compare Florida to other states.  Still, he’s happy that the state is transitioning to Common Core standards, as he thinks it’s a positive change for students.

“It’ll lead to more engagement,” he says.  “I think it will challenge them and inspire them a bit more intellectually.”

Vitti says the new test will be more of a challenge than the FCAT.  He says students are required to apply more information.  There are fewer multiple choice questions, short and extended responses, and more interactions with texts.