The only organization dedicated solely to helping state boards advance equity and excellence in public education.


States vary in how they respond to parents’ requests to opt children out of standardized testing. These responses fall loosely into four categories: most states prohibit opt outs, others permit them, still others differentiate between opt outs and refusals or permit opt outs with constraints, and some let local districts devise their own policies. This Policy Update compiles information on each state’s response and links to guidance documents.


Opt Out Policies by State

Lorenzo_opt out guidance table



Related Content



Featured Items

Cropped shot of elementary school children using a tablet in class i

Technology in Education

Savvy state leaders will set their sights on ways to broaden access to technology’s benefits, solve problems confronting educators, and protect students against the risks of misuse.
Young black man speaking on panel. Image credit: iStock i

Strengthening Student Engagement and Adult Support

Many state boards of education reserve a seat at the board table for students. But representation is only the first step. Students need to be proactive and receive mentorship to be effective in their state board roles.
Photo of Louisville, Kentucky at sunset

Annual Conference 2024

Registration is now open for this year's Annual Conference, October 23-25, in Louisville, Kentucky. Join us!

Upcoming Events

From the States