The National Institute of Education's hearings on minimum competency testing sought to educate the public about both sides of the issue. This article summarizes the ground rules for the hearings and the five points of inquiry debated. (WD)

The imposition of minimum competency testing in high schools must be seen in a social and political context. Since many minority students have received an inferior education, minimum competency tests may be seen as a means of preventing these students from receiving their high school diplomas. (Author/RLV)

Despite demonstrated success of a graduation competency testing policy in Tatnall County (Georgia), a judge ruled that the policy violated due process because the school district could not show that the items on the test were actually taught in the schools. (WD)

Outlines recent court cases related to schools concerning such things as tax exempt status for private schools, minimum competency testing as a graduation requirement, religious groups meeting in schools, and racial discrimination when rehiring teachers who were laid off. (JM)

States that fail to increase assistance to students unable to pass competency exams may be doing so at their legal peril as both the Equal Protection Clause and Title VII seem to require such assistance. Available from Human Rights, 1155 E. 60th St., Chicago, IL 60637. (Author/IRT)

The authors critique legal arguments which have been used by attorneys, especially Merle S. McClung of the Center for Law and Education, in opposing minimum competency testing programs in the schools. The arguments mainly concern the 14th Amendment, racial discrimination, and the denial of due process. (SJL)

One of the major concerns of the California school district represented in this case study centered on the possible legal problems associated with minimum competency testing (MCT). The responses of the district to the California law regarding MCT, and to six potential problem areas, are documented. (LC)

Competency-based education programs could raise three kinds of legal issues: claims under the due process clause, claims of discrimination under the equal protection clause, and claims of negligence. (Author/JM)

Discusses trend toward minimum competency tests (MCTs) as a requirement for receiving high school graduation. Summarizes criticisms of such testing, and discusses Florida's experience with the MCT, especially in relation to minorities. Concludes that the use of MCTs is potentially discriminatory. (CJM)

The system of competency tests used by the University of Georgia System is examined. Arguments for and against the tests developed by the state board of regents are presented, and the issue of racial discrimination is also addressed. (JMF)

Demonstrates the role the guarantee of due process can play in ensuring that vital interests in public education not be lost through erroneous assessments of a student's proficiency in basic skills, and describes the limits constitutional and statutory guarantees of equal educational opportunity place on the use of competency testing. (Author/IRT)

Reviews the results of minimum competency testing (MCT) programs in states using diploma denials as a sanction against MCT failure. Finds substantial discrepancies between the test performances of Black and White classmates. Proposes that competency testing emphasize the remedial rather than the punitive function of these programs. (KH)