FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky Board of Education refined proposed regulations for the state's overhauled assessment and accountability system during its August 5-6 meeting, marking continued progress on legislation that fundamentally reshapes how schools are evaluated.

The proposed revisions to regulation 703 KAR 5:270 follow House Bill 257, legislation passed during the 2026 general assembly that shifts Kentucky's accountability framework from group-based metrics to individual student growth in reading and mathematics. KDE's Office of Assessment and Accountability, represented by Associate Commissioner Jennifer Stafford and Policy Advisor Jennifer Larkins, presented the early draft to board members.

Board members devoted time to discussing the proposed growth table, the values assigned within it and whether the chart adequately promotes growth, while also weighing how much each indicator is weighted in the accountability system, including chronic absenteeism.

The discussion incorporated recommendations from the School Curriculum, Assessment and Accountability Council and the Local Superintendents Advisory Council. The legislation requires removal of on-demand writing and editing mechanics assessments while requiring districts to adopt local writing policies.

Kentucky Department of Education leaders will continue meeting with advisory groups and other education stakeholders to receive input before the regulation advances for a second reading during the KBE meeting scheduled for October 7-8, followed by a public comment period.