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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Seattle students at risk in WASL held back

Associated Press The Spokesman-Review

SEATTLE – Nearly one-quarter of sophomores in Seattle high schools have been reclassified as freshmen, a move that will delay their schedule for taking the Washington Assessment of Student Learning.

This year’s sophomore class is the first that must pass the WASL to graduate. The students reclassified as freshmen were failing or not completing classes, and school officials were fearful they would not pass the high-stakes exam.

The action takes the pressure off the 827 reclassified students for now. They can remain with peers in classes, sports and other activities but must make up credits by taking classes at night or during the summer if they want to graduate on time.

“Students who are not on time in terms of credits don’t pass the WASL,” said John Thorp, a spokesman for Seattle Public Schools. “What is the point of putting them through the WASL if they are not ready?”

Other school districts in the region have reclassifying policies, but Seattle may be the only district to adjust its policies due to the WASL.

The concentration of newly classified freshmen is highest at schools with large ethnic minority populations and students on the federal free- and reduced-priced lunch program – groups most at risk for failing the WASL.