HARRISBURG, Pa.-- For many Pennsylvania students, the P.S.S.As are a part of their educational process. It's one of the standardized tests they have to take, but some believe they take too much time.
"This is a concern we have heard throughout the state," State Senator Lloyd Smucker said.
Local school district superintendents told us children need to spend less time filling out tests. Smucker agrees, tests need to take up less time.
"I think the pendulum has swung a little too far in the direction of standardized tests," he said.
Changes could be coming down the road. With the passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act, states can now reevaluate their state standardizing tests. The act replaces No Child Left Behind. In Pennsylvania, that could mean making the tests more time efficient.
"This gives us a chance to recalibrate and ensure the tests that are in place are providing the feedback they need," Sen. Smucker said.
If the changes are made, it won't be this school year. The changes would take effect in the 2017-2018 school year. Right now, there are meetings trying to look at new options.