Hickenlooper supports reduced student testing

Gov. John Hickenlooper joined leaders of the state Legislature Tuesday to support reduced student testing. Together, they're backing a bill that would eliminate some standardized tests in kindergarten through third grade and drop virtually all testing for 11th and 12th graders.

The bill follows the recommendations of a testing task force that examined the burden on students. Critics say too much classroom time is going to preparation and testing.

Hickenlooper said the state will continue to hold students to a high standard, but acknowledged there may be "too many tests being given."

The legislation is moving forward even as the state is debuts a whole new system of computerized assessments for students in third grade through 11th grade. Some districts saw a large number of students opt out of the tests earlier this month.

CPR News' Pat Mack contributed to this report.