Unfortunately, I don't see the test going anywhere no time soon. I'm a teacher here in Florida, where I teach 3rd grade. I had five students in my class who failed the test. The state law is if they(the students) get a level 1, it is automatic retention.
I feel that some type of assessment needs to be in place to measure whether or not the students learn, but I don't agree that should be the determining factor -which is the way it is now.
Also too, the students in my class who failed did not get parental support at home; that is the most important factor. Far too often it is expected for us(teachers) to do everything; but there is only so much that we can do. If the student(s) came to our classroom's low, there is a chance that they may not improve.