Report: Technical problems didn't affect ISTEP scores

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- During this year's ISTEP testing, approximately 78,000 students experienced technical difficulties. Those technical problems also caused a delay in reporting individual scores. On Monday, the state released its findings into whether or not the technical difficulties affected scores.

The state said the report found no major harm as a whole for the students who experienced technical difficulties.

The state's spokesperson said it is possible some students may have been negatively impacted, but it didn't affect overall scores.

State Superintendent Glenda Ritz ordered the study after some students experienced technical glitches with the ISTEP testing.

It's impossible to tell whether or not the state's findings are accurate because individual scores won't be available until August.

We spoke with John Riztler of the South Bend Community School Corporation. He said the delays were troublesome, but not unmanageable.

He said the ISTEP is just a piece of what school districts use to prepare for the upcoming school year.

"We have to be looking at a lot of other things when we're preparing for the upcoming school year, or evaluations of teachers and schools. Yes, it'd be nice to have that extra piece, but we have to remember it's just an extra piece," said Riztler, Executive Director of Research and Evaluation.