"But as it becomes better known, it will become much more important, particularly as it is aiming at basic skills.

"As a business community, are we concerned (about the results)? Yes, we are very concerned, but confident as this continues to be implemented it will work better and have the accountability we need."

But some wonder if this test is the answer.

Huntsman, in an education summit last fall, called for an alternative to the basic skills testing. He said competency should be able to be measured in ways other than a single exam, and the state should not give students diplomas he said will "embarrass them for the rest of their lives."

"He's not a fan of this test," said his spokeswoman, Lisa Roskelley.

"He has met with nearly every single school district in the state ... and the common (complaint) is that we overtest. When he has asked what test ought to go, the UBSCT is the answer," she said.

Huntsman prefers schools focus on creating lifelong learners, she said. "When you're constantly teaching to a test, when do you teach to life?"

But Jordan's Mason says the test has impacted schools for the better.

"I think it has helped identify students with ... basic learning needs, and we have structured programs to address those needs perhaps more strongly than we have in the past," he said. "I'm encouraged by what's going on in the schools."

---

E-mail: jtcook@desnews.com