Replacing the state’s MEA test with the SAT for 11th-graders is a plan worth exploring.

Commissioner of Education Susan Gendron discussed the idea last week during a conference on higher education held at Bates College.

Many educators believe the SAT, a standardized, national test that is often required for students who apply to colleges and universities, is a good substitute for the Maine Educational Assessment exam for juniors. The question is why the state went to the time and expense of developing its own test if the SAT, which has been around for decades, is a comparable measuring stick for student performance?

Making the SAT part of the normal curriculum ensures that every student has the opportunity to take the test. For those students already planning to attend college, they’ll save $41.50, which the Department of Education would pay for the exam, and reduce their test load. For those on the fence about college, one more hurdle would be cleared. A taste of success on the test could prompt them to pursue a higher education.

Before making the switch, however, the education department needs to run the numbers. Since it would be replacing a state-administered test, there should be some savings, but the costs would quickly add up. Gendron must ensure the money will be there and won’t be taken from other areas. Rules would need to be developed to handle students who take the SAT multiple times, hoping to improve their scores.

The motivation behind the idea is to encourage more students to attend college. It has potential.