We’ve heard similar from friends of ours that homeschool as well. It just reinforces our decision even more to go this route with our kids’ education.

Same, the state I grew up in required standardized testing for homeschoolers, and I always felt like the exams weren't a serious challenge. I don't think I'm above average intelligence or academically gifted, so I just figured it said more about how low the bar is set than anything.