One issue is that if educators can’t have students take practice tests then some parents will find a way to help students practice while others won’t do it and their schools will be dinged. (I understand the point is to spend no classroom time on prepping.)
It’s disingenuous to think students can all show what they’re capable of on an unknown format.
But at least with the same cohort taking a test at three points in the year, hopefully the students& teachers will be able to understand the test a bit as the year goes.