Public schools strive to fill their mission of helping students improve
their skills and reach their full potential. Accountability for this mission
has always been an important priority.
In current times, accountability is
focused almost exclusively on test scores.
Supporters of testing contend that
exams will lead to measurable results.
Opponents argue that average scores on
high-stakes testing do not indicate how far a given teacher or school has taken
a group of students from where they started. The scores don’t show the progress
that was made for the individual student.
We hear of strong political support
for tests, balanced by parent opposition. Clearly, there is controversy.
Nonetheless, tests right now are
the only game in town. They are required of all schools and students in our
state, and there are rewards and sanctions depending on the average outcome.
Some young people are “naturals” at
test-taking. They can sail through tests without stress. For many others, the
taking of national and state standardized tests can be a time of high
frustration and anxiety.
To help children feel confident about
tests throughout their school career help them be relaxed, prepared, and rested. This is a way parents can their
children succeed.
