Here we go a WASL-ing

Mon., March 10, 2008

The Spokesman-Review

From the Parents Council blog this week:

“A recent story about the cost of administering the WASL made me wonder: Has it made a significant difference in the way we educate our children?

“It seems we rarely hear from parents, especially those whose kids are getting ready for college.

“Are your children better prepared for higher education as a result of the WASL? How has this test improved the quality of education for your child?”

– Posted by Virginia de Leon

“If a dog trainer refused to let puppies play and worked the puppies endlessly in order for them to score top marks in an agility trial, the trainer would be considered cruel and overly competitive. We’d say that play time was crucial to the puppies’ normal development.

“But we’re seeing schools cut recess, field trips, assemblies, even after-school sports just so that there will be time in the day to practice for the WASL.

“If that isn’t messed up priorities, I don’t know what is.”

– Posted by Jennine

“It’s a big issue for some parents. We have chosen not to force our kids to take the WASL. Even though we are technically enrolled in District 81, we are part of The Enrichment Cooperative at Bryant. Many of the families choose not to have their kids take the test.

“There is, however, a possible downside to this. If the WASL remains and if our kids remain in District 81, they can’t get a high school diploma without taking the test.

“But to me it’s worth the risk. I have too many teacher friends that I’ve seen being forced to teach to the test. That’s not education. …

“What’s the bigger picture? If kids aren’t learning, implementing standardized testing isn’t the answer. Let’s look at other options as well.”

– Posted by Sarah Bain

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