Improvement under way

I agree with the editorial (June 18) on math and science assessment; however, a point has been lost in the emotion and politics in education.

One problem is when change is proposed, people line up on opposite sides; compromise is a dirty word. Nevertheless, while public focus is on the WASL, improved standards have already been implemented. New standards in literacy, math and science were initiated by HB 1209 in the early ’90s; and professional organizations and science educators developed new standards and have been conducting teacher training in them.

Because the literacy standards were introduced first, many districts spent a lot of time on those, in some cases to the detriment of math and science. But many districts have done it all and improved in all areas.

Improved teaching and learning is ongoing, and students are improving. Let’s stop confusing the test with the standards, and talk to your teachers and administrators. If your district is not doing as well, go to Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, find the districts that are and learn from them. The standards are on the OSPI Web site, and as a science educator I’d be happy to answer any questions.

John P. McNamara

Member, WSU President’s Teaching Academy

Pullman