FairTest worked with the National Coalition of Urban Education Associations (NCUEA) Time on Learning Committee to develop a survey that teacher unions can use with their members to expose the consequences of high-stakes testing. It can be adapted for use by parent, student and community groups.
Does Inclusion in Testing Mean Inclusion in Meaningful Learning?
Federal law requires 95% test participation, including for the vast majority of students with disabilities. (One percent of all students may be assessed to alternative standards with alternative assessments. Federal law leaves it up to each state to decide what to do if a school or district does not test 95%.) The theory is that full inclusion in testing will drive full inclusion in learning the “standard” academic curriculum.
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) authorizes states to allow parents to opt their children out of exams if a state or district allows it. Eight states already have laws allowing opt outs.
Testing overuse and misuse is damaging public education. It eats up classroom time, narrows curriculum and drives many students out of school. It perpetuates a false narrative of failure and puts schools in low-income communities at risk of closure or privatization.
Full-Time Strategic Planning Consultant/Potential Executive Director
Take-charge visionary sought to develop strategic action plan for national advocacy organization rooted in education and civil rights issues as its current leadership heads toward retirement. Our ideal candidate will have the desire to succeed the outgoing executive director.
