<p>xiggi–the problem is those tests don’t always test what they should be learning or even ARE learning at a given level. Last year our kids had to take the math portion of the grad standard test. The bulk of that test was geometry–a class kids had 2-3 years prior. They spent about 2 weeks going over the material but the kids really had to study to get caught up–most of them were doing pre-calc or calculus work by then. Doesn’t mean they were behind the 8 ball, just haven’t used geometry for such a long time. </p>
<p>Also, teaching to the test holds back the smarter kids. They are the ones that suffer. they can’t move at a pace that works for them because that one kid in their class isn’t getting it. We need to go back to a tracked system that allowed students to move at a pace that pushes them along with out totally frustrating them. That system needs to be flexible as kids mature academically as well. We also have to understand, as a society, that there are just some kids that are smarter than others and it is not a reflection on your parenting skills if you have the smartest child in the class or the slowest child in the class…this’ everyone wins’ mentality is really what killed the education system in this country…</p>