Forum Discussion

[Jennifer Parker <jenbie44@hotmail.com>]

Oh, my. First teachers get bashed for not preparing their students to pass state tests, now we get bashed for preparing them to pass. 
 
I know that what I've written is hard for people to hear. I think we all agree that learning should be fun, exciting, and motivating for all. My point is that the reality of high stakes tests allows for very little of this. You asked about the price paid. This is exactly the price paid. 
 
Perhaps teachers in schools not constantly in fear of falling short of AYP have the luxury to work in an environment that you envision. However, in my neck of the woods schools are in constant fear and under constant pressure and teachers are told very specifically by principals and administrators NOT to teach any subjects that aren't included in AYP and to only spend time on skills from the assessment. This is why a lot of great teachers end up leaving. 
 
 
 
 
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