At the April 12 School Board meeting I was very disappointed to learn that a number of district parents have opted their children out of the PARCC tests being given this month.
This is unfortunate for our community and our schools. Whether people think there are too many test for students or there should be more, the end of the year tests have been a part of school history for years. I remember taking the Iowa Test of Basic Skills every spring and even though I did not get a "grade" for taking it, it was always a challenge to see how much more I knew and how I compared with other kids.
End of the year tests hold teachers and schools accountable for what students should know. Because they are required by the State Legislature, poor outcomes can mean a loss of income for districts, jobs for educators and in some extreme cases schools can be closed or taken over by the state. Bayfield invests a great deal of money, time and energy in helping students become successful, so to have students opt out or not take the mandated testing seriously is concerning.
There is a need for both teaching the skills necessary to succeed on tests and in preparing students to think and engage in learning.
Tests are a part of life. We take tests to get a driver's license, to be a Iicensed professional in a chosen field, and more. I ask that parents be responsible; don't let your kids take the easy way out. Student evaluation results are important to all of us.
Carol Blatnick
Bayfield
Carol Blatnick is a member of the Bayfield Board of Education.
