The other day, on our local radio talk show, they were discussing some legislation that is being considered in Austin right now.
They are contemplating changing the policy that requires children to pass the TAKS before passing to the next grade. When Bush was governor, he passed a law that made this a requirement. Although I love him, I think this was a stupid law. This was a law made by a man that never spent a day teaching...although his wife did...I can't imagine she didn't chew him out about this!
Anyway, I digress...
There is some legislation on the floor in Austin, that would put the TAKS back where it belongs...
as an achievement test (hence the name)...
as something to look at to find the gaps in a child's learning and be able to reteach...
as something to look at to see if an entire class is missing elements...to see if the teacher is doing their job...
to show which kids were ahead and which were behind...
Remember?
Remember when grades actually determined if you passed or failed?
Remember when teachers could teach fun stuff and the learning would happen because the children were involved and excited?
Remember when teachers didn't teach to the test?
Remember when kids weren't stressed about they test? They just did their best and didn't have to throw up or wet their pants because they were so stressed about whether they would go to the next grade or not?
Those were the days!
I am glad that someone in Austin agrees!
2 comments:
Amen, Amen and AMEN!!
Ah....Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills....forget the fact that a child is a tactile or kinesthetic learner who does well when teachers do what we are supposed to do....teach to different learning styles and intelligences....it is hard for us when that child has to sit for 3 days of 4 hours (each) of testing, only to fail and be told that their year's worth of work was for nothing. So sad. I hated TAKS.
And "Nickle-B".....though great in theory, just didn't pan, did it? I hope they finally make the changes...then when i go back, I won't feel so bad for doing my job.
Post a Comment