Post by title1parent on May 26, 2009 5:23:11 GMT -5
www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=295854&src=
Be cautious about national testing
Daily Herald 5/26/2009
When Johnny brings home that report card, it represents standards carefully set by a consensus of educators from his school district and state officials.
Illinois now is looking to broaden the consensus. Education leaders recently joined a nationwide effort to align requirements for graduates with those of other states, creating a common core of standards nationwide.
National benchmarks could eliminate the variation now seen in state standards - differences that can hinder families who relocate, potential employers and college admissions officials comparing applicants. A national test could provide a realistic picture of all U.S. students and increase our global competitiveness. Currently, there is no way to make state-by-state comparisons.
While we look with interest at this effort, we urge leaders to proceed with caution.
Basing classroom instruction on a uniform set of standards would be a bold move in a country where, historically, local school districts and states set the rules. It is crucial to connect the education of our children with those who know them best. Our locally elected school boards make funding decisions and help steer policies to fit their communities' needs.
In April, Illinois State Superintendent Christopher Koch brought leaders from 40 states to Chicago to discuss the initiative. They are working with the Council of Chief State School Officers and the National Governor's Association to create "a common core of internationally benchmarked standards."
The effort has the backing of some suburban school officials; others are wary. DuPage County Regional Superintendent Darlene Ruscitti finds potential cost savings of a nationwide test attractive. But she's fearful the initiative could lead to more federal involvement. The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, while well-intentioned, brought little funding but plenty of frustration.
We also are wary of any movement that could erode the local control that has been a hallmark of our national educational system. Directives from a national level may not effectively address local problems. A Fox Valley district with an influx of English language learners, a district in McHenry County growing faster than schools can be built, a Cook County district facing a shrinking tax base all would best balance their needs through local control of educational funds and policies.
Suburban schools have high standards to begin with, Lake County Superintendent Roycealee Wood reminds us. Any new, nationwide standards must not be set lower than those we have now. The bar should remain high, and those closest to our students know just where that is.
A continuing but watchful dialogue is worthwhile on this effort, which would be voluntary for states. Education Secretary Arne Duncan is on board, and an infusion of stimulus funds could give this initiative a push. Let's hope the money doesn't come with strings attached.
Be cautious about national testing
Daily Herald 5/26/2009
When Johnny brings home that report card, it represents standards carefully set by a consensus of educators from his school district and state officials.
Illinois now is looking to broaden the consensus. Education leaders recently joined a nationwide effort to align requirements for graduates with those of other states, creating a common core of standards nationwide.
National benchmarks could eliminate the variation now seen in state standards - differences that can hinder families who relocate, potential employers and college admissions officials comparing applicants. A national test could provide a realistic picture of all U.S. students and increase our global competitiveness. Currently, there is no way to make state-by-state comparisons.
While we look with interest at this effort, we urge leaders to proceed with caution.
Basing classroom instruction on a uniform set of standards would be a bold move in a country where, historically, local school districts and states set the rules. It is crucial to connect the education of our children with those who know them best. Our locally elected school boards make funding decisions and help steer policies to fit their communities' needs.
In April, Illinois State Superintendent Christopher Koch brought leaders from 40 states to Chicago to discuss the initiative. They are working with the Council of Chief State School Officers and the National Governor's Association to create "a common core of internationally benchmarked standards."
The effort has the backing of some suburban school officials; others are wary. DuPage County Regional Superintendent Darlene Ruscitti finds potential cost savings of a nationwide test attractive. But she's fearful the initiative could lead to more federal involvement. The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, while well-intentioned, brought little funding but plenty of frustration.
We also are wary of any movement that could erode the local control that has been a hallmark of our national educational system. Directives from a national level may not effectively address local problems. A Fox Valley district with an influx of English language learners, a district in McHenry County growing faster than schools can be built, a Cook County district facing a shrinking tax base all would best balance their needs through local control of educational funds and policies.
Suburban schools have high standards to begin with, Lake County Superintendent Roycealee Wood reminds us. Any new, nationwide standards must not be set lower than those we have now. The bar should remain high, and those closest to our students know just where that is.
A continuing but watchful dialogue is worthwhile on this effort, which would be voluntary for states. Education Secretary Arne Duncan is on board, and an infusion of stimulus funds could give this initiative a push. Let's hope the money doesn't come with strings attached.
