From TcPalm.com
Ray Hofmann, Port St. Lucie
For too many years, the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test has ruled what is taught and when it is taught.
Teachers and students are under the gun to do all in their power to do well on the FCAT. Parents have witnessed their children living in fear of the coming test day. Florida taxpayers have invested millions of dollars to establish this extensive testing program which is in constant change.
Now, the State Board of Education has unanimously approved a tougher scoring system for the FCAT. Bottom line: More students will fail.
The idea of each state setting up its own testing program is wrong. If, however, students are to be evaluated by tests, using a national testing program would be a better choice.
Florida students should be compared to students throughout the nation. Using a national testing program would save millions of dollars that are being spent every year to develop the FCAT.
The money saved could be used to improve learning in the classroom. Florida students will be seeking jobs throughout the United States and therefore need to see their performance as it compares to students throughout the country.
As a retired educator, I feel that the FCAT is being used as a political tool to hurt public education.
http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2012/jan/02/letter-improve-education-save-taxpayer-dollars/
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