Tests a wasted effort

The last thing we need is for the discussion surrounding standardized testing in Saskatchewan’s K-12 schools to turn into a left vs. right political football. But now, at least in this paper, it has.

John Gormley (March 8), on the right, in favour; Greg Fingas (March 21), on the left, opposed.

For those not ruled by political idealogy, Google and read a little about, and by, Diane Ravitch. One of the most respected educational historians and analysts in the United States, and a professor at New York University, she was appointed by George H. W. Bush and then Bill Clinton to oversee renewal of the shoddy American school “system”, an effort that led to the birth of the “No child left behind” program.

Initially an advocate of standardized testing, she spent years promoting it in her position in those administrations. Now she is a fierce opponent. She states that she was wrong (how refreshing to hear that from anyone); that they are a waste of time, money and effort and have actually contributed to the further deterioration of the already sorry state of American public education.

Some standardized testing — selectively purposeful — has always been around in our schools. But across-the-board K-12 testing, annually will be — because that’s what history tells us — a waste of time, effort and money likely to leave us worse off, not better.

Read Dr. Ravitch’s thoughts. I bet you will be left believing she is right. Jim M. Gallagher, Regina Gallagher is a retired high school English teacher.