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MCAS: The debate over Question 2, an effort to drop the high school 'exit exam' (www.wbur.org)

submitted 2 months ago by borebore to c/boston

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[–] paf0 1 points 2 months ago* (last edited 2 months ago)

There are many complaints about the test and it seems that there should be an improved test, rather than the same test with zero stakes. The test is used to evaluate all schools and extra funding is allocated is based on the results. I don't believe students will take it seriously if it doesn't mean anything.

Also, I don't really understand why teachers feel the need to teach to the test. The skills tested should already be reflected in the curriculum. If the test does not reflect the curriculum then this needs to be rectified one way or another. Removing the graduation requirement doesn't help make the test better.

I understand where people are coming from when it comes to ESL students and learning disabilities. It might make sense for the test to be given in multiple languages, or for kids on an IEP to have extra time. However, in the end, we should be preparing kids well enough to not need extra help. These sorts of programs do not exist in most work places and are rare in colleges. We are failing the students if we are not educating them and the MCAS is one of the few tools we have to ensure high education standards, and that a diploma in Massachusetts actually means something.