Testing Does Not Equal Teaching

By Lori Fox

Just this week my students began taking the Wisconsin Badger State Test. Prior to this week the test makers have made numerous changes, postponed the starting date, eliminated sections of the test, and originally it was to be an adaptive test that would provide results of students’ levels of performance, however the creators couldn’t make it work!  What a mess this has been.

There was a time when standardized testing had a more meaningful purpose and there wasn’t as much at stake. Results were used to improve instruction and close the gaps. Changes were made in curriculum to increase student learning. Best practices were put in place. 

This is the state’s first attempt at the Badger Test which is based on the Common Core Standards. Time teaching and real learning has been compromised in preparation for this assessment. I have attended workshops and numerous meetings only to become more confused and frustrated. My thoughts drifted to what Alphie Kohn wrote, “Invoking such terms as “tougher standards,” “accountability,” and “raising the bar,” people with little understanding of how children learn have imposed a heavy-handed, top-down, test-driven version of school reform that is lowering the quality of education in this country.” I totally agree with what he says. Our country is going in the wrong direction where education is concerned. 

My only saving grace is that I am a teacher. Standardized testing is administered once a year. What I do for the rest of the year is my business, and my business is to teach children both educationally and emotionally. It is my responsibility to instill a love of learning, develop decision making and problem solving skills, model and provide the tools for my students to become caring, compassionate adults. My role as a teacher and the impact that I can make on my students are numerous.

I know the importance of teaching standards, I will tolerate high-stakes testing, but I know that teaching my students life lessons will enable them to find success far beyond standardized testing.

Lori Fox is a 4th grade teacher and is passionate about reaching the whole-child. She is also a proud grandma who loves to spend time with family and friends.