This excerpt from the suspension letter shows a striking lack of familiarity with basic mathematics: As he chose NOT to perform, he will get a zero on that section, which will be averaged with the scores of all of the other students in his class: in this case, 10 other children. Obviously, a 0, when averaged with only 10 other scores, can drastically impact the average. Thus, he has compromised the representation of what his peers know and are able to do. Their scores will be reported as a group, not as individuals. Additionally, this extends to the whole fourth grade, as our school score, the one that is reported to the state and the media, is an average of all fourth grade students. Thus, his choice impacts Tyler, his classmates, his grade mates, and his school. As we have worked so hard this year to improve our writing skills, this is a particularly egregious wound. Principal MCarthy is trying to make a case for the severity of Tyler's actions but instead shows in graduated steps how little his failure to answer the question actually affects anything. She states that his grade is averaged into those of his class so his zero is mitigated by the nine other students in his class. But wait, it's actually averaged into the entire fourth grade student body. That makes its actual impact exceptionally small. She also has a problem with the basic principles of grading. His failure to answer the question will get him a zero for that question but she represents this as if he will receive a zero for the entire test: "Obviously, a 0, when averaged with only 10 other scores, can drastically impact the average." It is also very clear that Principle MCarthy violated the rules on administering this test. You may not point out to students an incorrectly answered question, point out questions that have not been completed, or read and comment on student essays. ... RCW 28A.635.040 and WAC 180-87-060 both provide penalties for the unauthorized use or disclosure of test content and flagrant disregard of generally recognized professional standards in test preparation and administration. Unprofessional conduct must be reported to the Office of Professional Practices at OSPI. As the test is administered by legal fiat this gross abuse may also constitute breaking the law.
This is the reason why they tried to force the kid to answer the stupid essay question.
McCarthy