They also instituted a new testing program, if you read the full article. I think the new system makes a heck of a lot more sense.
I did read the full article. This?:
“Ms. Shapiro said she would consider that proposal, but she noted that the Senate had also looked at such a provision and decided it was impractical to use end-of-course tests in lower grades.
Still another change in the current testing program, offered by Rep. Dora Olivo, D-Rosenberg, would ease the current requirement that students in grades three and five pass the TAKS to be promoted to the next grade level. The requirement was adopted several years ago to curtail the widespread practice of social promotion – automatically passing students regardless of achievement.
The amendment by Ms. Olivo would reduce the number of times a failing student would have to take the TAKS before his parents, teacher and principal could agree to waive the test requirement and promote the student. Currently, students are given three opportunities to pass, and only then can an agreement be made to promote the student.”
One “reform” was rejected by these same “educators”, the other one is already in place and “token”.
Seems a little wrong not to note that the testing was replaced, not eliminated.
Too many problems with excerpts being posted without a comment indicating the main points of the article. That’s just misleading, if it happened.
That would depend. The "end of course" exams would not mean anything if they are teaching seventh grade English to high school sophomores. Or, eighth grade math to high school seniors. Just because they complete the end of course exam doesn't mean they have been taught at their age level.
Love ya Basil, but you're wrong on this one. You don't have to be a rocket scientist to pass the existing tests. If you can't pass this test, you shouldn't graduate until you do.
My grandfather was on the school board in our little town in the '40s. In his day, the literacy rate was 99%. Foreigners assimilated into the system, got jobs, got educated and thrived. Now we do nothing but coddle the inept. We are far too concerned with making sure these kids have a good self image and don't give a damn whether they learn basic survival skills.
My daughters are not only expected to pass, but are expected to excel. They have each taken 4 or 5 TX TAKS tests and done well on each. I blame the parents as much as the kids, who are largely on auto-pilot.