Quote Originally Posted by lily27 View Post
I just don't think teaching to some standardized test is going to do that.
You are exactly correct about that, lily. Teaching that only emphasizes testing material should be illegal, in my opinion. In one system, teachers were actually mandated to stop teaching "the more frivolous" subjects and focus only on math and reading. Well that certainly makes for a well-rounded education, doesn't it. I mean studying about other cultures, the history of the events in the past that brought us to the place we are today, the beauty in art and music...yes, all so very frivolous. I read that memo and said out loud to my administrator, "can I throw up now or do I need to wait?". That incident is a perfect example of what NCLB is doing for our children.

It's also true that not every child is cut out for advanced education, but every child can be taught something that will lead them on into becoming a productive citizen. Why can't the resources be used to educate students in the way that would most benefit the individual? Oh yes, I almost forgot...NCLB. But then again, it's also NCLB that says "NO excuses...every child must learn this, that and that, so Teachers, utilize every method possible, plus all the ones you don't even know about, and make these children learn...but only what's necessary to be on the good side of the AYP list come May.". It is bordering on the utterly ridiculous.

I must say that there are a few school systems who are successfully educating students and keeping test scores high. But only because the people in charge understand NCLB for what it is and ensure it doesn't ruin everything.