I think some major changes are needed in our school systems.
The only issue I have with this is that teacher pay/employment is based on student performance on these tests.
And teachers complaining it is "unfair" because they can't control all of the other factors in student's lives really rubs me the wrong way. That is nothing new and you get the kids for a significant portion of their awake hours.
I do think teachers need more authority and disciplinary control in the schools and that we must make sure the kids are fed and have the necessary supplies, but beyond that, it's time for the teachers to stop whining and step up.
I know it's not an easy job, and this may not be the right solution, but when you aren't getting results, changes happen.
I'm sorry but when the teachers don't have good leadership at the school and district level, and/or don't have good support from parents, it's ridiculous to put all the responsiblity on them. I have taught insituations where there was a 50% or greater changeover in student population from one year to the next because of transient populations, and it's unreasonable to expect tecahers to fix that kind of instability for a classroo full of kids.
I think the local leadership needs some incentives -- principals, school boards, etc. Who is holding them accountable?
Okay I haven't yet read the posted info but will this weekend (thanks very much GW, Rapunzel)