Question 5: Gov. Phil Murphy has run into opposition to his plan to change standardized testing in New Jersey. What do you think he should do now?
Pamela J. Priscoe: In my opinion, Governor Murphy and his administration must continue to fight towards additional changes with regards to standardized testing. The opposition is multi-faceted because challenges are faced on both the education front and the political front; however finding a balance is a complicated process. Governor Murphy had plans to “eliminate standardized testing on Day 1.” Clearly, that did not happen and the steps to get closer have been difficult. The Governor’s plans to eliminate several PARCC tests in an effort to reduce student testing have been revised. Going forward the Governor and NJ Lawmakers must work cooperatively with educators, families and students in order to devise a better way to assess student learning. High-stakes, high-stress tests given over a period of a few days should not be the primary way we assess students. Standardized testing is a snapshot into a child’s educational experience. It is good experience for taking SAT’s, ACT’s, etc., but testing should not be used as a rating system for students or teachers. In my opinion, the high expectations of these tests cause unwarranted stress and low self-esteem at an early age.
A system that reflects a fuller picture of student learning and simplified test graduation requirements is necessary. Teachers are now teaching to the test so students can be prepared, which is taking valuable classroom instruction away from standard curriculum. More time should be spent honing the students skill set on studying for tests such as mid-term and final exams, which will better prepare them for life after high school as most enter into two and four year accredited institutions.
We must prioritize the needs and well-being of students. On a local level, there needs to be structure to test preparation and administration time for students in a way that best benefits them. Changes based on the ESSA (Every Student Succeeds Act) include long term goals for districts across the state; many of which are reached by Verona students, including academic achievement and graduation rates. This is supported by the recent rankings of NJ High Schools by New Jersey Monthly Magazine which lists Verona as #24 in the State. Verona students, supported by the staff, administration and community continue to achieve and exceed expectations. It is the hope that our State Government will continue to work cooperatively with educators to support local districts in assessing student outcomes.
