Despite Program’s Expiration, Governor Pushes for Testing
Although state law is phasing out second-grade students’ participation in the statewide STAR testing program in July, it is being reported that reinstating the test for these youngsters is a top priority of the governor’s office.
CTA representatives have long pointed out that the testing program is both counterproductive and costly. First, it puts youngsters not developmentally ready to deal with the test under undue pressure. Second, the testing of youngsters in second grade puts California out of synch with the federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act (NCLB) that specifies that testing should begin in third grade. In fact, phasing out the exam as scheduled in July will make California the 42nd state to reject second-grade testing.
Third, the amount of time that the testing has taken out of the instructional day for these second-graders has also posed problems.
CTA advocates have also pointed out that the second-grade testing is costly, representing a cost of more than $3 million annually, money that could be better spent on instructional programs for these youngsters.
• CTA Members:
As you talk with your lawmakers on budget issues, urge them to stand firm against the reauthorization of the second-grade STAR testing, which phases out in July 2007. The fact that lawmakers agreed to let the examination sunset represents a major victory for CTA. Preventing its reinstatement will mark another major victory.