CHANGES IN TESTING

Here are a list of simple explanations for some questions/comments you might get from parents regarding TCAP standards, new testing, higher cut scores, and lower student results.  I hope these will be helpful for those of you who are currently teachers and may need a tool for helping parents or students understand what is taking place in Tennessee. Hope this is helpful!

What has changed in TN?

Tennessee’s education system has been ranked among the lowest performing states in the nation for several years.  To put it bluntly, what we have been teaching our students (all across Tennessee) has been too easy and our high school graduates have been struggling in college.  Our ACT scores have also been much lower than other states.  Last year the state of Tennessee gave all of our teachers a new set of standards for our children to learn.

How does this affect our children?

The standards our children must learn are much more difficult and the TCAP test given last year was the second toughest achievement test in the United States. 

                                                                                  

Which subject was affected the most?

Math in all grade levels was drastically changed and it showed up on the TCAP scores that will be released to the public within the next few weeks.  For example, in Tennessee last year 75% of the 8^th graders scored “Below Proficient” in math.  Does this mean our teachers and students didn’t “work hard” last year?  Absolutely not, everyone probably worked harder than ever.

Is this a good change?

Yes, within the next few years the state of Tennessee should have one of the best educational systems in the country.  The only problem is change is hard and we all feel it right now.

How will this impact report cards?

Because the curriculum is so much more difficult, making an A will be more difficult.  On the other hand, if they make an A it will really mean something because we have put our children on the same playing field as the rest of the country.  Do not get mad at your child or the teacher if the grades are a little lower than normal.  Grades are simply a reflection of learning and learning is a process.

What can parents do to help?

With all of our students, please use the proper language in discussing school with them.  “What did you learn today?” is healthy.  “Which standard in math are you struggling with?” is an excellent question.  Teachers and students have improved their language at school with total emphasis on learning the standards.