Studying for Tests

For as long as I can remember there has always been a great deal of chatter on student proficiency levels in ELA and Math. Whether you refer to the Nation at Risk, the Common Core Standards, or the new teacher accountability system; it is always tied to student performance in which politicians  discuss the percentage of students performing at grade levels or which countries have the best education system.

Yesterday  I was reading a report which discussed the average SAT scores of teachers servicing students and how we should try to recruit teachers with high SAT scores. Lost in these conversations are how these tests impact students. In fact, I do not think I ever seen an article that addresses this issue. I am always thankful that at least in my elementary years the annualized test was not ac major focus in our school. However, I do remember how the regents in high school were a big deal. Like many students I studied for the exams and worried how I would perform as I was told how important it was to graduate with a regents diploma. Keep in mind, that during the 1980's a regents diploma meant you passed 3 math regents, 2 science regents, 1 history regents,  1 English regents, and 1 language regents. Through it all both my parents were very supportive of the entire process. My father was always available to help me with any math question I had and had an amazing way of explaining mathematical concepts with such clarity. Similarly, my mother was very helpful with the Biology regents which is no surprise given her medical background.

Both my parents were demanding (especially my mother) as they wanted the best for their children. At the same time, my mother would offer support ranging from study techniques,  assisting with my studies, encouragement , coaching, and so on. She also told me repeatedly that she was not concerned with the final grade as long as I focused on my studies. Through their support I always understood that  the test score was not the most important thing, it was what you learned through the process. Through their support, I was not super stressed about these high stakes tests as I knew I had a family that was very supportive of this process. As I think about these experiences I am both appreciative of the upbringing I had. However, I also recognize that our politicians need to build the necessary supports so that struggling families can help their children as well as there is no question that strong family support is the most significant factor to guarantee student success.