An expensive and subjective test

I would like to address the parents who think the Washington Assessment of Student Learning is just a test and that by being supportive of it they are promoting better education.

The WASL is a very expensive and subjective test that is scored in a very controversial manner. In the year 2008 this test will be so powerful it will determine who will graduate and who will not. Your school will face serious consequences if WASL scores are not high enough. This is why the WASL is referred to as a “high-stakes” test.

The WASL is costing millions while other school programs are being cut. NCS Pearson, the company that scores the WASL, has a history of scoring fiascoes, including depriving students of diplomas and graduation ceremonies because of scoring errors.

Is this what we want for Washington’s school children? An education that only focuses on subjects that are tested? That discounts opinions of teachers and educators, but instead makes decisions based on a single test score.

I don’t care how many retakes are allowed. I won’t support the WASL, and will keep my children away from this silly “test.” And yes, for now, the test is optional!

KATHY STORKERSEN

Edmonds