On Thursday the scores for the Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) were released. On Aug. 21, The Herald published an editorial to announce the release of the scores and the importance of the data in light of the Bush administration “No Child Left Behind” legislation.
Under “No Child Left Behind,” schools across the nation must demonstrate “adequate yearly progress.” The means and adequacy of such legislation, while undoubtedly aspiring to a national “accountability” for public schools, is a matter of great national debate, and not the issue undertaken in this letter.
I would like to respond to The Herald’s advice: “parents, if your school … hasn’t made ‘adequate yearly progress’ … don’t panic. Find out why …” The Herald urged parents to “call the school’s office and ask why,” stating that “it’s critically important for parents to dig deeper and find out what’s going on at their school.”
I agree. Do find out what’s going on at your school. But, I would like to add, please do not call your child’s school so soon to ask an already very busy school support staff who is working diligently to get our 2003-2004 school year off to a great start. Rather, make the effort to establish and build a relationship with your child’s teachers, librarians, administrators and support staff. Join your child’s PTA. Become a part of the community which is a significant part of your child’s day.
Best wishes for a year of achievement for all of our children.
Everett
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