My oldest child is now in third grade, and this year marks the start of his journey with the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) standardized test. While many parents might recall the bubble tests of their own childhoods, today’s standardized assessments are quite different. They commence earlier, extend for longer durations, and carry significant consequences. Like many parents across the nation, I find myself worried.
The ongoing debate around standardized testing has fueled my concerns, not only for my son but also for the broader implications for society. These testing policies have faced criticism for various reasons: they can induce anxiety, set unrealistic expectations, hinder creativity, and perpetuate biases related to race and socioeconomic status. My commitment extends beyond just supporting my son’s learning; I aim to contribute to a future where every child can thrive.
After much deliberation over the past year, I am torn between allowing my son to take the PARCC test or opting out. He falls into a category of students for whom standardized testing may not significantly affect his educational journey—he performs at grade level across all subjects without particularly struggling or excelling. While I don’t anticipate a two-hour test affecting his immediate learning, I can’t help but ponder the long-term ramifications.
Will these tests stifle his creativity and critical thinking skills? Will they teach children to regurgitate answers rather than explore the questions that stimulate innovation? I also worry that poorly designed assessments could exacerbate existing social equity issues. Despite the noble goal of “no child left behind,” I fear that many children are indeed being left behind. How do we ensure every child has access to quality education when the tests themselves may favor certain students over others?
Initially, my instinct was to completely opt out of standardized testing. However, my thoughtful partner prefers a more informed approach, and I have a close friend who is an educational expert willing to guide me through this maze. This has led me on a year-long journey to dissect the complexities surrounding standardized testing, gathering insights and evaluating options. While I feel more informed now, many questions remain unanswered.
The debate over standardized testing is multifaceted; it cannot be adequately encapsulated in a short article. Contrary to popular belief, parents do have agency in this issue. We can inquire, evaluate, and continue to seek answers.
I still haven’t made a final decision about whether my son will participate in the PARCC test, but I have asked countless questions in various ways. How can we foster a love for learning and curiosity while still striving for a competitive edge? How do we emphasize values like friendship, teamwork, and diversity amidst the hustle of daily academic demands? Most importantly, how do I protect my child’s innate wonder from being overshadowed by the pressure of test scores?
I will persist in seeking answers, as all parents should. If it seems fitting, my husband and I will seriously consider opting our son out of the tests. Meanwhile, as we navigate our options and advocate for meaningful reforms in education, it’s essential to also recognize the positive aspects of learning.
In my quest to determine whether or not to opt out of the PARCC test, I have experienced a whirlwind of emotions. However, a recent gift from my son—a beautifully crafted birthday book filled with heartfelt messages and drawings from his classmates—offered clarity.
Across the country, there are remarkable educators who prioritize kindness over perfect spelling, who understand that learning is woven into everyday life rather than confined to tests. They celebrate birthdays instead of just rote memorization. And then there are the kids—bright souls unburdened by excessive expectations. They know that pizza, orange Gatorade, and the Chicago Cubs are among my son’s favorite things. These children embody hope, joy, curiosity, and kindness, deserving of every ounce of celebration.
While the landscape of education and standardized assessments may have shifted, the essence of joyful learning remains illuminated by these simple birthday books.
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Summary
The decision to allow my son to take the PARCC standardized test is fraught with concerns regarding its impact on his creativity and critical thinking. As I navigate this challenging landscape, I recognize the need to balance educational rigor with the joyful aspects of learning. I’m committed to seeking answers and ensuring my son’s educational experience remains rich and fulfilling, while also considering the broader implications of standardized testing.