As I pondered of another topic in education that spoke to
me… testing came in like a two edge sword. I thought about all the enormous
pressure of stress that is associated with testing. As educators, we are faced
with the dilemma of what should we do when it comes to testing. I know that
teaching the test is insufficient, and can lead to only a temporary fix; a band
aid solution. In this, what I’m trying to say…is this really a way to acknowledge
or truly understand whether or not my students have mastered of a particular
content area. I can’t allow myself to get caught up in the pressure, but
instead embrace a teachable moment. I must search out that enjoyment in the
purity of teaching, the sanction of fulfilling a greater need- providing
empowerment and encouragement into the lives of my students. Yes, I feel the pressure;
I see it on the faces of my colleagues every single day. It is sad, when the
test, simply takes over, the joy of teaching. I say No… yes be that great
teacher that drives instruction by providing our students with a learning
environment that is enamored with anchor charts, students’ exemplary pieces, and love every lasting. There is a time and a
place for testing… as mastery teachers, we teach our students in preparation
for any test, not just the one in April.
We must stand on our professional integrity and know that if we provide
our students with assess to unlimited possibilities through technology and
drive instruction through standards according to our state; I truly believe the
truth will be revealed.
In closing,
I say always teach the child, never the test. We must trust in our own pedagogy
and our student’s desire to snatch up success and conquer it!
Joy Overflowing,
April
