State standardized testing in the self contained sped classes?

Question

Are you affected by high stakes standardized state testing? I am. My principal has told me that she is holding me responsible if my special ed kids fail the tests. I have so many odds against me.

1. The kids are in a multi grade classroom (with different standards at each level) I must do everything because there is no aide.

2. The kids receive numerous services during the academic day and leave the room frequently.

3. Some of the kids are severely academically deficient (in reading) and they must take the same exams as their regular ed peers (even with the mods which are not enough).

4. They live in a high poverty area with little to no parent

involvement.

5. There class work means little to the higher ups even though it indicates their growth.

Oh, and to top it off I have less than 4 weeks to make sure they pass a test that covers 4 years of knowledge.

I have a feeling I will receive her wrath when the results are less than favorable.

Answer 1

Many parents don't know that they can have their child that is in special ed to opt out of the state testing.

www.wrightslaw.com

Answer 2

LOL

Your principal needs a reality check. In my district many students in our mild/ moderate SDC classroom take high stakes testing, but no one holds a big anvil over our heads if our kids do not do well. Many of our kids do not have as many strikes against them as your kids, but the tests are very difficult for our students and we are just proud of them for not melting down during the lengthy painful process.

This year there is a new alternative assessment option available that is more similar to the state test but not as simple as for children with severe disabilities. I am really looking into having more of the students take this test.

I feel for you as I know if the principal took this attitude with our students I would be very anxious and upset as well as fill the need to provide her with an education.. lol.

Answer 3

That's tehpublic school system for you--I was held responsibel for a student arriving to school late.....

You cannot just opt out by being in a slef contained class-there needs to be a rationale for each child-it cann;t be used as a crutch...