Yes, it has made all of us take a hard look at curriculum issues, but has also sent home the message that we want kids who can apply the basic knowledge they are learning, who are thinkers and problem-solvers ready for the 21st Century. Another plus is that it gives us a measure for the general public. Frankly, I truly believe the public is tired of funneling money into education and seeing no results. Political talk already leans that way. I enjoy the accountability that the criterion-reference test brings.
Accountability is good for all concerned.
I am writing in response to 2 emails. You see, their scores weren't high enough. Both these emails elicited strong feelings from me about the need to bring about change. So I went and found the copy of Michael Fullan 's book, Change Forces, The Sequel , which I had purchased but never finished reading. Moral Purpose Is Complex and Problematic.