See Chart on School Test Scores School Board Chairman Bob Macey said taxpayers and parents want accountability for schools, but he questions whether the FCAT does that adequately. However, that's the standard by which we're graded, and therefore we'll have to do our best. Board member Jim Nelson said basing the school's entire grade on the FCAT puts too much pressure on principals and staff.
Every class is different with their own unique gifts and deficiencies.
It's like the principals and staff have to hold their breath every year waiting for the grades. To me, that's insulting to the other teachers in the county and in the state. We have to all work together to make sure kids get a good education, and the FCAT is only one part of that. Board member Larry Peacock, who taught for 23 years prior to becoming a board member, said the state should have some evaluation, but the FCAT isn't it. Teachers' advocates also have concerns about the emphasis on testing.