The larger truth is that federalized tests mandated from Washington will hurt education. There is no doubt that we should hold our children to high, challenging academic standards. But any such standards should be set at the state and local levels, where parents, teachers and local school boards can make the crucial decisions that will affect our children's educational experience. The arguments against federalized testing are numerous and compelling. As governor of Missouri, and through my work with the Education Commission of the States, I learned that the most important factor in student achievement is the involvement of parents.
Research confirms common sense.
One study in Chicago found that family involvement improved elementary school children's reading comprehension by 0.5 to 0.6 grade equivalents. Another study showed that students in a Maryland elementary school increased their average California Test of Basic Skills math scores by 19 percentile points after implementing a partnership program between parents and teachers. Studies too numerous to list confirm the positive impact of parental involvement. Second, there is wide consensus among teachers, administrators and education experts that what gets tested is what gets taught. Hence, a national test will lead to a national curriculum.