All 50 states have exams to test student learning, and 49 states set academic standards. Another test won't stem declining achievement any more than the hundreds of tests that have gone before. What's more, federal standards mean Washington politicians decide which curriculums and policies are best for America's 53 million schoolchildren. Just remember, he who pays the piper calls the tune. Just witness the millions of children on waiting lists for scholarships to private schools.
Parents know quality education when they see it.
This essay appeared in USA Today on Jan. 24, 2001.