The testing program is not without detractors. But this is the first year that students have actually boycotted the test. We respectfully disagree. The wrong path was sending high school graduates out into the world who couldn't read a menu or balance a checkbook. This state must stay the course and not abandon education-reform efforts.
Most voters agree.
A recent poll showed that 80 percent of the voters surveyed favor statewide tests to determine whether academic standards are being met. And 71 percent believe students should be required to pass a state proficiency test to graduate. No, and that's why legislators have had to refine the original legislation. This year's legislative session is no exception. Lawmakers in both chambers support a system of rewards and punishments to help struggling schools meet state standards.