We want higher standards for all kids, and kids who are left out of the testing loop are left out of the curriculum loop. The mandate, which grew out of 1991 revisions to the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, requires that all public school children be tested in the same way, regardless of disability. We do not endorse the idea that there ought to be a subgroup with a different level of expectations. We think we're cheating the youngsters if we set a lower standard. Many special education youngsters can achieve at a level equal to their non-disabled peers.
Some districts plan to hire substitute teachers to help the special education students.
Parents oppose testing Marjorie Fondulas and Larry Kuhse, both parents of teen-age sons in special education classes in Groton, think the change will do more harm than good. An aide will interpret questions and help him to write his answers. He has never had to take the tests before. We don't have a choice, because it's a legal requirement. The teacher wanted to make sure Nick doesn't feel beaten down by the test, so the tutor will do everything in her power to make it as easy as possible for him.