KYG Updates Blog

STEVENS COUNTY, EDUCATION RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, too much emphasis is placed on WASL testing, rather than general studies of core subjects.
WHEREAS, the testing material needs to be related to general studies of core materials state wide, putting more emphasis on core subjects to eliminate stress on students and teachers.
WHEREAS, expenses since 1993 have exceeded $160 million for testing materials, $1.018 billion on curriculum reform for development of standards, $27 million annually for teachers’ salaries for instruction time for WASL administration.
WHEREAS, costs do not include expenses for specialized teacher training designed to boost students’ scores.
WHEREAS, language barriers, low income economics, and learning disabilities cause students to have a harder time understanding the exam
WHEREAS, standards are being lowered for students to pass the exam, because they can’t pass the WASL as it is.
WHEREAS, students are being denied graduation based on WASL Scores, and face being held back in school.
WHEREAS, alternative testing should be offered in place of the WASL exam for academic learning assessment.
WHEREAS, most of the regions’ school districts lag behind in state averages on test scores
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, We support abolishing the WASL test as a requirement for high school graduation in Washington State.

Submitted by: Heather H.