Standardized Testing

The overall idea and purpose behind standardized testing is giving teachers and administration an annual review of how the education system is progressing. However, this topic has remained controversial ever since its use skyrocketed in the 2002 No Child Let Behind Act, which mandated for all 50 states to hold yearly testing. There are many pros and cons that follow these assessments, such as whether they conduct fair or unfair evaluations of teacher's work, are good or bad predictors of future success, and if they improve or do not improve student performance. These thoughts raise the question of how seriously should we be looking into these test scores to determine academic development. 

President George Bush signing the
No Child Left Behind Act

As a student, who completed almost every year of school being evaluated by standardized tests, such as the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP), ACT, SAT, and more, I do hold opinions on this topic. Some students, including myself, are simply just not the best test takers. Assessments, especially those covering a large, broad range of material, can cause lots of anxiety and unnecessary pressure. When applying to college, I was very proud of the grade point average I had earned throughout my high school career, yet my scores on the ACT and SAT did not correlate even remotely close to this number. I have always been a good student with a strong work ethic, but the stress tests like these brought me always hurt my scores. I believe many students can also relate to this ordeal. Although I believe there are positives to standardized testing, especially when used in broad circumstances, I do not think it should be the only representation used when evaluating academic growth and achievement.

The Ongoing Issue of Underpaid Teachers

Many recognize and do not deny the ongoing crisis involving teachers and their salaries, which has been occurring for quite a long time. Especially following the covid-19 pandemic, teacher turnover rates are at an all time-high due to them being overworked, yet extremely underpaid. Many have been forced to leave the career because they simply cannot support themselves, or those with families, with the salary they are making. This doesn't only just affect the teachers however, but also the school systems and every student in the classroom. School districts have unfortunately resorted to hiring unqualified instructors, tightening classrooms already at full capacity, and working longer overtime hours than ever before. In order for young learners today to become successful later on, well-trained and functional teachers are needed in the classroom. Raising teachers salary is important for everyone involved in the schools and one of the few ways to solve this immediate emergency.  

"Teachers in 1998 earned about 8 percent less than professionals with similar
education and experience. By 2015, teachers underearned their peers by 17 percent". 

Throughout my own experience in school as a student, while also being an elementary education major, it is very apparent how much time and effort teachers put into their careers. My classmates and I could always tell the difference between a teacher who was enthusiastic and wanted to be there compared to those who simply were struggling. These two types of teachers can really impact students, positively and negatively. I believe having a quality teacher is one of the biggest factors in student achievement. When school systems are having to resort to unqualified and overworked instructors, students also begin to suffer. The world's future doctor's, lawyers, scientists, etc. are all first prepared and educated by teachers. They make the largest impact on the younger generations future, yet are not making enough salary to even live a comfortable lifestyle.