State’s Fluency Tests Are Failing the Children

Re “Program Testing English Fluency Faulted” Dec. 9:

The school districts in California are in trouble again. As the laws change and demand more accountability, better test results and more effective educational programs, the districts rush to comply with the laws.

By complying with the laws and using the tests that are recommended by the state, and rushing to meet deadlines, the districts are being held accountable for something they do not control.

It’s no wonder that the districts are ready to revolt. Half of the school year is over; some of those students have been erroneously placed or misplaced in the wrong classes. There are 2 million students awaiting results for proper placement.

For many, the trauma of taking a test is great and stressful, and it’s even more so for students whose language is other than English. In testing, cultural elements also enter into the picture.

Though the law is good and well intentioned, the tests are inadequate, and as the California Teachers Assn. president said, so cumbersome and expensive as to be ridiculous.

In the late ‘60s, lawsuits were filed against school districts because of faulty testing. Examiners did not understand the culture of all the students, resulting in the misplacement of students in classes for the mentally retarded. These children were in limbo in educational programs in which they did not receive an education or develop any basic skills. History seems to be repeating itself; parents may have to seek relief in the courts again.

Enriqueta Lopez Ramos

Santa Ana