Program helps students with test

Janine Marnien

Crescenta Valley High School teacher Lisa Reed was concerned about

the 68 sophomores that have yet to pass the High School Exit Exam.

Along with Co-principal Linda Evans, Reed helped start a new

program at the school to help prepare stu- dents who wanted to enroll

for the next time they take the exam.

“It’s the only standardized test that directly affects a student,”

she said.

“It’s a high risk test, and that’s why we’ve taken it so

seriously.”

The program began this summer, and involves other students who

have passed the exam acting as tutors.

So far, student Suzie DaSilva is enjoying the class.

“I hope I pass it because I really want to graduate,” she said.

Suzie is part of the first class directly affected by the exam.

Students scheduled to graduate in 2004 who do not pass both the

English and math sections of the exam will not receive a high school

diploma.

“They should have a class like this because we’re the first year

to have to take it,” she said.

“We need to be prepared and know what to expect.”

For her part, tutor Elizabeth Kim doesn’t mind giving up part of

her summer vacation to help her fellow students.

“I get to know people better,” Elizabeth, 16, said. “It’s like

bonding time.”

All tutors do earn community service hours for their work, but

Reed said she is impressed by their dedication.

“The students wouldn’t get the special attention they do every day

if it weren’t for the tutors helping me,” she said.

“The tutors help keep them on task.”

Two sessions are offered -- an early morning session offers

instruction and review in English, and a class directly following

focuses on math. Students have daily class assignments, homework and

an occasional quiz, similar to the exam.