More Than a Test Score
Because the kids we teach are so much more than a value assigned from a test score. And the same is true for the teachers too so don't use it as a tool to sell our schools.
Since you are anonymous, and there is no way to contact you, I just thought I'd put this out there. Do you have any ideas to encourage kids to do their own YouTube videos? Something like, "I'm not the value of a test score, I'm a (fill-in-the-blank) and so much more." You get the idea. One or two minutes of each child showing their intelligence and talent in a way that no number can.
One way we can rail against this particular machine is for parents and kids to opt out of the test. It may be our best chance to stop this racist, classist social experiment labeled with the progressive-sounding moniker of "education reform." Kids don't have to take the stupid test. Just let some Scott Walker-type try to mandate it!
Let's empower kids to make their thoughts and feelings known. It's their education that's being minimized to the size of test score. They can't vote, but they can sure as Shakespeare make a video and let their voices be heard. I'm hoping this message gets to you through this venue. If not, I'll keep trying. More TTaaM below.
The fact that Two Teachers and a Microphone choose to remain anonymous speaks volumes. Teachers who speak out on "education reform" feel the chill. Speaking out publicly could likely mean the end of their employment and careers. It's too bad because this very real fear prevents teachers from banding together as colleagues (forget the unions) and protecting our public schools and our profession.
According to their YouTube blurb, they say:
We are both products of LAUSD schools and have spent our careers teaching in LAUSD schools. We love what we do, and we feel that our public school teachers are compassionate, creative and critical to the intellectual and emotional success of our youth.
A couple of months ago they debuted with
Angry Teacher Raps About Getting Unjustly Fired, :
And before the election, A Call to the State:
So, Two Teachers and a Microphone, until I can meet you in the light of day, I salute you. Thank you for speaking out for our profession, public schools, and the children who attend them! You can reach me here or at Great Schools for America.
Not forgetting you, Taylor Mali. "I make a difference, what do you make?"