Testing

     Tomorrow the students will take a writing test. This is not related to social studies or any other subject. It is a mock writing test, so it actually doesn't count towards any grades (which the students know). The writing test will take up the first three periods of school, which means some students will miss social studies, math and an elective, but others might miss science, language arts and an elective. It is also apparently very expensive so the students should take it seriously (even though they know it doesn't count for a grade).

     When it comes to public education everyone wants to have input. From legislators, public officials, teachers, parents to students. Everyone thinks something is important. The budget is tight, so teachers were told that they couldn't have personal refrigerators, lamps, or other items that require being plugged in because they are trying to save money through the electric bills. But, then, someone decided to take out all of the manual pencil sharpeners and give each room an electric one that must be plugged in. I am guessing that these two decisions were made by different people, but I could be wrong.

     This test is another example of conflicting interests. The teachers must cover the standards but take time out of their classes to give a test. The students have to know the material, but they have to be able to answer essay questions on standardized tests. I am not sure who decided to give the test, or pay the University of Georgia to grade them. However, it seems that there must be an easier way that doesn't impact so many people. Perhaps make it mandatory for each teacher to have students write essays in class? They could dictate how long the essays must be and provide a rubric to grade them. Then teachers could pair the essays with the curriculum and fit them into their schedule.

     Of course, I don't have all of the details on this writing test, but it seems like there must be a better way to achieve whatever the goal of the test is.

**Edit**
They only missed two classes.