School districts are reporting big jumps in test scores on state tests.
Here is the Stoops and Kakadelis take:
1. The retests obviously make a huge difference. Let the debate begin over the move to a stronger “outcome-based” accountability system.
2. Even without the retests, some schools made impressive gains. This has very little to do with superintendents, consultants, administrators, “the system,” programs, state support, and the like. It has everything to do with teachers.
3. These test score gains must be validated with increases in NAEP scores and other measures. Otherwise, we have further evidence that North Carolina’s school accountability program is a farce.
4. Similarly, DPI continues to hurt the credibility of their testing program by making changes that result in huge shifts in test scores. A redesign of the state standards is underway, so we’ll likely see another drop-off in scores.
5. We do not have access to the content of the tests, so the rigor of the test (or lack thereof) may account for some test score increases.
6. We also do not have access to vital DPI testing data and analysis, which will be released in a few months.
7. We still cannot compare North Carolina’s results to public school performance in other states.
8. Allowing retest scores to count will essentially roll back DPI’s laudable efforts to increase standards, i.e., raise cut scores.
