Testing for prospective national standardized testing next week created mixed emotions across campus.
April 28 and 29, juniors and will participate in national standardized tests known as Smarter Balanced. Sophomores will undergo the STAR Life Science test.
The Smarter Balanced test this year is just a test run for the juniors, however, it will be mandatory next year. The test is aligned with the state’s Common Core standards in English and Math. This test will help create a fair test next year for all students.
Junior Natalie Tussy said, “ I think it is unfair that only juniors have to take the [Smarter Balanced test]. The timing is right before AP testing. It is inconvenient and messed up our class schedules.”
With a full plate, juniors feel stressed and are upset about being used in the state’s experiment. However, others interpret the test as just another STAR test.
“I think it is fair that we are taking the Smarter Balanced test because everyone has to take the STAR test until senior year. It makes sense that we have to take it. Next year when I am a senior, I will have my glory moment where I do not have to come to school while everyone else is taking Common Core,” said junior Monica Bayasgalan.
April 29, sophomores will be administered the STAR Life Science test.
“ I think it is pointless to have all sophomore take the life science test. The majority of the school completed Biology as a freshman, so taking the test a year later will cause very poor scores,” said sophomore Alex Singer.
With testing on April 28 and 29, April 28 through 30 have became block days. This means that instead of going to each class each day for a short amount of time, students visit each class once for 90 minutes within the three day period. Both freshman and seniors will be coming to school after testing, providing them with a late start for three consecutive days.
Singer said, “ I think it will be interesting to see the outcome of the block schedule. Classes will be longer, and many students will loose focus. The good thing taken away from the block schedule is shorter days and more time to complete homework.”
