I do in fact feel that it is necessary that districts meet annual goals because all programs should be constantly making efforts towards improvement. The problem is the fact that these standards have been instituted through federal law. There doesn't seem to be enough assistance/funds (by the federal gov.) when regarding struggling districts as a result of social forces. The 2007 federal education budget was $63 billion, which resulted in the elimination of 42 nation wide programs (resource centers, vocational programs, schools, ect.) How are low scoring districts, who are usually deprived of the crucial materials needed for reaching these standards, expected to reach them is such little time? A system must be devised that does not punish the schools, educators and students that are in need of much needed help. The closing of schools and distribution of low scoring students is not the answer.
It would be much more affective if states and districts were able to implement other forms of assessment that included portfolios, exhibitions, student conferences along with the required testing by the state and national governments. The present emphasis on standardized testing has caused great stress on both educators and students. Students of not benefiting from spending countless hours on test related material. This is taking away from the material that well rounded students should be getting through a properly constructed curriculum.
Let me know what you think - whether you agree or disagree.
Here are two links that provide some more info and possible direction for this problem
