Elizabeth Morris Elementary School

Posted May 24, 2007

My son started Kindergarten this year in the Cahokia School District which requires each student to take a Kindergarten entrance and exit exam. This sets up a situation for 'teaching to the test,' and stifles both creative teaching and learning. While standards and grade level criteria are valid guidelines for teaching and teaching materials, they should not compose the entire curriculum nor should they be used to segregate students before they have an opportunity to perform. Before entering Kindergarten, students should not be measured against one another or particular standards. The only criteria an entry level Kindergartner should have to posses is an eagerness to learn. Exit criteria should be based on high expectations but have room for varying learning levels. Cahokia's exam didn't allow room for varying learning levels. I appreciate the individual communication to both parents and students at E. Morris,and enjoy the many opportunities for paental involvement.
Submitted by a parent

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