Ok, it's time to look at the BVSD candidates answers on the effectiveness of the CSAP test.
So how do we measure the progress of our kids in school? Do we take a holistic view to get a full measure their progress? No. We give them a grade. At the end of the semester it all comes down to that one little letter. And much of that grade is based on memorization of small facts (what year did the Civil War start) rather than on discussions of the overall picture (spell out the major steps that led to the start of the Civil War).
But oddly enough, we don't have teachers, board members, etc all complaining that students should have more essay and less multiple choice tests. We don't have anyone crying for a thorough synopsis of each students effort at the end of the semester. Nope, everyone is fine with using a letter to grade the students.
But heaven forbid we should grade the schools. Oh no, we can't do that. Instead we should..., well no one ever gets around to what they think would be better. Yes the CSAPs are imperfect but they're a lot better than nothing. And the combination of CSAPs and open enrollment is the one thing (pair actually) that has actually led to bad schools being improved.
So with that, let's look at the answers.
Laurie Albright D- : Laurie wants accountability and would provide it by reducing the importance of the CSAP. No word with what she would do to actually provide accountability...
Edward Gazvoda A+ : Wow, a really strong answer about how BVSD is failing over half of our students. Ed, honesty like this means the teacher's union will fight you tooth and nail - but I applaud your honesty.
Helayne Jones F : Helayne - yes the CSAPs are a school-based assessment. That is exactly what they are supposed to be (you have been awake at the BVSD board meetings - correct?). Are you against school-based assessment?
Jim Reed F : Wow, doesn't even pay lip service to evaluating the schools. Jim, you've just guaranteed yourself the teacher's union endorsement - good job!
Rosabelle Rice A : Why does District G get two quality candidates while the rest spout the usual drivel? This is not fair. Excellent points, every one - and all stated succinctly.
Ken Roberge B : Ok, good answer. We do need to measure the other areas Ken lists. (It's not clear if Ken is in favor of the CSAPs and expanding them or against - he is silent on the core question.) And excellent point that the schools don't appear to make much difference.
John Satter C- : John bitch-slaps the CSAPs and then... Well that's about it. He doesn't like the CSAPs (granted, they are not normalized) and doesn't even say if he would fix them, throw them out, or ???
