Imagine, however, what would happen if a district like LMSD told the state to keep their money… we’d rather support teacher autonomy, enrichment opportunities and experiential learning with bake sales. Imagine.

So it comes down to the value of the test, and whether there is enough political will to do away with it and the other metrics of ‘no child left behind’, which has of course always been part of a veiled movement to dismantle public education as it exists, in favor of other educational models (vouchers, etc.). The whys and the hows and the whether-its-good-or bad would be a WHOLE other can of worms. In the end: It exists. Many stand to make a ton of money from it.

So can it be un-seated? Depends. Mostly on who makes money from not having standardized testing. Who makes money from keeping public education in it’s current (or near current) state. AND, the employer market who is the ultimate ‘customer’ of the public education system, but has become de-coupled from it.

So should the ‘Mob” fight the curriculum changes or the test? Both, I think. They have more control, though, over the former than the latter. For now. Parents, and residents, do pay 90% of those salaries and benefits and expenses. Somehow, though, that 10% funder has become the Gorilla leaving folks fearful for their jobs. That may be displaced fear. Unless the ramifications extend beyond this job into chances of getting any other job.

Hmmmm……

A wise (wo)man says a complex thing in a simple way. Consequently, you’re wiser than me. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule but I would say that the majority of teachers and administrators would resemble your synopsis. Editorially, I’d add, the good ones definitely do. Many may not be able and/or willing to express it. What do you think?