BENCHMARK BLUES

Well students and educators, it's that time of year again!  It's time for the annual BENCHMARK EXAMS!  Here in good ol' Arkansas, the testing has started!  Just a few days ago we were talking about the test and the idea our government has that we should have all of our students - 100% of them - scoring proficient by the year 2014.  While I assure you, I (and other teachers I know and work with) work 100% and above to make sure every student is equiped to pass not only this test, but more importantly the tests of life, there are some students who have disabilities, disadvantages, and other things that hinder them.  One morning while getting ready for school I was thinking about all of this.  It occurred to me where this "mandate" is coming from...  Our government.  While I am in many ways proud to be an American, loving and praying for my country, I must admit I am often disappointed and even disqusted at times with some things our government does or does not do.  As I began to think about the budget, immigration, and several other issues that our government wrestles with constantly, I began to laugh.  I mean, think about it!  Our government is not 100% proficient!!!  Who are they to tell teachers we should be able to get 100% of our students to score proficient or above on these tests?!  Ironic?  Absolutley!  Hello...  We almost had to have another "government shut down" just this weekend because of the budget.  As much as I want every child I ever teach to be proficient or advanced on the benchmark or any other test...  As much as I want every student I ever have to be successful in life...  As much as I strive to do "whatever it takes" to help young people reach their potential...  I am not the only factor in their success.  I've told my students the last two weeks not to stress over this test!  We have covered every standard required and then some.  We have worked dilligently all year.  They can do this if they will relax, focus and do their best.  However, for the government or anyone else to demand teachers to have every student of every class score proficient or advanced by 2014, is almost funny.  It's not realistic.  Furthermore, it's a double standard.  No institution is perfect.  None.  They are all made of people.  There's not one person who is perfect.  It's kind of like that old saying, "People who live in glass houses should not throw stones..."