Wednesday, June 18, 2003

Things haven't changed that much in the 20 years since I attended high school. I had to learn the material, and pass the numerous tests, or I wouldn't graduate.

Tests will always be a part of the educational process. To believe that in the "real world" people aren't graded or judged on their performances is to kid yourself (at work, I don't get promoted due to my "best efforts" but for my results).

Maybe teachers need to be held accountable for the successes (or failures) of their respective classes. Rewarding teachers for their teaching skills (instead of their tenure), based on their students' accomplishments, may turn this educational system around. But given the liberal political control of the Department of Education, I am not holding my breath.

Steven Christensen

Fayetteville