I usually just observe students blog posts on the Fremd High School American Studies Ning, but just had to comment on a recent student post that talked about a topic I am passionately frustrated about - the way the ACT test is being used in Illinois. Our students get that the way the ACT test is being used in our state is incorrect. They see the effects of periodic ACT practice in their classrooms and they don't like it. They don't see the benefit. So, I proposed an idea that they take action and show their parents, the school board, and Illinois politicians that they've had enough and to show why, using current research and discussions on high-stakes testing. I did this knowing full well that their instructor, Gary Anderson, would not be offended by my suggestion or look at it as an intrusion into his class as he wants his students to really get a feel for what it means to blog and have others comment on their posts. Please take a moment to read this important student blog post as well as the comments. My response is there and also below.

"I think it would be great for all of you to start a letter writing campaign to our politicians, school boards, and even create an open letter to your parents about this topic. Better yet, how about a class research project on this topic? Imagine this: Your class(es) create and publish a position paper that would highlight the most current research and discussion on this topic. You would present it to the D211 school board, then, perhaps, on to Springfield for action. This is a topic that is so important and needs to be addressed by the people it affects the most - you! Educators have been very vocal about this topic for the last decade, but those who should be listening are not or choose to ignore the research for the reasons listed by Mr. Anderson. This would be the first time, I believe, that student opinion, backed by research, could be used to actually transform Illinois testing and move us away from this current ilk that permeates every public school in Illinois. You could create and use a class wiki to keep all of your research. This would be an online place for true collaboration on this project.

As a former school board member in another community, I was shocked by the number of people who were, and still are, uninformed about the topic of high-stakes testing. Politicians, Journalists, and our parents need to be educated. Students often say their best teachers are their parents. I believe teaching is a two-way street and that parents have a lot to learn from our children. Use what you are learning from American Studies and show our school boards, politicians, and parents that you are very well versed on this topic and can help them all make good decisions about testing that will benefit all Illinois students. You can also remind politicians and school board members that you can or will, soon, be able to vote. What do you think?"