STAR TESTING

THE IMPORTANCE OF HIGH PARTICIPATION RATES

An always controversial area of discussion among charter school advocates is that of standardized testing. While it is typical that charter schools have multiple forms of assessment, the general public and the legislature see the STAR program as the standardized system by which to gage the success of public school students statewide. Newspaper reporters also focus attention on participation rates and legislators mention low participation rates when they seek to curtail the flexibility of charter programs.

People on both sides of the issue have well thought out, passionately held beliefs. CANEC recognizes your legal right to request that your child(ren) not participate in standardized testing. However, we are asking you to consider the practical reasons why it is important that all charter school students participate in STAR testing.

These reasons include:

v Unlike other public schools, charter schools are accountable for the academic achievement of their students. The initial charter law gave us increased flexibility in exchange for greater accountability. Due to general public opinion, having full participation in the STAR program is a key way to prove that your school is working.

v Every time a charter school student participates in the STAR program it helps to strengthen public support for charter schools. The public wants proof that taxpayer money is being spent wisely. Charter schools are subject to increased press and legislative attention so our participation rates are very closely scrutinized.

v In order for charter school teachers to participate in the API awards, at least 90% or 95% of the school’s students, depending on grade level, must take the Stanford-9. Help charter school teachers receive recognition for their hard work and dedication.

The STAR program is a standardized way to indicate how well schools, students, and their families are doing in comparison to others across the state. They are used by legislators and policy makers as a standardized way to evaluate schools and as an indication of compliance with regulatory guidelines.