Test Exclusions Develop Into “Test Scandal”

Abstract

Many states use test results to hold schools accountable, with the stakes for children, teachers, and administrators becoming higher. High school principal Kimberly Reeves had to show substantial progress in raising achievement scores to keep her school off the state's low-performing list and to help the district maintain positive community relations. Reeves declined to test several high school students who were failing core courses and would be required to retake them the following year. The principal had not considered this a formof cheating, even though it ran counter to the spirit of the state testing guidelines. Her decision could have unintended consequences for the district and the local economy.