Saugerties parent poll: Opting out of standardized tests

(Photo by Dion Ogust)

Many educators expect more students to opt out of the Common Core grades 3-8 English and math tests than in previous years.

“I would urge parents at this point in time to opt out of testing,” said New York State United Teachers President Karen Magee in an Albany radio interview. “I think we’re going to see an increased reliance and many more parents engaging in that opt-out movement.”

According to The Washington Post, an estimated 60,000 students opted out statewide last year. This year, the number could climb to 250,000, according to Magee.

Superintendent Seth Turner is also expecting more opt-outs. In a letter posted to the district’s website, he said, “If left unchecked, our district has the possibility of beginning a trend of not meeting participation standards” — referring to the minimum of 95 percent participation in the tests. His letter went on to say the district could lose local control and aid if it were to fall under that threshold, which groups opposed to the tests dispute or minimize.

Here’s a poll question for Saugerties parents of children in grades 3-8 specifically.

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