Opt Out in 3 Simple Steps

The steps may be simple but the decision is not.

We want assessments that;  are aligned with the curriculum, use multiple methods for allowing students to demonstrate what they know and can do, and are used to adjust ongoing teaching and learning to improve students’ achievement of intended instructional outcomes.  

When standardized tests are used as a primary measure of student performance, students from low-income and minority-group backgrounds, English language learners, and students with disabilities, are more likely to be denied diplomas, retained in grade, placed in a lower track, or unnecessarily put in remedial education programs [Fair Test, 2012].

Here are a few things for you to consider.

• What is the benefit of Opting Out?

When parents opt out of the high stakes standardized testing it sends a clear message that focusing on tests doesn’t equate with true teaching and learning in the classroom.  It reinforces the fact that a parent can exercise their constitutional right to direct the education of their children.  

• How will I know if my child is learning and meeting the standards?

Teachers use a variety of your child’s materials to access your child’s progress--not just test scores.  This type of test is a one day snapshot, usually in multiple choice format, that reward quick answers to superficial questions.  They don’t measure your child’s ability to think deeply or creatively.  Good teacher observation, documentation of student work, and formative assessments provide the best measure of your child’s achievement and ability.  Learning is more than a test score.

• Which tests are eligible for opt out?

You may opt out of both PSSA and Keystone Exams. PSSA begins March 24, 2014.  

• What will my child do while other children are taking the test?

Students should attend school on testing days. The state and district cannot refuse to admit a non-test-taking student. Children will likely be required to be outside the classroom in a library or other space and engage in quiet educational activities.

• Are there consequences for my child?

They cannot threaten you or your child for exercising this right, nor can they impose punitive measures on your child for your decision to refuse the test.  Ask the school district to use other evidence of learning to make decisions for admission to gifted or magnet programs, grade or subject acceleration or deceleration, and retention.  

• Are there consequences for our teachers?

We must be sensitive to the fact that our teachers are currently feeling a very real fear about their jobs.  Teachers are directed to teach to the test.  But at the same time they are concerned with the negative effects of testing on their students and their schools- the academic culture that values test scores over rich, engaging, well-rounded instruction.

• Are there consequences for our school?

PA schools have a state and federal accountability measure that depends on a 95% participation rate for high stakes state assessments.  The Pennsylvania Department of Education will recognize the failure to meet the participation rate due to parental opt out as a special circumstance beyond the control of the district.  [PA DOE Bureau of Assessment and Accountability, Sept. 5, 2013].  The real consequence is that high stakes testing has drained the joy out of teaching and learning in our schools.  

• Why does the government want my child to take a test that doesn’t accurately assess student growth and learning?

Since the implementation of No Child Left Behind, measuring achievement gaps has become a central piece in the effort to improve schools, yet it did very little to address the “appalling inequities” that cause the gaps.  Unfortunately, these policies have done more to seriously damage our public education system by promoting the disparate impact of testing on students living in poverty and students with special needs.  

• What is the process to opt out in PA?   There are 3 simple steps!

Step One:

Contact the school principal and tell them of your intention to opt out on religious grounds. Ask for an appointment with the principal or school’s Assessment Coordinator to review the test. Tests must be made available for review at a convenient time starting two weeks prior to the start of testing. The 2014 PSSAs are available now.

Step Two:

Review the test. Spend as much or as little time as you like. They will ask you to sign a confidentiality agreement stating that you will not share information from the test or compromise the integrity of the test or testing process. Sign that form.

Step Three:

Bring a copy of a letter addressed to the Superintendent stating that you refuse to have your child take the PSSA or Keystone based on your religious beliefs.  Send the original letter to the Superintendent. (In Pittsburgh, send to Dr. Linda Lane ℅ The Director of Assessment, 341 S. Bellefield Ave, Rm. 231, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 or email to laugustin1@pghboe.net.

Sample Phrasing:

“We are writing today to formally inform the district of our decision to refuse to allow our child to participate in state standardized assessments for the 2013-2014 school year. Pursuant to Pennsylvania Code Title 22 Chapter 4, section 4.4 (d)(5) I am hereby exercising my right as a parent to have my child, [ NAME ], excused from PSSA testing [Keystone Exams] because of religious and philosophical beliefs.”

During Testing:

Students should attend school on testing days. The state and district cannot refuse to admit a non-test-taking student. Children will likely be required to be outside the classroom in a library or other space and engage in quiet educational activities.

Important:

They cannot ask for “proof” of your religious beliefs (i.e., a letter from your minister, rabbi, or imam). They cannot threaten you or your child for exercising this right, nor can they impose punitive measures on your child for your decision to refuse the test.

Opt Out of the tests that are actually harming your child and your school!   

For more information visit: www.unitedoptout.org, www.yinzercation.wordpress.com