Published: October 13, 2007 12:36 am            

State testing — what scores mean for us

MCTs.

Subject Area Testing.

From the time we reach second grade until we throw our caps into the air at graduation, these words are constantly drilled into our heads. We often sigh and shake our heads; however, many of us do not understand the importance of these tests. The results of these tests not only determine school funding, but can make a complete difference in the quality of students and the educational experience received while in school.

Perhaps what makes students enjoy Meridian High is their love, if not for the curriculum, for the activities and sports. Twice, we have been named South State Champs, and this is great publicity for our school. It also helps our great young men and women get sports scholarships to pursue their education to the furthest degree.

Should Meridian High School’s rating ever drop to a Level 1, the government would take over our school. This means funds for sports, clubs, and other activities we have come to love would be cut. Thus, this would stunt the growth of scholarships given to Meridian High School students.

In addition, being a Level 1 could prevent business growth and development in the city of Meridian. When companies consider relocating, the first things they look at are nearby school districts and their scores. If the scores in an area are not good, the city is passed by, and a new location is considered. In fact, we have already lost out in the city of Meridian because of our good, but not the best, test scores.

Meridian was considered to receive a Toyota supply plant; however, when the company saw the high test scores of students in Tupelo, they chose Tupelo as the site for their plant. In reality, Meridian could become a much more industrious town if the test scores were top-notch!

Furthermore, state testing, to a point, can be misleading. Not only are we given a single chance to display our skills and knowledge, but the test is graded on percentages. The students are divided into eight categories, and each category must have a passing percentage. If one category does not pass, then the school is not considered to have made Adequate Yearly Progress, or AYP. If all students take this test, then why should one’s ethnicity, gender, or economic status matter? Shouldn’t our school be graded on its students’ knowledge as a whole instead of insignificant categories?

Therefore, it is no wonder that test scores are given such emphasis. It affects not only our school, but our city and state as a whole. Until we strive to be the best we can be, the city of Meridian will quickly diminish.

In no way should we allow this to happen. For that reason and many more, I propose that we strive as a school to raise our Level 3 to a Level 5 and live up to our utmost potential. Until we do, the very lifestyle we know will be at stake.



Samra Ward is a sophomore at Meridian High School. E-mail her at hoddytoddygrl89@aol.com.

        

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