Making the Grade: Year One of the Florida Standards Assessment Test

FSA3When my kids entered 3rd grade this year, I knew they would be taking a test. A test that would assess how well they are learning according to Florida’s academic standards.

I will admit that in each grade prior, I was relieved that my kids were not old enough to participate. I could feel a difference in the level of stress in and around the school during testing time.

This year it is an even bigger deal because the tests have changed from the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) to the Florida Standards Assessments (FSA), adding another level of uncertainty because it is new to everyone.

Third grade is a big deal. It’s the first year the students begin taking these assessments. It’s also one of the two years where these test scores can actually prevent a student from moving to the next grade.

FSAAnd here. Now. I am one of the families being tested. My kids are third graders, and I believe THEY ARE READY TO TAKE THIS TEST, the FSA! I’ve watched them prepare for this, not just the last few months, but all of their years in school (and years at home) leading up to this.

I can picture my son’s kindergarten teacher cheering him on as he takes the test. She invested so much time in him that year and helped him so much with self-confidence. I can also see my daughter’s 2nd grade teacher gently reminding her not to talk herself out of a correct answer by overanalyzing.

I could choose to focus on all the things that are wrong with our public education system, or I could be thankful for all the wonderful things that are happening. Our teachers are working hard to help our students succeed. There is no denying that this year, it is a huge test. In my case for both of my third graders, the teachers are teaching beyond that. I am confident that my children’s teachers past and present are teaching them beyond the standards of this or any test. There is a wide focus in our classrooms and balance. As they open their test booklets, my kids will feel equipped to do their best!

I don’t know how I really feel about testing, but I do know standards are necessary and aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. As a parent, I want to know how well our system is working; how well our teachers are teaching or how well our students are learning. Maybe the FSA is the right way to do that, maybe it’s not. I am still learning in this first year of its existence. I am giving it a chance. I think this attitude will help keep me calm as a parent, and prevent the possibility of any transfer of undue anxiety onto my kids. In my grade book, my kids and their teachers have already “made the grade”!

KeepCalm

My advice to other parents:

Be educated. Don’t just talk to other moms, read articles online, and worry. The more I have learned, the more comfortable I have become. Even if your kids are in first or second grade, it’s not too early! A great resource is: www.FSAssessments.org

If you have questions or concerns, I think it’s OK to talk to your teachers or your administration. My teachers and administrators have been happy to answer my questions and have helped me understand everything much better. If you really want to see change, it’s probably best to contact your legislature. Find out who your elected officials are by clicking here.

 

Kathy Waller
Kathy is a Georgia girl who followed her surfer husband Chuck to the beaches of Jacksonville where she became mom to elementary-aged twins Sophie and Will, preschooler Lainey, and baby Henry! Stay at home mom and avid volunteer, Kathy truly believes in teaching her children to embrace the community, to depend on each other, and to serve one another. Kathy served for a decade in the Junior League of Jax and is in her third year serving on the executive board of the PTA where her children attend school. She is very active in her church, Neptune Baptist and has been involved in the MOMS Club of Jax Beach for over eight years. Kathy has learned so much in her career as a software consultant for Oracle, but is always amazed at the skills she has acquired as a mom and community volunteer. Kathy also enjoys running and completed her last marathon (#9) in 2011, but always wonders if she shouldn't just do another to have a good even 10 under her belt!

1 COMMENT

  1. LOL, you have no idea what you’re talking about when it comes to standardized tests and assessing our children. Please read some information from a mother who actually KNOWS what she’s talking about-https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/answer-sheet/wp/2015/03/03/mom-why-my-kids-wont-be-taking-the-new-florida-standards-assessment-test/

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