To the editor: As a former kindergarten teacher in the Los Angeles Unified School District and a National Board Certified teacher, I completely agree with educators and parents who oppose the use of the DIBELS standardized test on transitional kindergarten students. 4 years old. (“LAUSD Parents, Teachers Uproar Over Timed Academic Tests for 4-Year-Olds,” May 14)
Kindergarten teachers already have to administer the DIBELS test to students when they begin kindergarten. And even at the beginning of kindergarten, many of the things we need to assess are not appropriate for these students.
Most teachers end up evaluating students' incoming literary skills using their own assessments, since we can get more appropriate information that really helps our instruction.
The value of giving DIBELS in TK does not justify the loss of instructional time. Contrary to the description of this test as a “typical classroom activity that is naturally integrated into the day,” DIBELS is actually administered one-on-one in a quiet environment so that students can hear the questions and teachers can hear the answers. .
Call me cynical, but I feel like teachers are forced to take this test just to justify the enormous amount of money spent on it. Has anyone consulted with teachers to determine if this test has any value to them as a guide to instruction?
Mary-Janice Rodriguez, Long Beach
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To the editor: I found your article on testing TK students timely as schools are in testing season.
Using a test in a way for which it is not designed highlights the overemphasis that public education leaders now place on testing.
As a former high school teacher and parent of a current high school student, I can attest that public education is limiting itself to creating good test takers instead of critical thinkers and problem solvers.
I am saddened to learn of the extension of this policy to 4 year olds. I can't think of a better way to kill the joy of learning.
Jason Y. Calizar, Torrance
