What About Science?

Today was a half-day to allow time for Professional Development (more commonly referred to as PD). Every session is different and cover various topics but today's session was focused on the results of our first PSSA benchmark test. PSSA is the standardize tests for the state of Pennsylvania. The school takes a benchmark test every 6 weeks to assess each classroom's progress.

As a result of not having made AYP for the last several years, the school has decided to focus heavily on literacy and math. We only have Science, Art, and Social Studies once a week for about 30-45 minutes. Thus, it was of no surprise that one grade level had 90.5% of it's students test under 50%. All the grades had embarrasing results that were of no surprise to anyone. The results were disheartening.

Sad is just the beggining of how I felt about the kids scores. I do not fault them for a subject they aren't being taught. Instead, I am frustrated with the constrains high-stakes testing places on schools and the unwillingess for the school to support science. As we continue with our coursework, we learn the importance and the easiness to incorporate various subjects into a lesson plan. For example, incorporating literacy in science. I believe it is important for students to learn science and find new ways of thinking.

In end, it is just sad to face the reality and think how these students are being cheated of a well rounded education.