Teacher Stories about ELA Testing in NY- Story 1

BY:  Anonymous Teacher

I am a Special Ed teacher, 3rd grade, in Queens. NY. I thought the first two days were ok- my students were prepared but I was dreading the third day because they were tired. On the 3rd day 2 students were reduced to tears because they didn't understand what they were reading. The content was too difficult and the stories did not match the curriculum. There was too much to do in too short a time. My students get special accommodations in the class, differentiated instruction, and tasks so that they can learn. Why are they forced to take this test? In NYC it is punitive at best. Students who fail go to summer school! I wish I could quit my job but I can't. I will, however, be leaving the profession ASAP.