Listen up Mainstream Media. Teachers Know How to Assess.

We do not need better tests.

We do not need teachers to grade Pearson's tests.

We do not need any of these tests.

And we do not need an alternative - the alternative is what we once did and can still do - real learning assessed through portfolio, project, performance and more.

Teacher friends, we must make sure this message is clear - teachers know how to assess - mainstream media via the corporations and ALEC have created mass amnesia - they seem to have forgotten that teachers once upon a time actually assessed their learners. Isn't this convenient? Without teachers viewed as capable of assessing, how quickly the shift to teacher as technician will occur.

The general public keeps asking - but without the tests - how will we know? The reporters say, but is there an alternative? Oh dear oh dear what will we do???? Pearson? Can you help us???

Teachers - remind them of what you know how to do.

They have left the teacher completely out of the discussion - this is intentional. Remind them that we are HERE and we know how to assess, evaluate, plan and teach.  My students also know how to collaborate with me as they reflect on their own learning - together we are able to determine student strengths, attempts and next steps. And guess what - my students' parents communicate with me to determine what is best for their children. Together, as a community we support our learners.  Pearson is not a part of my community. Neither is ALEC. I need them to get out of my way so I can make professional decisions about my students.

I am not going anywhere - and each day teachers are getting louder - we will be heard. We are professionals who care about our learners. I stand firm. Just try me. I'll be in DC from April 4-7.

Join us mainstream media. I dare you. Come and listen to some real educators, students and citizens share what they know - broadcast it to the world and end this mass amnesia.