Students groan as extra test added to roster

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) -- The interim Bridgeport school superintendent wants to test kids now to help build on the school reforms. The idea is to help schools be prepared to meet the kid's needs.

The students who spoke with News 8 were not happy to hear about another test being added. Some parents say they're worried all the testing is taking away from the learning, but school officials say this latest test is important for the future of education.

"There's already tests for math and reading, so I don't see why adding more tests is appropriate," said Jocelyn Villacres.

School administrators say the test results will provide them with the information they need to design a new curriculum for next year. Results from the test, taken the first week in June by students in grades 3 through 11, will be returned within the week.

"What do you say to folks who say there are already too many tests in the district? Is this really necessary," News 8 asked Sandra Kase, the Chief Administrative Officer for Bridgeport schools.

"Well that's a good question, because I believe we do have too many tests," she replied.

She says the district plans to streamline tests and have a culminating test to monitor progress. While the test will focus on math and reading skills, Kase says the test prep will not take away from instruction in other subjects.

"We're not sending test prep materials to school, we're not asking them to cram, we're asking teachers and teachers are very willing to teach to continue to teach and to continue to teach the full curriculum," she explained.

Some parents say even if it does mean their kids will need to spend more time on reading and math, if it leads to a more effective curriculum next year, they're all for it.

"I think it's a great idea because that way we know where the kids stand and if they need extra help," said Maria Ayala.

School officials say the test results will also help determine what they'll teach students in summer school. They expect up to 5,000 students to be enrolled in summer school.