After a long wait, Hayden finally received a response to the governor about her letter regarding the state tests. After reading it with me she asked, “what does that mean?” and I replied, “he’s defending the tests and probably won’t work to change them.” But we are both happy that someone did read and respond to her!
STATE OF GEORGIA
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
ATLANTA 30334-0900
Sonny Perdue
GOVERNOR
Dear Hayden:
Thank you for writing me regarding our state’s efforts to provide a quality education for students and better prepare them for future success. I understand the concerns you have shared about Georgia’s testing program and I appreciate the opportunity to respond to you.
Georgia’s testing program measures the level of student mastery of the Georgia Performance Standards, identifiesstudents failing to master content and assists school systems in identifying strengths and weaknesses in order to implement more effective programs.
I believe we must provide the best possible learning environment for children to achieve in school. Experience has shown that a carefully prepared testing program can be a valuable tool to help evaluate the effectiveness of instruction and the progress of students. I appreciate you sharing your thoughts and suggestions on this matter.
