City Council hearing: Testing

Although standardized testing has been around for some time, implementation of the 2001 federal No Child Left Behind Act (NLCB) has led to increased emphasis on testing.  Critics have particularly condemned the use of standardized tests for making important “high stakes” education decisions for students, such as promotion or graduation, as well as sanctions or rewards for schools and educators, including school closings and firings, promotions or bonuses for principals and teachers.  This hearing will focus on questions and concerns about the impact of standardized testing on students in New York City public schools.

The Committee will also hear testimony on the following:

Res 1394-2012 – CM Jackson

Resolution calling upon the New York State Education Department, the New York State Legislature, and the Governor to re-examine public school accountability systems and to develop a system based on multiple forms of assessment which do not require extensive standardized testing.

Int. 925-2012 – CM Jackson

A Local Law to amend the New York city charter, in relation to requiring the department of education to provide data regarding the provision of arts instructional requirements.

Int. 1091-2013 – CM King

A Local law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to requiring the department of education to distribute information on college savings plans to all students.