Group criticizes proficiency tests
A YSU professor said he will soon reveal research he compiled to show the invalidity of the fourth-grade test

by Amanda C. Davis
Vindicator Trumbull Staff
February 1, 2000

- WARREN -

"Storm the Statehouse."

That was the advice to the audience Monday night from Maggie Hagan, a Garfield Elementary School teacher, who organized a forum on proficiency testing in Ohio schools. The audience in the school's packed gymnasium gave Hagan a standing ovation for her efforts in bringing together Mahoning Valley educators, lawmakers and residents for a discussion that centered on fourth-grade proficiency testing. No one spoke in favor of the tests.

No input: Penny Arnold, assistant professor of graduate studies at Ashland University, told the group the Ohio Department of Education contracts with a company to design proficiency tests and questioned why teachers don't have a say in how they are developed, administered and scored. Arnold said she has given the tests to several professionals she knows, and many were unable to answer all the questions. Some questions are based on information learned in grades 8 and 10, she said. Statistics she provided for 1999 proficiency test show Ohio fourth-graders scored an average in writing; 57 percent in science; 65 percent in math; 79 percent in reading; and 81 percent in citizenship.

Proof of invalidity: Randy Hoover, professor in Youngstown State University's department of teacher education, said he will soon reveal newsworthy research he compiled from all Ohio school districts to show the invalidity of the fourth-grade test. Questions on the test are subjective and measure students' honesty, sociability and psychological well-being. Salem resident Steve Rea said. One test question he cited asks students to decide who they'd tell first if an employee of a company who was caught stealing. Rea was instrumental in an Ohio Supreme Court ruling that allows the public to see proficiency tests and to administer them to friends and school board members.

Alleges threats: During his fight to make the tests public documents, Rea said, the Ohio Board of Education threatened him with fines and imprisonment. "What are they trying to hide?" he questioned. He said he believes in accountability for teachers and students, but not if tests are "convoluted" and administered.

Seeking moratorium: Marc Dann, candidate for state senator in the 32nd District, said he wants to see a moratorium on the tests and told the audience to press legislators for their stance on the issue. Hagan's brother, state Sen. Robert F. Hagan of Youngstown, D-33rd, said he plans to introduce a resolution later this week asking that testing at all grade levels be stopped until it can be proved the tests are effective in measuring students' learning. Robert Hagan said he believes the tests have "no worthwhile impact on educating our children" and urged the audience to write to lawmakers.

House resolution: State Rep. Christopher Verich of Warren D-66th, said he will consider introducing a companion resolution in the House. McDonald teacher Lou Rene Church has 28 years experience as a fourth-grade teacher and said the tests have negative effects on pupils and teachers. "I can non longer teach what I think the students need," she said. "I have to teach them what the state tells me to."

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