School Administrators Assn. Disappointed in Fed Decision to Move Ahead with Standardized Tests

ALBANY, NY (02/23/2021) (readMedia)-- ALBANY, NY – The School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS) supported the New York State Education Department (SED) submission of an application for a full waiver from the federal government's requirement to conduct standardized testing this spring. SAANYS and its members recognize that teaching and learning in our current environment is inconsistent at best. A statewide testing process would be extremely complex and inequitable, likely with reduced participation, and the resulting data an inaccurate reflection of what our students are actually learning and experiencing. The process as framed by USDE will not provide a comprehensive base of information on student learning loss or socio-emotional needs.

Commented SAANYS Executive Director Kevin Casey, "Teaching and learning this school year has been unconventional to say the least, and the insistence to forge ahead with a conventional testing experience for all seems illogical." Continued Casey, "The 'flexibility' in testing options offered by the USDE cannot cure the inequities imposed upon many by the pandemic. To truly understand what each student needs as we move forward, we must rely on the expertise of the local school administrators and teachers who have been working with their students each day of this unprecedented school year."

SAANYS represents over 8,000 school administrators, supervisors, and coordinators. As a professional association, SAANYS is committed to providing direction, service, and support to the membership in their efforts to improve the quality of education and leadership in New York State schools. SAANYS is affiliated with the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

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