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Looking at Progress

Another benefit of annual testing is that it allows us to identify successful schools. Surprisingly often, two schools in the same neighborhood produce varying results. Students in one school excel, while those in the other stagnate. Testing brings these differences to light. It shows us the strengths of a successful school, which can be used as a model elsewhere, and tells us where and how to intervene in the failing school. Children who have a bad teaching experience take years to catch up. It is better to intervene early. That's why No Child Left Behind calls for annual testing in grades three through eight. This will permit the early identification of problems and allow rapid corrective action.

When you invest in a business, you demand a rigorous, objective account of its performance; and you also demand that its performance be excellent. When you invest your taxes in a school, where children's futures are at stake, you should demand nothing less. Take action—and demand positive results.

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Last updated—December 17, 2004 (jer)