Less Testing, More Teaching? | Patch PM

Stories worth talking about tonight:

Maryland Leaders Propose Limiting Standardized Tests

A trio of Maryland bills would limit the influence of standardized testing in schools, which some educators and legislators from both parties say has become excessive and burdensome to both teachers and students.

Supporters say these bills would allow teachers to focus on providing students with a well-rounded education. Maryland State Education Association President Betty Weller said last week that standardized testing has “changed what school is about.” >>> Read more.

Missing Hoggle Kids: Mother ‘Not Competent’ to Stand Trial

For the sixth time in 17 months, a judge ruled Monday that Catherine Hoggle, who has been institutionalized since she was arrested in September 2014 following the disappearance of her children, cannot stand trial

Authorities accuse Hoggle of taking her daughter Sarah, now 5, and son Jacob, 3, from the family home. And family members are no closer to knowing the children’s fate more than a year after their mentally ill mother took them. >>> Read more.

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Commuter Complaints About Rt. 210 Trucks Leads to Sting

• Calls from residents and drivers in Prince George’s County led to a state crackdown focused on dump trucks and other trucks.

Plane Returns to BWI After Possible Bird Strike: Report

• Southwest flight 484 was taken down once officials said the plane may have been hit by birds.

Maryland Lawmakers Hear Debate Over End of Life Act

• Should terminally ill patients be able to choose when to end their lives? Maryland could become fifth state to allow it.

Patch PM shares a few of the day’s must-read items from our Maryland network. The Patch community platform covers communities across the state.