Letter To The Editor: Opt Out If It's Best For Your Kids

Dear Parents and Guardians:

Over the past few years, parents of our students have become increasingly aware of the high-stakes consequences associated with the ELA and Mathematics tests for 3rd thru 8th grade children. Last year, many Levittown parents opted to refuse the tests for their children.

While it would be inappropriate for an individual teacher to advise a parent on “opting-out” of the state tests, we hope that you can use this informational letter to help you form your own decision regarding your child’s educational experience. Please refer to the links below for more information about your right to refuse the test.

The Levittown United Teachers, as well as its state affiliate NYSUT, fully supports a parent’s right to choose what is best for their children and a parent’s right to refuse the state standardized tests if the parent believes state testing is inappropriate and/or may be harmful to his or her child.

While the New York State Education Department’s over-reliance on state tests creates unfortunate consequences for students, teachers and schools, please know that we value your children as more than a test score.

Sincerely,
John F. Caulfield, President
Levittown United Teachers

Informational Links:

• http://www.nysut.org/resources/special-resources-sites/all-kids-need/take-action
• http://www.nysape.org
• https://www.facebook.com/pages/Long-Island-Parents-and-Teachers-Against-Standardized-Testing-APPR/211021932327048
• http://www.facebook.com/groups/Longislandoptout/