RE: Exemptions to STAR and other standardized testing

Double Bravo for JS and Nancy,
First of all - not many parents know you can exempt your kids. I was lucky to find out from a relative just in time to excuse my daughter. So what good is being able to excuse children from the tests - if nobody knows about it? The fact that parents have an option should be made known to them. My daughter was extremelly greatful to be excused and had a wonderful and productive time in computer lab and reading books during the testing time. She was the only child excused from testing at her school. Unfortunately I can't excuse her from all of the time that is wasted during class hours practicing to take the tests prior to the actual tests. Yes, a good portion of her time before the tests is getting ready to take the test - taking practice tests and timed tests. Not exactly what I'd think should be an integral part of her second grade curriculum. There's plenty of time to stress and test when she gets older. -Nike