YES
Jamal Halawa
Somerville High School teacher, parent of three children
What is it we want a high school graduate to be able to do? Do we want critical thinkers who can solve problems and communicate with people from different walks of life? Or do we want young people who can pass a test?
As a Somerville High School teacher of English learners, I believe that problem solving, communication, persistence, and curiosity are all more important than being good at standardized tests. Policy makers in most states now agree. Only about 12 states have graduation tests in place now, down from a high of 27.