Seeking ways to
end the insanity
of school testing

End-of-grade testing is the driving force behind most initiatives in the public schools today. More than a few people think it is ruining education.

For example, in our local schools, science and arts teachers are now teaching math rather than their core curricula because math is on EOG tests, not science or the arts.

The North Carolina Blue Ribbon Commission on Testing and Accountability is trying to find ways to reform the end-all, end-of-grade tests required by No Child Left Behind and the North Carolina ABCs.

The commission will make recommendations on how to bring some sanity to testing. Adding more local control over testing would be a good place to start.

It must be conceded that some form of testing must remain to quantify how students do, but the negative consequences of overemphasizing testing must be considered by the higher ups who have placed this burden on school systems.

One consequence is the high turnover rate of teachers, who are fed up with the emphasis on robotic instruction rather than creative learning.

School needs to be emotionally rewarding for both teacher and student. Learning that engages both student and teacher is much more effective than cramming mindless busy work down students’ throats.

The commission has a tough job to convince decision makers that changes must be made. It can be hard to argue with statistics tossed about by the pointy heads in Washington and Raleigh, who don’t realize they’re out of touch with what happens in a real setting.

Let’s hope the commission can give some perspective about what’s really going on at ground zero – the classroom.

If the higher ups in education won’t listen, then our political leaders must force change.

Making a good
first impression

Litter sweeps are underway across the county in conjunction with Earth Day and as part of statewide clean-up efforts.

The N.C. Department of Transportation, Department of Corrections, civic clubs and municipalities are all involved in organized clean-ups, but anyone can help. The county sponsored a river sweep last weekend.

We encourage DOT and the Department of Corrections to make a concerted effort to ensure our major roadways are given the necessary attention.

The City of Whiteville has a citizens’ committee that is now organizing clean-up efforts. Large litter bags are available for anyone who wants to pitch in to clean up around their business or home (call City Hall for more details).

City residents can also place household junk by the curb and it will be picked up at no charge.

Adopt-a-Highway groups should also use the spring Litter Clean-up to rededicate themselves to their assigned stretches of highway. New Adopt-a-Highway groups are always welcome by DOT.

Maintaining clean roadsides is important in putting our best foot forward for visitors who will come through in increasing numbers as beach season nears. The importance of a good first impression cannot be overstated.