ALBANY, N.Y. Aug. 7, 2013 - New York State United Teachers President Richard C. Iannuzzi issued the following statement Wednesday following the State Education Department’s release of the first test scores tied to the Common Core Learning Standards:
"Parents, students and educators worked very hard this past school year, facing numerous setbacks and challenges beyond their control as New York state rapidly introduced new tests and Common Core state standards. Despite their efforts, the scores show a significant drop from past years. The results will serve as a baseline to inform instruction going forward, while serving as a reminder that standardized testing has limitations and that results must be used thoughtfully, judiciously and in context for students and teachers," Iannuzzi said.
He added, "Now, more than ever, the voices of parents and educators must be part of the conversation, and education policies must be based on trust, collaboration and respect. Common sense should guide decision-making. As New York state moves forward toward an effective transition to the Common Core, parents and educators are counting on a solid, thoughtful implementation plan that provides the appropriate time, professional development and resources needed to achieve the high standards that all of us - parents, teachers and policymakers - want and are committed to achieving. This is how New York state can get it right."
NYSUT, the state's largest union, represents more than 600,000 teachers, school-related professionals, academic and professional faculty in higher education, professionals in education and health care and retirees. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, National Education Association and the AFL-CIO.
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