As an elementary school teacher, I know that often times children have trouble learning basic reading and math in a classroom setting. Many times students require individual attention. That’s why I’m spending the day here at the General Assembly in Raleigh on the first day of session – trying to show legislators just how we can help students here in North Carolina.
In my school, Clement Elementary in Sampson County, a pilot program is underway to study the use of individual assessment technology that allows teachers to track how students are learning throughout the year – not just at the end with end-of-grade tests. That allows teachers like myself to focus on what each child needs to stay on track.
Gov. Perdue wants to expand this program throughout North Carolina, because every child deserves these wonderful resources. We know that if a student masters the basics early in life, they are much more likely to graduate from high school and succeed after that.
I hope you will join me and Gov. Perdue in calling on the state legislature to fund individual assessments for students.