There are a growing numbers of parents, teachers, and principals who are dismayed by the number of standardized tests that CPS is imposing from kindergarten on up. Some of theses tests were developed initially to diagnose learning problems, like the DIEBELS test. Teachers would conduct it to better understand why a student was doing poorly in reading. Then it become a mandatory screening test. Now we have numerous tests, some taking 60 minutes even in K-2.

There is a Facebook page for "Opt-Out Chicago." : http://www.facebook.com/groups/427060203997873/

On Nov. 2 there will be a forum testing:

CPS Over-Testing Community Forum

Monty Neill, Fair Test
Julie Woesthof, PURE

Friday, Nov. 2 from 7 pm to 8:30 pm
Butler Reception Room
St. Xavier University
3700 W. 103rd Street

Sponsored by 19th Ward Parents, St. Xavier University School of Education, Chicago Teachers Union, 19th Ward Alderman Matt O'Shea