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| Reaction by NYSUT
to release of 4th and 8th grade English Language Arts (ELA) test results
June 3, 2004 "The results released today are mixed. We are disturbed by the overall decline in fourth-grade ELA scores after years of steady progress. We need to get to the bottom of why 4th grade achievement has flattened out - and fix it. "Middle school scores improved slightly. While that is encouraging, school districts are still waiting for a comprehensive plan to improve student achievement in the middle grades. "As we review the scores, we should also remember that many districts continue to demonstrate excellence. Others are holding their own at solid levels. "In looking for answers to why, we note that last year state funding to education declined by about $200 million. Education cuts forced districts to increase class sizes, eliminate teaching positions and cut remedial classes for students who are struggling. Today's 4th grade scores very likely reflect New York 's diminished financial commitment and raise questions about how much longer school districts can keep doing more with less. "We need the Legislature and the Governor to step forward and give schools what the courts have ordered - the resources to ensure a sound, basic education for every child." Antonia Cortese NYSUT, the largest union in New York State, represents more than 500,000 classroom teachers and other school employees; academic and professional faculty at the state's community colleges, State University of New York and City University of New York; and other education and health professionals. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO. |
CONTACT: NYSUT Media Relations and Communications. (518) 213-6000, Ext. 6313. E-Mail: mediarel@nysutmail.org. |
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