EQAO

  Yeah the laptop is home! It's not as easy, or as fun, trying to write on the iPad. I love everything else about it but not trying to type. It's always trying to put in words it thinks makes sense but in reality have nothing to do with the subject matter. Oh well happy thoughts only today.

  This week Riley, who is in grade three, starts his standardized tests. In Ontario they do them in grades 3, 6 and 9. Language and math only. Supposedly to make sure the teaching methods are working and to assess any changes that need to be made by the Ministry of Education.

  Now I'm not a fan of standardized tests. Some kids are smart but not great test takers. Especially in grade 3 where they haven't quite gotten the skill set yet to analyze and manage their time. In fact some kids still can't tie their shoes properly at age nine.

  Also testing like this doesn't take into account other abilities the child might have. If the child is a "think outside of the box" kid well their scores can be awful. That doesn't reflect either the child or the teacher.

  For the past two days we have received a total of three emails and three voice mails about the testing. Reminders about how important it is for the students to get a good nights sleep, healthy breakfast and nutritious snacks in their lunches. Also how important it is that the children attend every day.

  No one has ever sent us an email once, let alone three times, telling us how important sleep and healthy food is to our child's education throughout the school year. It only seems to be important over the next week or so. The amount of emphasis on these tests is mind boggling.

  I try, not always successfully, to send Riley to school every day with a healthy lunch that will help him be the best he can be. As I'm sure most parents do. Are the next week and a half more important than any other school day?

  I guess so.

  Ang