October 8, 2002

Tackling Clark on Test Results

Education Minister Christy Clark hit the airwaves with results of the Foundation Skills Assessment tests. Clark proclaimed that the reading assessment test found 29% of grade 10 students performing at less than satisfactory levels. Her Ministry's news release was carefully worded but when interviewed on Voice of BC and CFAX's Joe Easingwood show, Clark claimed that the results prove that there is a need for change. Clark's implication was that any change should be in the province's schools but the real need for change might be with the Minister.

The Ministry's website provides the results for schools throughout the province. An examination of the district by district results shows large variations from 13% (only 2 students) not within expectations for the Central Coast to 78% not within expectations for School District 93, Conseil scolaire francophone. Looking at unsatisfactory results for larger school districts shows 37% for Surrey, 23% for Victoria and 12% for West Vancouver. Instead of ill thought out comments, Clark should ponder whether a test is valid when students are told that it doesn't count for marks and is simply a requirement from Victoria. Parents should hope that no one rushes to change the school system based on a poorly administered test that produces questionable measurements. Getting Clark to admit that the tests could be flawed is like trying to tackle a greased pig.