Another teacher sickout would harm many students taking SAT, MEAP and other key exams

Tuesday, April 4, 2006

William F. Coleman III, superintendent of the Detroit Public Schools, issued the following statement about rumors of plans for another sickout by some of the District’s teachers:

“Approximately 15,000 high school students are currently taking the ACT and the MEAP High School Assessment. Another 10,000 students are sitting for the English Language Proficiency Assessment examination.  

A so-called blackboard flu, like the kind we had two weeks ago, would irreparably harm  these students. Depriving these students of even one more day of school would jeopardize the performance of many of them. The high school MEAP began on April 3 and is scheduled to continue through April 14. A sickout would deny these students optimal testing conditions for both the MEAP and the ACT. In addition, there is no room in the testing window to make up for missed exams. Poor performance on the MEAP or even an interruption of the examination may affect the AYP status of our high schools. It would also rob them of the opportunity to take the test under ideal conditions. This could in turn affect their ability to qualify for the Michigan Merit Scholarship Award. This award assists students with much needed funds for their post-secondary education.

The English Language Proficiency exam, which began on April 3, is scheduled to be administered through April 28. Like the MEAP and the ACT, the window of time for the examination has been shortened by spring break. Furthermore, some portions of the exam must be administered individually.

Teaching is a noble calling. The Detroit Federation of Teachers and its members have an obligation to enrich the lives of the children of this city – not to harm them. Teachers, put the interest of the children first. Let’s settle our differences at the negotiating table.”