"I teach second- and fourth-grade students with learning disabilities. I love my job, except during the week of our state-mandated test (AIMS). This is one of the hardest weeks because my students have to take the test at their grade level and not at their performance level. I have students who perform at the first- or second-grade level taking tests two-to-three grades above their ability level. This causes them so much stress that they become different kids. They cry, throw temper tantrums, and get so worked up that they make themselves sick.   

"During that week, I also get so upset that sometimes I can't eat. It hurts for me to watch my students get that stressed out.  

"I am enthusiatic about what NEA is doing for ESEA. I hope the changes will allow my students to not be stressed out anymore."

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