"As a counselor, I am well aware of the trials and tribulations that my students face. On a daily basis, I am reminded that my students have so much more to worry about than just getting a proficient score on a state standards test.

"I am consistently forced to set aside the mental health and well being of my students because they are too busy preparing for state tests, taking state tests, and then worrying about whether or not their school will be standing as-is the following year.

"Our students are well aware of the stresses that are placed upon them and the extreme expectations set upon them by the state. Many of my students are too concerned with their home lives -- the stress their parents face, the incarceration of their parents, their family's financial situation, and life in general. It is unjust to only judge a student's worth and a teacher's worth using a single test and to place unbelievable expectations on a child because of ESEA. They are children!

"We must remember that, yes, students need a strong education, and they will get it, but they also need support and a chance to breathe and live. They need to know that, as teachers, parents, educators, and supporters, we are here for them personally, socially, and academically -- we're not just around to teach to a test and to create pressure based upon a piece of legislation.

"We are here for our students in every way. We should care for them, nurture them, and educate them. Doing so will create the best students of all. ESEA allows only for testing and pressure -- this does not create successful students."

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