‘Opt-outs’ expected to rise

The controversial state standardized testing program begins next week, and hundreds, if not thousands, of local parents are expected to instruct their children to refuse the tests, a decision that has come to be known as opting out.

While the tests for students in third through eighth grades in English Language Arts and math have been in place for a decade, the opt-out movement began three years ago with the implementation of exams tied to the Common Core standards.

“It’s an act of civil disobedience, if you want to call it that,” said Heather Umhafer, a Seaford parent, whose fifth-grade son at the Manor School will refuse the tests for the third year. “Most parents agree that the kids are being tested way too much, and these scores are being so heavily relied on.”

Last year, at least 10 percent of students in each grade refused the test in Seaford, ranging from 11 percent on the third-grade ELA exam to 46 percent on the sixth-grade math test. Districtwide, a quarter of eligible students did not take the test, exceeding Levittown and Wantagh, which were each at 16 percent.

John Striffolino, Seaford’s assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, said the district had already received several letters from parents saying that their children would not be taking the tests. Striffolino said there is no “opt out” provision, and the district fulfills its obligation to give everyone a test. “We do put a test in front of everyone, because that’s what we’re supposed to do,” he said, adding that those who don’t take it are marked as refusals.

In Seaford, students who do not take the test may read quietly, Striffolino said. Umhafer said that she appreciates that the district offers that alternative. “You count your blessings where you can,” she said, “because in some other districts they’re not so receptive.”

The Levittown School District has no official policy, but students who refuse the test are taken to another room. Marianne Adrian, who has two sons who will not take part, said the district has been accommodating. “I think our district is very respectful of parental wishes,” she said. “My own personal experience has been a good one.”