Testing in Milwaukee’s Choice Schools

The issue of testing in the choice schools in Milwaukee has recently been a contentious issue, with Governor Doyle demanding a uniform state-dictated system of tests as a condition for lifting the cap on the number of children in the program.

This, in fact, seems to be a ploy to hobble the choice system rather than the result of a genuine concern for holding schools accountable.

Choice supporters, while resisting a state-imposed uniform system, have pushed for a rigorous evaluation of the system, done by social scientists.

What the choice proponents want is outlined in a document produced by George Mitchell, a long time supporter of school choice and a key figure in establishing the system in place in Milwaukee.