Students hate common core ‘to the core’

Freshman Zachary Sheehan takes a Scantron test. Most classes took their pre-tests on Scantrons, like the class in which Sheehan took his test. Though teachers easily graded these Scantrons, they, along with students, still feel that pre- and post-tests are a waste of time.

Nathan Zhang

Freshman Zachary Sheehan takes a Scantron test. Most classes took their pre-tests on Scantrons, like the class in which Sheehan took his test. Though teachers easily graded these Scantrons, they, along with students, still feel that pre- and post-tests are a waste of time.

Nathan Zhang, Staff Writer
October 8, 2014

As school edges around the corner, we dread the myriad of common core pretests taken each year. It makes us wonder whether or not these common core pretests required by the state of Ohio are actually useful.

Initiated by the state of Ohio, students are required to take pre- and post-tests in order to view student progress. Many cling onto the hope that next year there will be no common core with its hated pre- and post-tests.

According to the Columbus Dispatch, governor John Kasich said, “What do I care about Common Core? I just want kids to learn. I don’t have any ideological, personal or emotional commitment to anything other than ‘let’s make sure our kids do well.’”

Though Kasich is doing this for the better, does taking a test on content you haven’t even learned really help students learn? Our students do not think so.

“I don’t like the common core because the pretests aren’t necessary and they are a waste of time,” freshman Ashwin Chidambaram said.

Chidambaram is one of the countless numbers of students forced to take pre- and post-tests by the state of Ohio.

“What’s the point of taking a test on the stuff you haven’t even learned yet?” Chidambaram said.

Unfortunately, Kasich is not expecting a common core elimination bill on his desk.

“Until somebody can show me we’re eroding local control, I see no reason to do anything,” Kasich said, according “The Columbus Dispatch.”

After hearing this, Chidambaram said, “That’s just too bad. I hope common core will be gone at least before I graduate.”

Although Ohio’s governor may not think common core will be removed in Ohio, don’t lose hope just yet. States are slowly but steadily repealing common core.

These states include Indiana, Wisconsin, Oklahoma, Kentucky, Massachusetts, N.J, N.C. and S.C. Common core in these states will be abolished as of next year. Other states such as Florida and Missouri await approval from their governors to ‘ditch’ common core.

So, do not give up yet, and hang on to the last threads of hope that Kasich will change his mind about common core.

For more information visit Columbus Dispatch.