While we may not all agree with the amount of emphasis presently placed on the Ohio Proficiency Test program, our job is first to define today's reality, and proficiency testing is a large part of that reality.

How do we help our teachers and students to not only cope with the testing but to emerge stronger because of its positive and ethical use? What do our students need to learn to both pass the proficiency tests and to obtain competency in the skills needed for productive, joyful lives in the 21st century? How do we as adults, help all students fulfill their individual hopes and dreams while at the same time educate all students with the skills determined by the greater community to be necessary for the good of all?

Our job in education is often a paradox, and it is only through working together through continual sharing of reflection and dialogue, that we will have the greatest opportunity to succeed.