I question both the relevance of the tests and the relevance of what the teachers are programmed to do. Between the unions, lobbyists, parents, corporations, and teachers, it is no wonder our kids have the knowledge and skills for the zombie apocalypse rather than cooperation and well-being. When we create environments of competition, we inadvertently create mindsets that are less than capable of holding their own against the trials and tribulations that come from our survival in the natural world. You are thinking...this Irish-Eskimo has not a clue what he's talking about. Ask yourself: Is the competitive mindset our goal when we teach children to accomplish tasks and objectives? What is the goal? This is not a silly question to ask. If we take time to reflect, we can make good progress.