TAKS Test Redux

Cynthia Vega reports

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DALLAS — It was back to school Tuesday — for one day — for 300 Dallas students who were asked to re-take the math portion of the TAKS test.

The Texas Education Agency ordered the re-test at Lang Middle School after what were described only as "irregularities" with the results of the original exam, a standardized test designed to assess student competence in five subject areas.

Out of 380 eighth graders who were summoned by letter and voice mail messages several weeks ago, 300 appeared for the 8:30 a.m. start of testing.

"It's really wrong, because they are cutting back on our summer vacation," said student Mayra Terez. "I really don't think that's fair for us."

Some parents were also hot under the collar about the disruption in the summer routine. "I'm glad this is my daughter's first and last year at this school," said Marissa Esperanza.

Students were given until 3:30 p.m. to complete the test. Dallas ISD officials said they would provide buses back home for students who needed a ride, although some parents told News 8 they were never clear on the transportation arrangements.

Questions remained about how well students who've been away from school for a month would perform on the math test without the customary classroom review leading up to the exam.

DISD expects results of Tuesday's testing to be available by mid-August.

For the 80 students who were no-shows, their placement for the next school year will be based on old test scores.

E-mail cvega@wfaa.com