Episode

6/11 Anya Kamenetz: The Test: Why Our Schools are Obsessed with Standardized Testing–But You Don’t Have to Be

June 11, 2015

NPR reporter and author of the new book the  The Test: Why Our Schools are Obsessed with Standardized Testing–But You Don’t Have to Be, Anya Kamenetz, explains the history of America’s obsession with test taking. The conflicting political drives behind the testing movement. The connection between theories of intelligence and eugenics. Why higher test scores don’t mean better schools. The Atlanta cheating scandal and the pressures that leading to cheating. What could lead to higher quality testing? Also the power of the testing industry.

On The Fun Half: NPR host Diane Rehm asks Bernie Sanders if he is also a citizen of Israel. Rick Perry is still a very stupid man. The racism behind the fear of voter fraud. Glenn Beck is convinced America is being overrun by psychological Nazis. A racist teacher in Texas wants to return to segregation but claims through a hashtag that she is not racist. Senator Mark Kirk says on a hot mic that Lindsey Graham is a “bro without a hoe” Also your calls and IMs.

Members make the Majority Report possible. Please join us by becoming a MEMBER. You can also show your support by clicking thru to the DONATE button for a one-time donation. Thanks

Past Episodes

It's Casual Friday! Emma speaks with Mike Figueredo of the Humanist Report to round up the week in news. Then, she's joined by Van Lathan of the Higher Learning podcast! First, Emma runs through updates on Trump’s dropping popularity (thanks to Elon), budding GOP criticism of the Trump/Musk ...
It's an EmMajority Report Thursday! She speaks with Brian Mier, pundit for Portuguese-language news portal Brasil 247, TeleSur correspondent, & author of the "De-Linking Brazil" newsletter on SubStack, to discuss the recent charges brought against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. ...
It's Hump Day! Emma speaks with Elizabeth Pancotti, managing director of policy at the Groundwork Collaborative, to discuss Elon Musk and DOGE's efforts to curb government spending, and how it's faring in terms of public opinion. Then, she speaks with Tyler Vasseur, shop steward with ...