My message: Take down standardized testing

Dear future president,

I have hundreds upon thousands of aspirations and goals for my life. I am extremely motivated, creative and talented in the fields of study that I wish to pursue. However, I am deathly afraid of standardized tests. I know exactly what I want to do with my life, but I may be rejected from the very college that could help get me there because of a test score.

Our country is moving in the right direction on standardized testing, especially with the repeal of the No Child Left Behind Act, but I don’t think that is enough. It is your job to keep that momentum moving when you take office. I refuse to be defined by a number. Please ensure that my talent, that my veracity, that my passion does not become overshadowed by a test score.

Sincerely,

Caleb Ragan

John W North High School

Riverside, Calif.