Jennifer at Inside Pre-K has written a great diescription of why pre-k people have a hard time with standardized tests as quality indicators.

I believe firmly that assessments of any kind should be used to guide instruction at all grade levels. When teachers feel comfortable with their assessments and they are an accurate measure of students’ abilities, they can be an invaluable tool in the classroom. However, when assessment is structured inappropriately or administered in an unfamiliar manner, it can yield inaccurate results.

Often policymakers like to describe teachers who reject tests as running from accountability. Trust me, most teachers hold themselves more responsible than anyone could ever hold them accountable.

She makes a great case for using multiple assessments in early-childhood. Give it a read and comment!