The answer here is, any way you want. A note or letter is most courteous. The Coalition for Better Education offers a sample letter accessible at www.thecbe.org. I simply send a note one day in advance that says something to the effect of, "Our daughter will not be participating in the Colorado Student Assessment Program. She has alternative work assignments to be completed in the library (or some other approved location) during the time that students will be testing."

Some parents pool resources for child care during that time, take field trips, or get creative with special assignments. Legally you don't even have to send your child to school (although I don't advocate for the permanent home school option). However you want to manage the alternatives is up to you. I would suggest that parents do not create more work for teachers. They have enough to do and CSAP is neither their choice nor their fault.

I know plenty of parents who think CSAP time is great time for a family vacation. This year we're taking the Amtrak train up to Glenwood Springs for a history lesson and a dip in the hot springs. It's only $75.00 for three of us roundtrip.