Candidates differ on test scores

Missouri’s recent standardized test scores weren’t what Bob Holden would like to see. But he says he’s encouraged by modest improvements. To further improve, he recommends cash rewards for teachers who take extra training. Republican Jim Talent isn’t so generous. He says the test scores are disappointing. Talent says schools that turn out good test scores should be rewarded, while schools that are failing should be changed or be taken over by the state. MAP standardized test scores released last week show most Missouri students fail to reach the proficient level in several subjects.