Opt-Out Resources & Media
In 2014, Takiema became a part of a multiracial group of parent leaders in the NYC Opt-Out (standardized test refusal) movement and has spoken out in various venues against the harm of high stakes standardized tests, particularly as they impact the lives of the youngest Black and Brown children, children with special needs, and children from under-resourced communities.
+ Written Materials
“High Stakes Tests” blog post
“New York Opt Out Movement Aims to Influence Policy, Not Just Parents, Here’s How” article in Chalkbeat
“We Refuse” Washington Post Op Ed (co-author)
"Combatting Racism in Early Childhood Education" Pix11 Article (quoted)
+ Panel Discussions & Interviews
A Standardized Test Is a Poor Substitute for Equity Forum NYC
Takiema Bunche Smith 2014 interview with Al Jazeera
Press Conference Refusing State Tests in 2014 video clips:
“Why New York? Our Segregated Schools Epidemic: Part 2” Brooklyn Historical Society Panel moderated by Nikole Hannah-Jones
Bank Street Black Lives Matter at School Week Early Childhood Symposia:
Defending the Early Years: Black Lives Matter in Early Childhood
+ Audio
- “Opting Out of New York State Standardized Tests” WNYC Brian Lehrer show (quoted)