standardized testing – n. any form of testing that requires all test takers to answer the same questions, or a selection of questions from common bank of questions, in the same way, and that is scored in a consistent manner

apply(ing) - to ask formally for something, such as a job, admission to a school, or a loan, usually in writing

academic – adj. of or relating to schools and education

submit – v. to give a document, proposal, or piece of writing to someone so that it can be considered or approved

optional - adj. available as a choice but not required

disabilities – n. conditions such as an illness or an injury that damage or limit a person's physical or mental abilities

disadvantaged – adj. lacking the things such as money and education that are considered necessary for an equal position in society

tutoring – n. special lessons involving just one student and one teacher

institution(s) – n. an established organization

de-emphasizing – v. taking away attention from something

thermometer – n. an instrument used for measuring temperature

conventional wisdom - n. opinions or beliefs that are held or accepted by most people