The problem I have been studying is high stakes standardized testing in the United States, more specifically New York City. Parents and educators have found that these tests have decreased a students ability to truly learn material. Over-emphasis on standardized tests stresses students out because of the need to perform well. New York City has a large population with many people of different socioeconomic statuses and these inequities carry over into an unequal dynamic in the school system. As a result, administrators push for standardized tests in hopes that they will create an even playing field.