The test prep idea is basically what "teach to the test" for NCLB/state assessments boils down to. They start with what material will be covered and drill it, practice the test, repeat etc. for months. Of course the idea is that this will raise the test scores as much as humanly possible.
Is this an education? IMHO, no. But in theory it raises test scores.
Also, the kids that are the most "coachable" and best at taking achievement-type tests aren't necessarily the most naturally intelligent, the most creative thinkers, or have the most natural leadership abilities. Maybe some kids are all of this in one outstanding package, but maybe they're not, or are slower to blossom, or just think about the questions so much they don't perform as well!
