Test Me, Maybe...A Positive Light

The educational institution of which we are a part is suffering from severe growing pains, to put it mildly.  The challenge to prepare students for the upcoming high-stakes testing season is more stressful than ever.  Teachers and administrators are feeling the pressure...but so are our children.  In as much as 'the test' is meant to be an important tool for measuring student knowledge, it is just as important to keep in mind the mental health and well-being of our children as the testing dates approach. 

One key to successfully conquering change of this nature is keeping a positive attitude...especially in our relationships with students.  The process by which the state has 'rolled out' the new CCSS may not seem ideal.  However, as adults, we realize we have no choice (for many reasons) but to adhere to the new rules laid before us.  We must surge forward, with open and positive minds, using the most effective strategies and resources at our disposal in order to guide our students to success.  And we must also strive to keep our students thinking as positively as possible!

What better way to do that than with a song!  The video below is just one way a creative colleague chose to 'lighten' the mood of her third grade class as the test dates approach.

 

 

Change is good...I am a firm believer in that!  But it also comes with its challenges, especially when we have no control over the change at-hand.  Keep the faith!  You are doing great!!  AND...your students need you now more than ever!  Remember that old commercial..."Never let 'em see you sweat!" 

 

 

Enjoy the day!

 

Kate