It seems like we're always giving a test, taking a test, or grading a test!!!! No wonder we're all going crazy and stressed out!!!!!
This week at school, we administered our fall semester benchmarks. No, they were not our first round of tests by any means, BUT these are the BIG ones that everyone looks at. Not only are the kids stressed out, but the teachers as well.
As a principal, I don't even have to address a staff member about their results before the teacher comes in with tears in their eyes and a big apology about their scores. I always say, it's just something to give you concrete feedback about your students, use and go forward with it. And just for fun, we'll do it again in the spring semester!!!
But seriously, there are a lot of de - stressers for students and staff alike! For example, take a look at http://pbskids.org/itsmylife/school/teststress/
Take a deep breath and try not to stress! Good luck!
I agree that test really stress everyone out. I feel most for the little ones 3rd grade that have never taken such a big and important test. They themselves get so stressed. Teachers also have so much they feel weighing on their shoulders during test time. I agree that this does give the teachers concrete evidence to be able to move their students forward!!
ReplyDeleteStress, Stress, STRESS.......I have experienced the same situations at the high school level. There are positives to learning where we are strong and competent and where we need to focus our energy. Testing gives us the data so that we can take an objective look and plan for interventions and professional development. Stress......YES but if data is used correctly we can aid our students to success.
ReplyDeleteGreat point. We all need to make sure to assuage teachers concerns and remind them daily progress is being made. This is not a sprint but a marathon!
ReplyDeleteGood points! If only the students took it as serious as the teachers!!!! :)
ReplyDeleteLove the resource you posted in your blog. I'm going to tweet this out to my teacher! I always remind them that test day is the students day to show what they know.
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