By Nicole Hevener, Superintendent
We are quickly approaching the season of general summative assessments, and I first want to thank families for the important role you play in promoting student success. The support students receive at home can make a difference in how confident and prepared a student may feel on test day. Summative assessments are designed to measure what students know and can do after a period of instruction. The data from these assessments are just one snapshot of learning, but they provide valuable information to teachers. I want to share a few meaningful ways guardians can help students feel focused, ready, and calm.
Rest and Routine: One of the most powerful supports you can provide is ensuring that your student gets a full night of sleep. A well-rested mind is more alert, better able to concentrate, and manages stress better. In the days before testing, try to maintain a consistent bedtime. Limiting screen time in general and at least an hour prior to bedtime is recommended. Packing backpacks and setting out clothes for the next day is a great regular routine that can help the morning run much smoother.
Healthy Breakfast: A healthy breakfast fuels both the body and the brain. Whether at home or the school breakfast, encourage your student to eat a breakfast that includes protein, whole grains, and fruit. Even a small breakfast can help improve attention, energy, and mood; a balanced meal can make a big difference in a student’s comfort and concentration during a testing session.
Positive Encouragement: The most powerful support might be the encouragement provided before arriving to school. Voicing your belief in your child and the assessment being an opportunity to show what they have learned builds confidence. Avoiding pressure and fear and emphasizing effort, persistence, and pride will go a long way. If your child feels nervous, encourage deep breaths and positive self-talk. Your calm, confident mindset can greatly reduce anxiety.
Be on Time and Prepared: Ensuring your child arrives on time and prepared helps them settle in before testing begins. Stress can be increased by having to rush as a result of arriving late, and a student may also miss the opportunity to have breakfast. Encourage your child to take any required materials such as glasses and to dress comfortably.
Helping every child to feel confident, supported, and ready to do their best is a shared goal. When schools and families work together, an environment where students can thrive is fostered—not only during assessments but every day. Thank you for your continued partnership and for the many ways you support students. Together, we can help them approach summative assessments with confidence and a sense of readiness to succeed.
