Thoughts on state tests

Test taking pressure is real and it sucks! (Picture not mine.)

As many of my students are suffering through the anxiety, stress, and pressure of state testing, and many of my teacher friends are struggling with the horror known as state testing, and many of my parent friends are torn with the absurdity of a state test, I wanted to share my words of encouragement. 
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OK, I don't have any words of encouragement. State tests are atrocious. They are a disservice to students, teachers, and parents. They "give data" but we all know that data is skewed. Our students are not robots who can answer on demand. Many brilliant students fail miserably at standardized tests. I don't see why we want to create generations of students who can "take a test" but who cannot balance their financial accounts, or who cannot problem solve on their own,  or who cannot apply logic to every day living.

I watched my third grader this year fear going into the third grade because of this stupid state test.

The teachers have to tote the test as very important but at the same time try not t freak the kids out. How can you do that? "This test is so very important for you and for me, but don't stress it." What would you do if your boss said "hey, I want to take this online test on your job. You don't need to worry about it, but if you don't pass, you will be fired." 

OF COURSE YOU WOULD STRESS IT!! It's only human nature! It would totally freak me out!!

And what do these standardized tests really tell us? It tells us which students can (1) take tests and (2) know the material enough to manipulate it and get the correct answers. Is that really the data we want to see?
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Here is the only advice I can pass along.

• State tests, like a driver's test, are required to get to the next level. Like the driver's test, one practices multiple times to pass it.
• You need a clear head and a calm environment. Encourage your students to review the material and practice the test.
• Make sure they are getting adequate sleep the week(s) of testing.
• Show them you are on their side, no matter their test results. Let them know they will not disappoint you if they are not as successful as they need to be.
• If they are taking the third grade test, remind them of how much they know now that they didn't know last year. Have them tell you some of those things.
• Most importantly, let them know that test results are not who they are. Yes, they need to do their very best, but they are your child, and you love them no matter the score.

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AS testing "season" is upon us, please be kind to your child, to your teachers, and to yourself. This, too, shall pass. I am sending you lots of test-taking thoughts and hugs!