Bitter cold temperatures and snow, delayed openings and scheduling changes, and, of course, PARCC testing…it’s enough t
o make anyone go mad. Throughout all of it, I have had the privilege of working in many of your classrooms and witnessing first-hand the incredible work that you all do. I see teachers working tirelessly to meet students’ varying needs. I notice teachers giving up their lunch to work with students that WANT to stay in for the extra help. I observe students benefit by using all of the tools they have been given during this high-stakes test. I also feel the incredible pressure that teachers are under and I wonder if you are able to see the difference that you are actually making for these students.
As I proctored the PARCC alongside a classroom teacher, I noticed one student in particular working extremely hard, taking her time, checking her work. She even told me that she said a silent prayer before raising her hand to log out for the day.
After testing was finished for the day, she proudly proclaimed that even though the test was hard, she used all of the tools her teachers had given her to be successful. Even though this student was a reader that struggled, she stayed the course, used her tools, and finished the test feeling good about herself. The next day the teacher shared with me a note that student had written thanking her for all that she did to prepare her.
As I proctored the PARCC alongside a classroom teacher, I noticed one student in particular working extremely hard, taking her time, checking her work. She even told me that she said a silent prayer before raising her hand to log out for the day.
After testing was finished for the day, she proudly proclaimed that even though the test was hard, she used all of the tools her teachers had given her to be successful. Even though this student was a reader that struggled, she stayed the course, used her tools, and finished the test feeling good about herself. The next day the teacher shared with me a note that student had written thanking her for all that she did to prepare her.
Amidst the madness of testing, I noticed what I always notice. Principals offered words of encouragement and support to teachers and students. Teachers provided a calming environment to their classes by showing confidence in them. Because of strong teaching, students used a variety of strategies from their toolkit.
Don’t let the madness of the testing season obscure our everyday successes, whether big or small. No matter what the test results show, know you truly make a difference. As the snow melts and spring approaches, I hope you are able to see the fruits of your labor.
Don’t let the madness of the testing season obscure our everyday successes, whether big or small. No matter what the test results show, know you truly make a difference. As the snow melts and spring approaches, I hope you are able to see the fruits of your labor.