The NYS ELA tests will be given this week. I'll be giving my students some important last-minute pointers tomorrow. What can you do to encourage your child to do his or her best work?
As Catholic Schools Superintendent Sister Carol Cimino said in this morning's paper, "It's merely a test. This is just one snapshot. It's not high stakes." So, put this one day-one test (three total) into perspective - this test helps to measure a student's strengths and weaknesses in reading and writing, and shows where improvement needs to be made. It doesn't determine "how smart a kid is". Make your child feel comfortable and confident, and encourage your child to do the best job possible. Make sure he or she is rested and has had some breakfast fuel before coming to school. Tell your child to relax and enjoy reading the stories on the test. In truth, most of them are very informative and entertaining. Remind your child that hard work leads to success. What tools are needed for the test? Several sharpened No. 2 pencils with erasers, one highlighter, and a good book to read if there is any time after answers to the questions on the test have been carefully written.
My students are tired after each day's assessment (So am I!), so I'll try to provide a "useful distraction" after the test ... perhaps some PETER PAN IN SCARLET  for the sixth graders, a mythology puzzle for the seventh graders, and some preparation for the important Boston trip for the eighth graders.
As always, I'm counting on inspiration from the Holy Spirit and our patron Saint Francis DeSales. Moms and Dads, pray for us!