Test, test, test! Ugh!

Until next year, our kindergarten has been fortunate enought to not be required to take the TCAP (TN state standarized test). I feel so bad for these poor teachers and students that are completely stressed out over this once a year, week long, crazy test that "determines" if the teachers are effective teachers and/or the school is making adequate yearly progress, or if the kids are mastering the required material. In our state and district it is a very big deal and the source of much stress.

Last year the pressure was really on so one of my coworkers suggested we give each teacher (& test proctors) a little treat each day of the testing week to encourage them & let them know we were thinking of them. Did I mention that THEIR students' test scores now affect OUR pay?!?! Now if that doesn't get you to praying for your coworkers, I don't know what will!

They loved the treats and were so appreciative that we were thinking of them and had pity on them. This year I "cute-sied" them up with owl clip art and reworded them so that they can be given to teachers and/or students. Get them here for free! 

      

        

Now I wonder that since kindergarten will be giving "THE" test next year, who will encourage us with candy?!?

I also finished a 20 page Pirate themed flipchart for ActivBoard to review many of the skills that we learned in kindergarten. It would also be a great review for the beginning of first grade. Check it out at my TPT store!