SOL Testing has started up since last Monday, and it has been very busy for everyone throughout the school. Teachers and aides 2nd grade through 5th Grade must administer and proctor these tests as well as assist teachers during non-test days to teach students and ensure they are fully prepared for whatever test is coming up next for them. Pre-K through 1st Grade must walk quietly in the hallways and use outside walkways whenever possible to make sure the students who are testing do not experience any distractions whatsoever.
I got to meet with 3rd and 4th Graders for Testing Lessons at the end of March and beginning of April. 3rd Graders have the theme of Baseball, associating Test Day with Game Day. It's been a lot of fun having them do activities and getting them in the positive mindset for this important time of year. 4th Graders are "Rocking the Test" and got to use their names as an acronym for testing tips. They came up with great ones on their own, and I had fun helping them make a 4th Grade Poster that is now hanging in the hallways for everyone to see!! My goal through these lessons was to prepare students emotionally and mentally; I truly hope my lessons have helped all the students feel more confident and prepared for this test.
As for Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd Graders, I got to have one last lesson before testing this month that focused on Self-Control. I read "My Mouth is a Volcano!" by Julia Cook to Kindergarten students and they got to make their own volcano as a reminder for themselves. 1st Graders made a booklet called "Don't Be an Angry Bird" and learned about controlling their anger. Finally, 2nd Graders read "Soda Pop Head" by Julia Cook (yes, she is one of the best authors I know for a School Counselor!!) and they thought of good and bad coping habits for times when they might be angry or frustrated.
4 more weeks of school. Although I am excited about summer approaching (this time of year is exhausting!!) I do know that I will miss seeing these kids every day when school let's out. It's time to meet with as many kids as possible before the year comes to an end!!