We will be busy at JMA preparing and reinforcing the skills necessary for students to demonstrate their learning. Parents play an important part in helping students give their best performance on this important test. Even though assessments are a snapshot—one single perspective – it is important that our students have every advantage to do their very best. We don’t want to cause test anxiety, rather we want our students to be as prepared as possible. There are many ways in which parents can help their child put his/her best foot forward. The following guidelines can help set our students up for success:
Throughout the year:
- Read to/with your child and make time to discuss what you’ve read.
- Encourage reading for pleasure regularly.
- Know what kind of homework teachers expect and make sure your child completes it.
- Provide a regular, quiet place for your child to read or complete homework.
- Set high expectations for grades and attendance.
- Take an active interest in what your child is doing in school. What is he or she learning? Parents who communicate daily about what their children are learning build a strong foundation to demonstrate that learning on tests.
- During the weeks leading up to the test, begin to talk with your child about doing his or her best. You know your child better than anyone. Emphasize the importance of the test, but remember to build confidence, not anxiety.