MCAS TIPS

 

 

As you know, during the months of March, April and May students in grades three, four and five will be taking the MCAS tests. This also coincides with the start of spring sports, longer daylight hours and most likely an increase in waking hours and physical activity level for our students. There are a few tips we would like to share with you in order to make sure that the students are well prepared for the busy times ahead. Let’s take a good look at nutrition, adequate rest and the importance of coming to school awake, alert and ready to go.

 

Eating right helps children do their best at school and at play. Mornings are a busy time in every household but it is concerning to hear that research shows that 19% of students are coming to school without eating breakfast! For these children, most of their school day is spent with less energy for learning than those children who eat a nutritious breakfast. Not only does the young body need energy and nutrients for learning and concentration, but also to grow and develop properly. Nutritious meals and snacks help children to get through the school day without feeling fatigued, and enable them to concentrate and put forth their best efforts in school. Please consider this while preparing lunches and snacks and avoid foods that are high in sugar and fat. Proper hydration is also important in helping the human machine to run smoothly and to replenish fluids lost during active play.

 

Just as important as our children’s nutrition is their need for peaceful rest and sleep. Studies have shown that if children don’t get enough sleep they will feel irritable and find it difficult to concentrate and do well in school. The best way to facilitate good sleep habits is to establish a realistic bedtime and stick to it as often as possible. Try to have your child complete homework assignments before sports practices or music lessons. Make sure that your child goes to sleep feeling good about himself/herself and knows what to expect the following day. Getting a good nights sleep just one night before testing is not enough! Our goal is for our students to be well rested all of the time!

Please share this information with your children and empower them by letting them know that proper nutrition and rest are things they have control over and have a cumulative effect on their performance. If your family needs to make some changes – do it now. Try to avoid chaos and emotional turmoil in the morning. Be supportive, give them encouragement and send them in to school relaxed, with a positive attitude – not just during MCAS testing, but each and every day!!! Thank you for your support.

 

Mrs. Marshall