How to Encourage Students to Engage in National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

Looking for more ways to encourage your students to stay moving for the rest of the summer? Check out these five tips on how you can motivate your students to live active and healthy lifestyles before you send them off for summer break.

1. Discuss the Benefits of Being Active

You know that your students are smart, so be real with them. Having an informative and open discussion with your students about the benefits of living and maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle can really help them understand the why when it comes to having a healthy relationship with food and exercising.

Discuss with them how building healthy habits now makes them more likely to be active and healthy grown-ups. Let them know how research has shown that just 60 minutes of physical activity per day can help them:

• Earn better grades
• Develop time-management skills
• Boost concentration, memory, and self-esteem
• Reduce anxiety and stress

It’s a lot easier to be motivated to do something when you know why you should be doing it. So, let your students in on it.

2. Encourage Students to Unplug

During the summer, days can be unstructured compared to the school year. This means that children will likely spend much of their free time plopped down in front of electronic devices, staring at screens, and ultimately being inactive. While you can’t enforce a limit on screen time for your students over the summer, you can at least encourage them to set one for themselves. Consider ideas like these to get the ball rolling:

• Have a class discussion with your students on how much screen time they feel is appropriate during the day and how they can hold themselves accountable to that limit.
• Brainstorm different physical activities your students can do with friends or independently that don’t involve electronics, like putting on a backyard play, planting a mini garden, or trying out a new sport.
• Have your students write up summer tech-free bucket lists so they have plenty of ideas about how to entertain themselves when bored.

Additionally, here are some ideas for indoor activities to keep your students moving during National Physical Fitness and Sports Month:

• Minute to Move Mania: Dedicate one minute throughout the day for a quick burst of movement. This could be jumping jacks, high knees, wall sits, or dance breaks to their favorite upbeat songs.
• Animal Charades: Divide the class into teams and have students act out different animal movements for their team to guess. This is a fun way to get students moving creatively while learning about different animals.
• Circuit Challenge: Set up a circuit of simple exercises around the classroom, like lunges across the room, push-ups against the wall, or balancing on one foot for a designated time. Students can rotate through the circuit stations at their own pace.
• Indoor Scavenger Hunt: Hide clues around the classroom that require students to perform a specific movement, like jumping over an object or crawling under a desk, before finding the next clue.
• Yoga Flow: Dedicate a short portion of the class to some basic yoga poses. This can help students improve flexibility, focus, and body awareness. There are many free online resources with short yoga routines specifically designed for kids.

3. Introduce Some Outdoor Games

Odds are that your students don’t have the same playground equipment they have access to at recess in their own backyards. But that shouldn’t stop them from playing outside. Spend some time with your students discussing how to play different outdoor games, like hopscotch, freeze dance, or four square. A few of your students might already be familiar with these games, in which case you might ask them to share with their classmates some of the rules for play or even demonstrate for the class.

It may seem like a silly thing to talk about during class, but you never know which one of your students will spend the summer playing freeze tag with their friends or siblings because you helped remind them how much fun it is to play before the school year ended.

4. Get Loose and Have Fun

Summer is around the corner, and everyone just wants to have fun, so why try to fight it? Whether you're in a classroom or teaching in a virtual setting, try folding in some time throughout the day to play dance-along songs for the class and let everyone get goofy for a few minutes. If you start to notice more and more of your students are getting distracted during one of your lessons, pause for a brain break and have everyone stand up and get the wiggles out of their system.

During the last few weeks of class, let one of your students lead group yoga, a game of Simon Says, or a few rounds of freeze dance. While your students may think you’re just having some fun before school is out, what you’re really doing is modeling for your students how they can incorporate movement and light exercise into their day in ways that are fun and playful.

5. Invite Families to Get Involved

It’s no secret that parent and caregiver involvement does wonders, especially when it comes to your students’ success. But family involvement is just as important for keeping children active over summer break. Encourage your students to talk to their families about participating in group physical activities.

Start by asking them to think of a few activities they think their family members might enjoy, such as going for a walk with the family dog, spending a day together at the pool, or even helping with a big household project, like cleaning the garage. Not only are group activities a great way to get the whole family active, but they’re also the perfect opportunity for building lasting summer memories.

You can’t spend the summer with your students, but you can send them off with some ideas on how to have a happy, healthy, and active summer vacation. And don’t forget, there’s more to celebrate this May. Check out our free Memorial Day resource packet and get a jumpstart on June with ideas for National Fruit and Vegetables Month.

So hard in fact, that an entire month is dedicated to celebrating the work that educators put in day in and day out. Students, parents, friends, family, and building administrators come together every year to show their gratitude to the educators in their lives, but sometimes, a little self-pampering is the best form of appreciation.

Here are some ideas to hold your own personal celebration of you for Teacher Appreciation Month:

In the Classroom

​​Pack lunch—with your favorite take-out​

Yes, you only have 20 minutes (hopefully) to shovel food into your mouth before the kids come knocking on your door with questions, crises, or just a story they need to tell you. Squeeze as much enjoyment as you can out of every bite this week (and remove the stress of meal planning) by treating yourself to your favorite take-out meals instead of the usual leftovers. Even better, lots of restaurants offer educator discounts and deals for Teacher Appreciation Month and Week—be sure to ask.

​​Splurge on new classroom supplies​

It’s the blessing and curse of all great teachers—you never stop thinking about teaching. Embrace the obsession this week and spring for those cool new posters, art supplies, library additions, or flexible furnishing options that you’ve been eyeing for your classroom. Michael’s craft supply stores offer an awesome teacher appreciation discount.

Take a walk down memory lane

For all of the frustrating, stressful, and difficult moments in the classroom, there are just as many interactions with students that make it all totally worth it. And, you’ve probably got plenty of little tokens collected and given to you by students through the years as mementos. Get them all out, grab a box of Kleenex, and relive those endearing and self-affirming encounters. 

You can also assemble a “rainy day” box of positive notes, thank-you cards, inspirational quotes, and anything else you’ve received from students, staff, parents, and others over the years to look over on days when you’re feeling down. This can be a great way to give you a bit of encouragement and help you to get through those days when all you want to do is quit.

Make time for yourself every day

Make time for yourself every single day. Yes, that seems like a lofty goal, but it is oh-so important in your self-care routine. Pull up your calendar, and schedule out when you can fit some self-care into your day. Spending even just 10 minutes in your day centered around yourself can make a huge difference. Learn to cherish these moments about yourself, and soon they will become habit.

Out of the Classroom

Schedule a day for pampering

This may be an obvious one, but really, who can argue with a fresh new haircut, relaxing massage, or luxurious mani-pedi? Pick an evening and make an appointment for the works at your favorite salon or spa. The “me time” is more than deserved.

Relax and enjoy yourself

How often do you get home from a long day in your classroom and stare longingly at your couch and TV, only to make the motivated choice and drag yourself into the kitchen to cook dinner, off to the gym for a workout, or right back out the door to run errands?

We applaud your productivity (and generally encourage it) but this week, give in to the pull of relaxation. Throw on those sweats, curl up with a blanket, and shamelessly indulge that show that’s been on your watchlist for months, that new video game, or the novel you can't wait to finish. Have a passion project you’ve been meaning to work on?

You can also use your self-care time to pursue a hobby or side project of yours. Carving out that much-needed me time is important in approaching tomorrow with a clear head and refreshed sense of purpose.

Spend time with others who bring you joy

While spending lots of time around other people can be draining, it can also be uplifting. Spending some extra time with friends and family and creating a team of cheerleaders in your personal life can help you through the good times and the bad. Surround yourself with those who bring you joy, lift you up, and encourage you.

You can also try organizing a happy hour with your colleagues. Pick a brand new, extra tasty, super swanky, or tried-and-true restaurant (don’t forget to ask about those Teacher Appreciation Week deals). If you can’t meet face-to-face with all your favorites, schedule a virtual gathering and download a game everyone will enjoy, or just leave work-talk at the door and let the conversation flow. Laughter and stress-relief guaranteed to ensue.

Indulge in retail therapy

No, you should not max out your credit cards on a massive mall run. But, this week is the perfect time to make a big purchase you’ve been considering for a while, or simply find a couple summer additions for your wardrobe. Let this be the sign you’ve been waiting for to finally get those new athletic shoes. Plenty of retail stores offer deals and coupons for Teacher Appreciation Week too.

Go on an adventure

We all need to break up the regular routine from time to time—it’s refreshing, invigorating, and helps us return to our day-to-day with new enthusiasm. So, treat yourself to the gift of a little adventure this week. Think of an outing you’ve been wanting to find time for—whether it’s visiting a museum, checking out a park, or taking a day-trip to a nearby town—and make it happen.

Volunteer for a cause you care about

Dedicate some time to give back to your community by volunteering for a cause that aligns with your values. Whether it's tutoring students after school, participating in a local environmental cleanup, or helping out at a food bank, contributing to something meaningful outside of your teaching role can be fulfilling and rejuvenating. Consider reaching out to local non-profit organizations or community centers to explore volunteer opportunities that resonate with your passions and skills.

Prioritize your mental health

Don’t forget about prioritizing your mental health. While it can be difficult to put yourself first in a profession where you care for others, it is the single most important thing you can do for you. When your mental health is treated and cared for, you can focus on doing what you love most—teaching. WeAreTeachers has a fantastic resource for you to explore different mental health options and answers to some of the top challenges that many educators face when seeking care for mental health.

It’s also important to be sure to ask for help when you need it. Don’t try to take on the responsibility of handling everything all the time; this is how educators burn out. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign that you know your limits and know when to ask for the support of others.

You put your hearts and souls into your career as educators, and your passion is truly inspiring for everyone at Edmentum to watch. We appreciate all that you do as educators, and hope you'll take a little time for you this week.

Looking for more ways to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Month? Explore our article, Creative Ways to Show Educator Appreciation for Your Staff.

1. Get Into a Theme

What do the best parties, poetry, and even parks all have in common? Themes. Arranging a special staff lunch, setting up a coffee and donuts one morning, or even taking the time to celebrate a teacher birthday are all easy ways to show your staff you care. But taking the extra step to sprinkle in a fun theme to tie it all together can really wow the crowd. Not only does throwing a fun theme over a gesture of appreciation give your staff something to look forward to, it also shows that you are willing to put in the extra effort to make things special for them. Check out these fun theme ideas by Julie David.

2. Choose a ‘Star of the Week’

To really wow your teachers, go the extra mile by periodically selecting a member of your staff to be the teacher’s lounge ‘Star of the Week.’ You can find a simple Star of the Week template online, and either have your Star Educator fill it out themselves with a few fun “get-to-know-me” facts, or create their Star of the Week poster yourself. Once its ready, find a place to put it up where everyone can see, like the teacher’s lounge or the front office. It may seem a little silly at first, but spotlighting your teachers shows that you see them (and appreciate) who they are, inside and outside of the school building. Plus, it’s a great way for everyone to get to know each other a little better throughout the year.

3. Make an Appreciation Routine

Regularly shining the spotlight on your staff, via a post from your school social account, an email blast, or just an old-fashioned shout-out during your next team meeting, is great way to show you see the incredible things they are doing, and you value how hard they are working. Check out these fun and free downloadable gratitude cards from Edmentum you can start sharing with your staff right now.

4. Surprise!

Who doesn’t love a nice surprise? Taking the time to arrange a fun surprise, like leaving a small treat on a teacher’s desk, setting up a day of free chair massages or a visit from a local food truck during lunchtime, or even just jumping on the announcements one morning to remind the whole school how much you appreciate that hard work you see every day, is a fun way to make sure your appreciation feels genuine and sincere.

5. Don’t Forget the Little Things

The little things really do go a long way. Suspect someone is having a tough week? Try bringing by a cup of coffee or tea. Or maybe you’ve noticed a member of your staff has been doing an especially great job lately? Perhaps you can take a moment to leave a nice hand-written note on their desk to let them know you’re grateful. Taking time to practice small, personal gestures not only helps build trust and boost productivity around your school, it can also help cultivate a culture of support and positive rapport within your community.

6. Classroom Coverage Tokens

Offer teachers the gift of time by providing them with classroom coverage tokens that they can redeem when they need a brief break or assistance. Whether it's for a bathroom break, a quick phone call, or a moment to collect their thoughts, these tokens demonstrate your commitment to supporting their well-being and workload management. Encourage staff members to pay it forward by offering their tokens to colleagues in need.

Professional Development Opportunities

Invest in the professional growth and development of your teaching staff by offering opportunities for ongoing learning and skill enhancement. Whether it's sponsoring attendance at conferences, providing access to online courses and certifications, or hosting in-house training sessions led by expert educators, these initiatives empower teachers to expand their knowledge, refine their teaching practices, and stay abreast of the latest trends and research in education.

Remember, while a catered lunch is certainly appreciated, educators need support and action from school leaders. One of the best ways school leaders can show appreciation for educators is by protecting them from experiencing burnout and fostering a positive school community.

Looking for more ways to celebrate teacher appreciation month? Check out our article, Teacher Appreciation Month: Self Care Tips for Educators.

So, as schools across the globe embark on their own new edtech journeys, it is essential to prioritize key components to ensure maximum impact on teaching and learning outcomes, as well as the progress, which can ultimately be seen and measured by school inspectors. Accounting for onboarding, platform selection, continuous professional learning, and student-centered approaches, each aspect plays a crucial role in shaping the success of edtech integration efforts. Edtech integration takes time; with international schools that see more frequent changes in staffing, it can take 12–18 months minimum to fully integrate as a core learning platform. This takes project management, vision and implementation. But over this time, schools will quickly gain nuggets of data that will make the whole thing worthwhile.

To begin the journey, schools first need to complete a comprehensive selection process. Looking at the needs of the school, where are the requirements for support, what platforms are already in place, and what is not working that needs replacing? Then, schools should consider looking at where platforms can add further value; for instance, edtech should be able to import and visualize standardized data. Is it age-suitable, and does it link to the school’s core curriculum? Involving all stakeholders in the platform selection process is hugely important; it fosters buy-in and promotes a sense of ownership from the outset. It also removes the idea of a top-down, nonnegotiable decision and brings a range of experts to the table to make decisions based on core school requirements and vision. Important factors to understand are how an edtech platform can connect to the school, how easy will it be for everyone to use and understand, and how the edtech company offers support; it should provide a roadmap of its trajectory so that schools know that they are buying into a long-term solution.

Developing a strategic implementation plan is paramount for maximizing the impact of edtech on teaching and learning outcomes. At the point of an implementation strategy, it is central for school personnel to be flag bearers, those who can support the platform’s integration and those who will test and do research and case studies that can be shared with others in the school as a point of reference to the strategies for using the platform in correlation with teaching and learning.

Implementation of edtech involves setting clear goals and objectives; establishing a timeline for rollout (one that is realistic based on the other priorities of the school); and identifying milestones along the way, such as data points, department meetings, and professional development related to teaching and learning. The integration of standardized-testing data into the platform also needs careful consideration, as to who, when and how. Taking these considerations into account allows schools to create baseline assessments and personalized learning pathways, setting the stage for targeted interventions and progress tracking. But should schools consider important past data to build profiles for the students? If this is helpful to better understanding students, then yes. All of these factors should be set out alongside the onboarding process. Many edtech companies will have a plan that schools can use as either a signpost or a copy-and-paste method; remember that edtech companies are experts in implementation for the most part. A school implementation roadmap is essential for laying the foundation for successful edtech integration. By providing thorough training and support for all stakeholders, including teachers, administrators, and IT staff, all schools can ensure a smooth transition to new platforms. Everyone should be supported to learn the tools in order to be prepared to support one another.

Ongoing professional learning opportunities are crucial for supporting educators in effectively leveraging edtech platforms. Schools must provide regular training sessions, workshops, and resources to help teachers enhance their digital literacy skills and instructional practices. These should not be one-size-fits-all approaches. Schools should use the platform to inform their understanding of who is using the platform and to what extent. Some staff members may avoid using it due to a lack of confidence, and they need to be supported, not only digitally. Developing understanding is important to onboarding, and backing the staff will help develop effective adoption and reduce stress.

Encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing among the staff fosters a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, ensuring that educators feel confident and empowered to explore new features and functionalities. This can be done simply at the beginning of implementation by ensuring that best practices are shared and data are discussed in the department and team meetings. Allowing all staff to discuss the pros and cons, normalizing the use of edtech, and opening up opportunities to support one another will create a positive environment, allowing everyone to thrive.

At the heart of edtech integration lies a student-centered approach that prioritizes personalized learning experiences and adaptive learning pathways. With a supported integration, educators will find that they can leverage data-driven insights, identify individual learning needs and quickly provide targeted interventions, and track progress of their students both in lessons and over time.

The more students use edtech platforms in structured learning environments, the more they will build their own skills to understand how to navigate the technology. This will empower them to take ownership of their learning journeys and promote autonomy and self-directed learning, fostering a deeper sense of engagement and motivation in the classroom. Celebrating student success with half-term or full-term parties, regardless of the students’ starting points is a wonderful way to reward effort and success.

With any platform, schools need to be rigorous in continuous monitoring and evaluation, as this is essential for assessing the impact of edtech integration on teaching and learning outcomes. Tracking platform usage and engagement among staff and students, identifying areas for improvement, and providing timely support and feedback are critical components of this process. Additionally, evaluating the effectiveness of edtech integration through surveys, feedback sessions, and data analysis helps inform future decision-making and strategic planning efforts.

Reflection and adaptation, essential parts of every educator’s daily life, are also key components of successful edtech integration. Regularly reflecting on implementation successes and challenges allows educators to adapt strategies based on feedback and the evolving needs of learners. Encouraging a culture of innovation and continuous improvement empowers educators to explore new ways of leveraging edtech to enhance teaching and learning experiences, ultimately driving meaningful outcomes for students. Tracking the enhanced success will also show tenfold why consistency is so important in the implementation.

Fostering a sense of ownership and buy-in among staff is essential for the successful integration of edtech into a school culture. Providing flexibility in platform usage, acknowledging individual teaching styles and preferences (not strong-arming educators into specific times of days or days of the week whenever possible), and recognizing the diverse needs of learners are crucial aspects of this process. Emphasizing the importance of consistency, while allowing for varied stimuli, helps prevent overuse and maintains engagement, ensuring that edtech remains a valuable asset in the classroom.

Navigating the edtech landscape requires a holistic approach that encompasses onboarding, strategic implementation, continuous professional learning, student-centered approaches, monitoring and evaluation, reflection and adaptation, and ownership and buy-in. By prioritizing these key components, schools can unlock the full potential of edtech to revolutionize teaching and learning experiences, shaping the future of education in the digital age. Edtech integration doesn’t happen overnight, and it can’t happen without all stakeholders buying into it.

• Having a strategy is important. Edtech promises transformative possibilities for education, but successful integration demands strategic planning, meticulous implementation, and ongoing support; those are all challenges requiring leadership commitment and vision
• Onboarding is vital; schools must embark on a comprehensive platform selection process involving all stakeholders to ensure alignment with school needs, vision, and curriculum. Effective selection involves understanding the platform's trajectory, ease of use, and support mechanisms; those elements set the stage for a successful long-term partnership.
• Ongoing professional development is crucial for educators to effectively leverage edtech tools, fostering digital literacy, innovation, and collaboration. By providing tailored training and fostering a culture of shared learning, schools empower educators to navigate the digital landscape with confidence and competence.

So, to summarize our series of articles on edtech and inspection readiness, it is clear, that the integration of edtech promises transformative possibilities for education and proof of success to the inspection process. However, successful implementation not only requires but demands strategic planning, meticulous execution, and continuous support. Leadership commitment, and vision are critical in navigating this complex landscape to ensure that edtech platforms deliver meaningful benefits to all stakeholders involved.

Key components of effective edtech integration include comprehensive platform selection involving all stakeholders to ensure alignment with school needs and vision, alongside ongoing professional development for educators to foster digital literacy, innovation, and collaboration. By prioritizing these aspects and fostering a culture of shared learning and ownership, schools can unlock the full potential of edtech to revolutionize teaching and learning experiences, shaping the future of education in the digital age. Edtech integration is a journey that requires time, consistency, and buy-in from all stakeholders for meaningful impact and sustainable progress.

With a strategic approach to edtech integration, schools can ensure that they have the necessary tools and resources to meet inspection requirements and foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

To continue reading:

Part One: Challenging the Status Quo - to learn about the elements schools should consider when evaluating an edtech platform to enhance inspection readiness and contribute to the school's success.
Part Two: Stakeholder Perspectives - to understand how a robust and well-thought-out edtech platform can empower and support all school stakeholders involved.

The article is written by Philippa Wraithmell, founder of EdRuption—a dynamic consultancy at the forefront of educational transformation. Passionate about positive school leadership, meaningful technology integration, and safeguarding Philippa brings a wealth of expertise to the table. As an accomplished educator and award-winning author, Philippa’s expertise lies in integrating technology effectively into educational settings and her passion for meaningful technology integration has empowered schools to enhance student learning experiences.

At the very top of UK state schools are school governors or board members. Not all schools internationally have a traditional board like in the UK, which are often parent-led and voluntary; many internationally are requested or paid advisors. However, the top stakeholders all play the same role; they are the people who want to know that an investment that they have supported (in this case, the edtech purchased) is fulfilling its claims and being used and supported by the school—and if not, why. They want to see that students are making progress and that the school is, if not already, on its way to gaining an “outstanding” approval. Their role is to be the governance, to question, “Is it right?—and if you’re saying it’s right, show me what it has done to support our school to be the best.”

Ultimately, for governors and board members, having access to comprehensive, high-level data and insights into student progress is essential to better understand what is happening in the school across terms and over academic years. They do not need to see the drilled-down version, although some may be interested. A robust edtech platform provides them with a holistic view of the school's performance, highlighting areas of strength and areas that require further investment or support. By analyzing standardized-testing data and identifying trends, governors can make informed decisions when the principal and senior teams are asking for their support regarding resource allocation and strategic planning. On top of this, the platform dashboards allow them to monitor the utilization of technology across the school, ensuring consistency and equity in educational practices. Therefore, they can be happy in the knowledge that investments have been worthwhile and are supporting the progress of the school.

Sitting at the helm of the school, principals and headteachers rely on data-driven insights to drive instructional leadership and foster a culture of continuous improvement. The weight is on their shoulders to ensure that the systems and processes deployed are benefitting the most important persons in the equation, the students. In addition, principals or headmasters have to prove via data that they are making the right choices when it comes to student learning and outcomes in the classroom.

An effective edtech platform enables school leaders to identify—by drilling down into the data—year groups, cohorts year on year, and curriculum areas that need support. It can highlight and address professional learning needs and provide targeted interventions for students who need support. These data points can then allow leaders to identify where staffing may be further required or even where strengths in teaching lie in certain year groups and cohorts. By leveraging real-time data and analytics, principals can track progress, which when used consistently over time, can show impressive effects and learner success. An edtech platform can also become a reflective tool for leaders to make small and impactful changes across the school. They can monitor teacher engagement with technology and facilitate evidence-based decision-making. Now, this is not about pinpointing educator weaknesses, but we know that technology in the classroom does not always come naturally to everyone, and leaders must be able to identify limitations in order to reduce stress and to support staff wellbeing. Introducing edtech is about supporting teachers in order to be more informed, so being able to acknowledge where support is needed is part of this important journey. The comprehensive understanding that edtech platforms provide to school leaders empowers them to lead change initiatives effectively and support teachers in implementing innovative teaching strategies.

A third level of stakeholders in this model our edtech journey is the teacher. Teachers are the fantastic people who are often struck with the implementations of all of the “new” ideas and agendas. They are another reason why making informed choices about the edtech we are using, and why we are using it, is key to its success in a school and the classroom. Teachers should be part of these decisions; they know their classrooms and students best.

The right edtech can serve as an invaluable tool for teachers in reducing workload, enhancing instructional practices, and helping them personalize learning experiences for students. No matter how passionate and dedicated leaders are to students and the school, they would not be able to accomplish those tasks quite as well without the innovative edtech tools now around for some support. Some teachers know their students so well that they can tell you exactly where learners are in their development at any given time; however, when it comes to school inspection, the word of anyone, even the most incredible outstanding teacher, needs to be documented and proven. By automating data collection and analysis, these platforms can help to do that by streamlining administrative tasks, while still allowing teachers to focus more on individual student needs and giving them progress-driven data at any given time.

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE) specifically, all schools are required to complete standardized testing; other schools choose to do so, and the insights derived from standardized-testing data help teachers to identify learning gaps or learners’ starting points, as well as to enable cohort benchmarking. Although this presents more data points that school inspections will look at, the focus will be on: “So, what did you do with that data?” Some schools have are so many students that reading and analyzing the data manually could take months to truly be able to build a personalized plan. But, plug that the data into an edtech platform, and a tailored instruction plan can be produced quickly, with learning goals that meet diverse needs. For teachers, edtech can then provide timely interventions for struggling students and guide them more efficiently to the source of a learner’s knowledge gap.

Additionally, an edtech platform can allow access to curated curriculum-aligned content and resources. When teachers can see that students are not grasping a new concept, they can access a wealth of alternative ways to enable learners to master it. Teachers are a wealth of knowledge in their own right, but when faced with large classes of students where English may not be the native language of learners and some who have moved from school to school, a successful edtech application can help support teachers to scaffold new concepts, differentiate instruction, and foster student engagement with all learners in the classroom, no matter what their start is in education.

At the ground level of stakeholders are the students themselves. No matter how tired teachers may be, they return to the classroom day after day because of those fabulous learners in front of them. Every individual personality becomes another reason for teachers to make sure that every lesson they deliver is engaging, fun, and helpful to enable students to take another step in the educational journey.- Students are at the heart of education, and they benefit immensely from the personalized learning experiences facilitated by edtech platforms. These platforms should be engaging and interactive, which are qualities that students are used to as digital natives. If edtech is removed from the classroom, students can become disengaged. This is not to say that stakeholders want students to only interact with edtech; these learning environments should be used as a tool to promote a love of learning. By developing tailored environments, schools can meet everyone’s individual needs. Providing instant feedback and personalized recommendations can help keep students motivated to learn and make progress. Edtech that has embedded adaptive learning pathways means that students can take ownership of their learning journey and progress at their own pace, at school and at home. In fact, teachers can even differentiate between if students are at home or school, which allows further insight into where they learn best—or just perhaps who they are learning with. Edtech can also regulate learners, making sure that they are not passively scrolling or guessing. It can prompt them to take a pause or do something different for some time.

Edtech platforms are able to recognize and celebrate student achievements, which ultimately fosters a positive learning environment and boosts the confidence of students. It enables students to have individual milestones recognized, without them being compared to others, which is so valuable to the learner mindset. Sometimes, edtech can provide students with the anonymity they need to succeed. Overall, by empowering students to track their own progress, especially as they get older, and access resources independently, edtech platforms begin to promote autonomy and self-directed learning. So, in essence, they will become lifelong learners.

To summarize, a robust edtech platform serves as a stimulus for driving meaningful outcomes across schools. It can support fostering collaboration across all stakeholders in the educational ecosystem by bringing them together with a focus and a data-driven reference for change.

Edtech can provide access to actionable insights, personalized learning experiences, and streamlined workflows. It can involve all stakeholders, no matter their role and, more importantly, empower all students to achieve their full potential and thrive in today's dynamic world with a wealth of change and adaptability ahead of them, which requires a core understanding of the basics.

As schools strive for inspection readiness, which is data-led, and continuous improvement, the strategic integration of edtech becomes increasingly indispensable in unlocking student success and shaping the future of education. Edtech should be explored to ensure that all stakeholders are effectively invested.

Summary

1. Education is rapidly evolving, with technology integration promising to revolutionize teaching and learning experiences for all stakeholders.
2. A robust edtech platform empowers governors, principals, teachers, and students by providing comprehensive data insights and personalized learning experiences.
3. At all levels, including governance and classroom instruction, edtech fosters collaboration, streamlines workflows, and promotes student autonomy, driving meaningful outcomes and ensuring inspection readiness in today's dynamic educational landscape.

To continue reading:

• Part One: Challenging the Status Quo - to learn about the elements schools should consider when evaluating an edtech platform to enhance inspection readiness and contribute to the school's success.
• Part Three: Integrating Effectively - to realize that effective integration requires careful planning, strategic implementation, and continuous support."

The article is written by Philippa Wraithmell, founder of EdRuption—a dynamic consultancy at the forefront of educational transformation. Passionate about positive school leadership, meaningful technology integration, and safeguarding Philippa brings a wealth of expertise to the table. As an accomplished educator and award-winning author, Philippa’s expertise lies in integrating technology effectively into educational settings and her passion for meaningful technology integration has empowered schools to enhance student learning experiences.

Why Celebrate APAHM?

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month provides an excellent opportunity for cultural education in the classroom, which is a vital part of a comprehensive curriculum. It allows students to delve into the histories, contributions, and traditions of Asian Pacific cultures, which helps them gain a broader perspective and learn to appreciate the richness of human experiences and traditions.

The history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) in the United States spans centuries, characterized by waves of immigration, cultural resilience, and perseverance in the face of systemic discrimination. From the early arrival of Filipino sailors in the 18th century to the labor contributions of Chinese immigrants in building the transcontinental railroad, AAPI individuals have played integral roles in shaping American society. Despite facing exclusionary laws, anti-Asian sentiment, and injustices such as the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, AAPI communities have thrived, forming vibrant enclaves and contributing to the nation's cultural, economic, and social fabric.

AAPI Heritage Month commemorates the distinctive paths of AAPI immigrants and citizens in the United States, honoring their individual life narratives, cultural heritages, and traditions.

Notable Figures and Their Contributions

APAHM offers an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the remarkable achievements and contributions of notable figures from Asian and Pacific Islander communities. Throughout history, individuals of AAPI descent have made significant impacts in various fields, shaping culture, science, politics, and beyond. Here are just a few examples of influential figures and their contributions:

• Yuri Kochiyama: A prominent civil rights activist, Yuri Kochiyama advocated for various social justice causes, including the rights of Japanese Americans and solidarity with other marginalized communities. She was a staunch supporter of civil rights leader Malcolm X and worked tirelessly to address issues of racism, incarceration, and imperialism.
• Ellison Onizuka: The first Asian American astronaut to reach space, Onizuka was a mission specialist aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery. He tragically lost his life in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster in 1986 but left a lasting legacy as a trailblazer in space exploration.
• Dalip Singh Saund: Dalip Singh Saund made history as the first Asian American elected to the United States Congress. Serving as a congressman from California in the late 1950s and early 1960s, Saund championed immigrant rights and worked to dismantle discriminatory immigration policies, paving the way for greater representation of AAPI individuals in politics.
• Patsy Mink: Patsy Mink was a trailblazing politician and women's rights advocate who became the first woman of color and the first Asian American woman elected to the United States Congress. Throughout her career, Mink fought for gender equality, education reform, and civil rights, co-authoring Title IX, which prohibits gender discrimination in federally funded education programs.
• Grace Lee Boggs: A philosopher, writer, and activist, Grace Lee Boggs played a pivotal role in the labor, civil rights, and environmental justice movements. Born to Chinese immigrant parents, Boggs dedicated her life to advocating for grassroots organizing, community empowerment, and transformative social change.
• Daniel K. Inouye: Daniel K. Inouye was a distinguished World War II veteran who became the first Japanese American to serve in the United States Senate. Throughout his political career, Inouye was a staunch advocate for veterans' rights, healthcare reform, and social justice, earning him widespread respect and admiration.

Resources to Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month

Enhance your APAHM lesson plans with the historical documents and multimedia content in the following online resources:

• The Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center
• The National Park Service's Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Stories
• PBS LearningMedia's Collection on Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage

Remember to review each resource beforehand. Ensure the content is age-appropriate and aligns with your curriculum goals.

Classroom Activities for AAPI Heritage Month

To celebrate this important month and promote cultural appreciation in the classroom in a meaningful way, we've curated a list of some creative and engaging activities that can help to highlight the diverse heritage and contributions of Asian Pacific Americans:

• Cultural Exchange Fair: Organize a cultural exchange fair where students can showcase artifacts, traditional clothing, foods, and music from various Asian and Pacific Islander cultures. Students can create displays, perform traditional dances or music, and share interesting facts about different cultures with their classmates.
• Guest Speaker Series: Invite guest speakers from Asian Pacific American communities to share their personal stories, experiences, and insights with students. This can include community leaders, artists, activists, or individuals from diverse professions who can offer unique perspectives on AAPI heritage and identity.
• Asian Pacific American Film Festival: Host a film festival featuring movies directed by Asian Pacific American filmmakers or documentaries exploring AAPI history, culture, and experiences. After watching the films, facilitate discussions where students can analyze themes, characters, and historical contexts portrayed in the movies.
• Interactive Art Projects: Encourage students to create art projects inspired by Asian and Pacific Islander cultures. This could include traditional crafts such as origami, calligraphy, or lei making, as well as contemporary art forms influenced by AAPI themes, symbols, or aesthetics.
• Virtual Field Trips: Take students on virtual field trips to explore significant sites and landmarks related to Asian Pacific American history and culture. This could include virtual tours of museums, historical sites, or cultural centers dedicated to preserving AAPI heritage and contributions.
• Storytelling Sessions: Host storytelling sessions where students can listen to folktales, myths, and legends from different Asian and Pacific Islander cultures. Encourage students to retell stories or create their own narratives inspired by AAPI folklore and traditions.

As educators, it's our responsibility to create inclusive and culturally responsive learning environments where all students feel seen, heard, and valued. By celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in your classroom and utilizing these resources, you can empower students to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry of America.

Looking for more resources to celebrate May holidays in the classroom? Explore our article, Free Classroom Resources for Celebrating May Holidays.

Before the Test

Make Sure Families Are Prepared

Remember, not all families experienced high-stakes exams in grade school, and parents may not even realize when they are happening this school year. Don’t leave it up to your students to explain to their grownups the importance of standardized tests. Keep families in the know, ease their anxieties, and make sure students are getting support at home by sending them these helpful resources:

• Elementary High-Stakes Test Taking Checklist
• Secondary High-Stakes Test Taking Checklist
• 8 Tips for Parents to Help Your Child Prepare for High-Stakes Tests
• Your Students and Exams: A Survival Guide for Families

Make Sure You Are Prepared

You’ve been working hard to make sure students are as ready as possible for test day. It’s one of the most stressful times of the year for teachers. We know you’re probably focused on helping your students feel prepared, but don’t forget about yourself! If you talk the talk, you have to walk the walk; make sure you get a good night’s rest and check out these resources that’ll hopefully save you some sleep deprivation:

• The Power of Positive Intent
• Self-Care Tips for Educators
• 11 Virtual Ideas to Build a Support Network for Teachers

If you still have a few weeks or days before the big day, check out our ultimate guide on preparing for high-stakes testing. It’s full of great tips for last-minute practice, leveraging data, and more.

During the Test

Test day is finally here! Before you’re giving yourself the classic and necessary, “You’re the greatest teacher that has ever lived!” pep-talk, check out these awesome tips and resources that will make the day less stressful overall.

Celebrate Good Times

We know you’re excited that test day is here (and that it’s almost over). Get your kids on your level before the tests get passed out with these unique pre-test ideas:

• Create a Pump-Up Playlist – Everyone loves to dance and Spotify has bunch of user-created playlists for pre-test hype. We know you’ll get to class early to make sure everything is perfectly prepared, so as kids are walking into class blast some sweet tunes. It’ll wake them up and put them in a great mood. Our suggestions? I Will Survive, Eye of the Tiger, and of course the classic Old Town Road.

• Snacks on Snacks on Snacks – It’s extremely important that kids get a good breakfast before test day. In a perfect world, every child will have eaten a full breakfast, but that isn’t always the case. It’s never a bad idea to have some granola bars, dried fruits, or other filling snacks (all individually packaged, of course!) on hand at your testing site, and to let students know they can come by and grab one before the test starts. Don’t let a stomach growl throw your students off their game.

• No Cell Phone Zone – No doubt when your students find out they have to turn it off for the day (even though you’ve told them this multiple times) they will protest. To help ease the separation, make the temporary cell phone ban a fun part of your pre-test ritual. Give kids five minutes to find their favorite testing day meme and share it with their neighbor, or have them take “before” selfies as they’re shutting off their phones. Once everyone is done with their tests, you can give the green light to turn phones on again by encouraging everyone to take their “after” selfie. It’s a lighthearted way to ease tension, and helps you make sure all the phones are going off.

Ease Anxieties

How many times have you gone to class on test day feeling great, only to arrive in your classroom to your kids looking nervous or saying they feel unprepared? Even if you’ve jammed out to pump up music and laughed at memes, test anxiety is real. So how do you take the fear out of testing day? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

• How Teachers Can Help Students Cope with Test Anxiety
• Helping Students Overcome “All or Nothing” Thinking to Focus on Learning
• Conquering Test Stress: Classroom Culture, Skills, Mindfulness

Take Breaks & Keep Students Engaged

Standardized tests can be brutal as the day goes on. Luckily, we take breaks. Now that students are in the swing of things, we don’t want to disrupt their concentration with loud music or videos on the internet, so consider these brain breaks that’ll keep those thinking caps on.

But even with breaks, it can be hard for students to stay focused, engaged, and trying their best when they’re answering difficult questions all day. Another way to keep engagement is to let your students know that they’re doing a great job with Edmentum’s gratitude cards.

After the Test

You’ve almost made it - here's how to keep the momentum going through the finish line. 

For the Early Birds

We know it’s hard for teachers to sit back and quietly monitor students while they finish testing, so what can you do for the kids who finish early? Don’t expect them to just sit there quietly. Give them some fun activities that will keep them from being a distraction to other students. We suggest creating crossword puzzles for students, making sure that your classroom library is stacked, have scratch paper for doodling, or have some fun writing prompts available that will let their imaginations take off.

The Final Countdown

Once your students have handed in their exams, take a deep breath, and let your students know how proud you are of them. You all worked hard leading up to today! Recognize their accomplishments with some of our favorite ways to celebrate:

• Present Before and After Photos – as we mentioned earlier, a fun way to get kids to put their phones away for the day is to have them take a before photo right before they turn them off. Have them email you those photos and put them into PowerPoint to review later.
• Have a Picnic – if weather permits, take your celebration outside and serve up some punny “hot dog, the test is over” hot dogs! Ice cream is always a good option, too. Or even scheduling a simple class lunch period outside instead of in the cafeteria. Who doesn’t love a good outside day?
• Write Break-Up Letters – Every student has a topic or two that they battled with leading up to test day (looking at you fractions…) they are probably glad to be done with for the year. For a part-reflection, part-fun activity, have them write respectful break up letters to their state tests, To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before style. What lesson will they never forget? What are they grateful to leave behind? Don’t forget to really commit to the bit by playing some break-up music.
• Start Something New – Once state exams are over, get a fresh start and end the school year on a high note. Start a new project that is fun and tailored to the interests of your students, or look into starting a genius hour. Whether that’s a video project, a research paper, or something else entirely, it’ll be refreshing to switch gears.

State testing can be a whirlwind for even the most seasoned educator. Good luck to all the teachers and students out there - we’re rooting for you.

This post was originally published March 2020 and has been updated.

Data Literacy

The collection of student data, in turn, brings further barriers; it means that data literacy emerges as a critical skill for educators, vital for school improvement and inspection readiness. Understanding and leveraging data will empower educators to differentiate instruction, track progress, and ultimately, foster student success. However, have educators been trained in understanding data? A good edtech platform would ensure that this is part of the onboarding process and ongoing support, not just a checkbox. The relationship with the platform provider while onboarding is a key driver to support and successful implementation.

In the pursuit of excellence, schools, of course, prioritize continuous improvement. The data-driven insights can serve as beacons, guiding educators toward effective teaching practices and personalized learning pathways. Some schools still track student data manually, whereas some teachers have multiple ways to track data, though none may be quite the same or aligned. When choosing an edtech tool, the selection of the right one is crucial—the best ones are capable of not only collecting data but also translating it into actionable insights tailored to each student's unique needs. The collected data come back to educators to dissect and then create a learning strategy for their own classroom.

Thankfully, today's leading edtech platforms go beyond data aggregation; they empower educators to craft personalized learning experiences. By identifying student misconceptions and offering targeted interventions, these tools facilitate student growth and mastery. In essence, the journey toward school improvement and inspection readiness is intrinsically linked to the effective utilization of technology. When used adeptly, edtech has the power to revolutionize education, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a constantly changing world. Well-designed edtech also has the power to show improvement in outcomes for schools.

Proficiency in Learning: Personalization and Progress

Modern education is not without its challenges. When we consider today’s diverse and complex landscape, despite significant investments in education worldwide, a vast portion of students still struggle to attain basic proficiency in core subjects. This struggle highlights the urgent need for proactive measures to address these challenges. The growing number of international students in schools worldwide and the heavy workloads of educators seem to increase despite the influx of educational software and private education institutes that offer support.

With the global education market expected to reach $10 trillion by 2030 according to HolonIQ, the pressure is on to deliver tangible improvements in learning outcomes. However, the persistent gap in proficiency rates, as highlighted by PISA and UNESCO reports, underscores the need for innovative solutions, so this is where immediate data insights proven to accelerate growth and personalize learning through digital education platforms emerges as a beacon of hope. Personalization of learning is the key to learner independence and agency, which can be a game changer in the classroom. High-quality edtech can give educators the balance of personal in-class group and one-on-one support, guided and supported by insights from student data.

Personalized learning pathways developed by tailored solutions can address the diverse needs of students, catering to individual learning preferences and pacing. By strategically leveraging digital education platforms, schools can create dynamic, student-centered learning environments that cultivate academic success and unlock the full potential of every learner.

However, consistency is important in implementing digital education platforms. Rather than hopping from one platform to another, schools need a strategic approach that considers factors such as budget, digital infrastructure, and curriculum alignment. Professional learning time must be prioritized to ensure that educators are proficient in utilizing these tools effectively. That is why choosing the right tool from the start is so vital.

Ultimately, personalized learning through digital education offers a transformative solution to the complex challenges faced by schools worldwide. Harnessing the power of education technology allows schools to also unlock their true potential when it comes to shining brightly during an inspection.

What Should We Look For?

When innovation and adaptability are fundamental to schools’ success, as well as inspection readiness, schools must seek edtech platforms that offer more than just promises of transformation. School leaders must prioritize solutions that provide immediate data insights proven to accelerate growth, cater to unique learner needs, and facilitate planning educators’ next moves with real-time data.

Platforms that provide immediate data insights are crucial for educators to make informed decisions promptly. Schools should be looking for platforms equipped with analytics capabilities that offer real-time data insights into student progress, allowing educators to adjust their teaching strategies dynamically. These insights should not only highlight areas of strength but also pinpoint areas requiring intervention, enabling educators to address learning gaps effectively.

Edtech platforms should address the diverse needs of students, which is paramount in today's classrooms. Schools should seek platforms that prioritize personalized learning experiences tailored to each student's unique abilities, pace, and preferences. These platforms should offer adaptive learning pathways that cater to individual strengths and challenges, ensuring that no student is left behind.

These digital platforms should also offer educators the ability to plan their next move with real-time data, as it is essential for fostering continuous improvement and staying inspection-ready. Schools need edtech platforms that not only collect data but also translate it into actionable insights for educators. These insights should guide instructional planning, curriculum development, and resource allocation, empowering educators to make data-driven decisions that enhance learning outcomes.

Schools should be looking for platforms that offer all of these elements. Otherwise, why are schools buying into them? How are they helping schools, educators, and most importantly, students succeed? By prioritizing what edtech provides educators and schools, we can revolutionize education and ensure the success of every learner.

Summary

1. The initial excitement surrounding edtech, just like AI and other innovative tools, needs careful implementation for lasting classroom benefits. Ensuring meaningful outcomes and sustained enthusiasm beyond the initial hype are crucial elements.
2. Effective edtech utilization demands meticulous platform selection from a range of stakeholders, focusing on how it can enhance learning experiences and showcase measurable progress, which allows for further personalization of curricula.
3. Personalized learning via digital platforms offers tailored solutions for diverse student needs, requiring strategic and consistent implementation to empower educators in creating dynamic, student-centered environments.

To continue reading: 

• Part Two: Stakeholder Perspectives - to understand how a robust and well-thought-out edtech platform can empower and support all of the school stakeholders involved.
• Part Three: Integrating Effectively - to realize that effective integration requires careful planning, strategic implementation, and continuous support.

The article is written by Philippa Wraithmell, founder of EdRuption—a dynamic consultancy at the forefront of educational transformation. Passionate about positive school leadership, meaningful technology integration, and safeguarding Philippa brings a wealth of expertise to the table. As an accomplished educator and award-winning author, Philippa’s expertise lies in integrating technology effectively into educational settings and her passion for meaningful technology integration has empowered schools to enhance student learning experiences.

Current Spend

As of the latest reporting period ending in December 2023, only ~60% of ARP ESSER funds were awarded. It should be noted that federal reporting only captures dollars spent, not just obligated. Experts agree that district spending is currently on track to meet spending deadlines.

• 99.6% of CARES Act funds for education have been spent and reimbursed as of Dec. 22.
• 97% of education funds under ESSER II/CRRSA have been spent and reimbursed as of Dec. 22.
• 58% of ARP funds have been spent and reimbursed as of Dec. 22.

Extension Requests

The U.S. Department of Education (USDE) have provided some flexibility for extending deadlines, but only for liquidation (pay of funds), not obligation. As of Jan. 17, no states have yet requested extended spending deadlines for K-12 funding for ARP ESSER. Most school districts don't plan to extend their deadline for spending federal pandemic relief funds (ESSER), with only 13% considering applying for extra time and 65% not seeking an extension.

USDE updated extension guidance (1/9/2024) advises states that intend to apply for an extended spending deadline for ARP ESSER funds must demonstrate how spending extensions would allow them to address learning loss. The department encourages extension investment in strategies to support student attendance, high-quality tutoring, and increase summer and extended learning time. Those with approved applications could spend ARP dollars through March 28, 2026, provided the money is obligated by Sept. 30, 2024.

• 12 states and the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico requested and received approvals for late liquidation for ESSER I: Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Mississippi, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wisconsin.
• Six states have approval for late liquidation under ESSER II: Delaware, Kentucky, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and South Carolina

Extension requests are just a stop gap measure for any district facing major budget deficits. Enrollment declines and rising employee salaries will persist past the end of any extension, meaning serious budget conversations will need to happen at the district level.

What Now?

Right now, school boards across the country are in the midst of working on their first budget post federal relief funds. A study of 200 school board budget meetings by Georgetown’s Edunomics Lab found, “the majority of trustees in these meetings aren’t engaging on budget discussions beyond a generic “let’s protect students and classrooms” statement or a “hearty thanks to the CFO for the presentation.” Too rarely do trustees investigate different budget options, weigh tradeoffs or explore expected impacts using student data.”

As you develop a balanced budget for the next fiscal year, here are some key questions to consider.

1. What’s the ROI?

Many elementary and secondary schools have very different needs than when they entered the pandemic, and shifting student demographics can drastically change state aid allocation. Re-assess programs and services introduced before the pandemic to determine if they still meet student needs. Do you have an ESSER investment that has seen a more significant positive impact than a prior investment? Check-out North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s ESSER Funding Cliff Toolkit for a step-by-step guide to reviewing and planning your budget post ESSER.

“The toolkit is designed to support leaders through the process of reviewing data, determining Return on Investment (ROI) for ESSER investments, and developing a budget process to support their 2024-2025 budget planning.  The toolkit is explicitly designed to support conversations and discussions between decision makers including the superintendent (or charter school leader), chief finance officer, and administrators with budgetary responsibilities. Reviewing data, determining ROI, and budgeting should be a collaborative effort that supports and encourages healthy, yet transparent, dialogue around which ESSER investments were most impactful to understand what should or should not be funded moving forward."

2. What Does the Community Say?

In times of budget cuts, there are no decisions that will make everyone happy. It is important to get the community’s feedback and buy-in on any drastic budget changes. Communicate student progress on purchases and spending priorities with stakeholders to justify any shift in spending priorities and how they have contributed to the school’s vision and goals.

3. Where Do Our ESSER Dollars Stand?

Take stock of your remaining portion of ESSER dollars. Will you be able to meet the obligation deadline? Schools can reduce the risk of losing all ESSER funded purchases at once by requesting an extension of liquidation or utilizing multi-year contract options. This way, if your school cannot allocate immediate replacement funding for a product or service, you can have extra time to do so while still keeping those supports for students.

Looking Ahead to the End of ESSER

Unfortunately, the end of ESSER is coinciding with falling district enrollments and slowing state revenues. Several states are moving to minimize their “hold harmless” policies, which shield districts from large drops in state aid to sudden enrollment declines.

In the coming months, districts must strike a delicate balance between addressing immediate needs and planning for long-term sustainability. By asking the right questions and making informed decisions, education leaders can confidently navigate the ESSER countdown and ensure that funds are utilized effectively to support student success well into the future.

1. Study Island’s Group Sessions

These game-based Group Sessions are created to help frazzled teachers conduct frenzied review sessions. It works best in 1:1 environments or at least with one device per small group.

2. Whiteboard Brainstorming

Provide each student with a small whiteboard and dry-erase markers, and pose a question related to the topic you’re studying (e.g., “What are the main causes of climate change?”). Students write down their ideas, keywords, or solutions on their whiteboards. After a set time, have them share their responses with a partner or the whole class.

3. Small-Group Study Guides

Break the class up into small groups and assign each group a specific topic related to the upcoming test. Each group creates a detailed study guide covering key concepts, definitions, and examples within their assigned topic. After completing their study guides, groups share their work with the class, facilitating peer learning and discussion.

4. Board Race

Divide the class into teams and designate a representative from each team. Present a series of questions related to the test material, and have the designated members race to the board to write the correct answers. The first team to successfully write the correct answer scores a point for their team. This activity not only reinforces knowledge recall but also encourages teamwork and quick thinking under pressure. Rotate team members for each question to ensure active participation and engagement from all students.

5. Trashketball

Divide students into teams of four. Each student needs a whiteboard and marker. The teacher reads a question, and students answer individually. Teams then confer to come up with a single answer. Correct answers allow a team member to crumple up paper and take a shot into a trash can. Add challenge by marking off 1, 2, and 3 point lines for their “trashketballs.”

6. Hot Stew Review

Create an engaging PowerPoint review game where students work collaboratively. Display a series of 20 questions and answers slides. After each question, students choose a “vegetable” from a virtual pot of stew. The following slide reveals how many points they’ve earned (which can be positive or negative). The random point values keep every team engaged until the last question.

6. Review Relay Race

Divide the class into teams. Set up a relay race with review questions stationed at different points. When a team member reaches a question, they must answer it correctly before passing the baton to the next runner. The team that completes the relay first wins.

7. Escape Room Challenge

Design a mini escape room experience in the classroom. Students solve puzzles or answer review questions to unlock clues and progress through the “room.” The final clue leads to a hidden reward or bonus points.

8. Test Review Bingo

Create bingo cards filled with key terms, concepts, or questions relevant to the upcoming test. Distribute the bingo cards to students and explain that they must listen carefully as you call out definitions, examples, or answers to questions. Students mark off the corresponding squares on their bingo cards as they hear the called-out items. The first student to achieve a bingo (horizontal, vertical, or diagonal line) shouts "Bingo!" and is rewarded with a small prize or bonus points.

9. Crossword Puzzle Challenge

Use Online Puzzle Maker to make your own crossword puzzle. Divide the class into small teams and give each team a copy of the crossword puzzle. Encourage teams to work together to solve the clues and fill in the puzzle grid. Offer hints or additional explanations for challenging clues as needed to support student understanding. The first team to successfully complete the crossword puzzle or the team with the most correct answers within a set time limit wins the challenge.

10. Gallery Walk

Post review questions around the classroom. Students move from question to question, writing down their answers on a response sheet. They can also add comments or additional insights. This active review method gets students up and moving while reinforcing key concepts.

11. Classroom Topic Centers

Transform your classroom into a series of topic centers, each dedicated to a specific area of study related to the upcoming test. Divide students into small groups and assign each group to a starting center. Set a timer for a designated amount of time, then instruct groups to rotate to the next center in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. At each center, students engage with review materials, activities, or discussions focused on the assigned topic. Encourage students to actively participate, ask questions, and collaborate with their group members.

12. Raffle Tickets

Implement a raffle ticket system as a fun and incentivizing way to encourage active participation in test review activities. Distribute raffle tickets to students for each correct answer, insightful contribution, or demonstration of effort during the review session. At the end of the session or week, hold a raffle drawing where students can exchange their tickets for the chance to win prizes or rewards.

13. Kahoot! Quiz

Create an interactive and engaging review session using the popular Kahoot! platform. Here’s how it works: First, the teacher prepares a set of review questions related to the exam content. Next, students log in to Kahoot! using their devices (such as smartphones or tablets). The teacher launches the quiz, and students compete to answer the questions correctly within a time limit. Points are awarded for correct answers, and the leaderboard displays real-time rankings.

14. Mindfulness and Meditation

In the whirlwind of last-minute test preparations, it's essential to remember the power of mindfulness in easing student stress and promoting focus. Incorporating brief sessions of guided meditation or structured breathing exercises can provide a much-needed respite from the intensity of review sessions. So, when the reviewing becomes overwhelming, take a moment to embrace mindfulness—it's a simple yet invaluable tool in navigating the challenges of test season.

15. Chair-Based Stretching

Consider incorporating simple stretches that students can perform discreetly while seated, such as neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, and wrist rotations. These gentle movements not only help alleviate muscle tightness and promote blood circulation but also provide a brief moment of relaxation amidst the rigors of test-taking. Encourage students to take periodic stretch breaks during longer exam sessions to refresh both body and mind, ultimately enhancing their focus and performance.

Educators, testing season is almost over. The finish line is within reach, and your unwavering commitment is making a difference. Keep pushing forward, and remember that your hard work and dedication empower the next generation.

Looking for more ways to prepare for testing season? Explore our article, The Educator’s Ultimate Guide to Preparing for High-Stakes Testing.

Why Is Arab American Heritage Month Important?

Arab American Heritage Month was first recognized in April 1995 by the Arab American Institute, a non-profit organization that promotes the civic and political engagement of Arab Americans. While the exact origins may vary, the designation of April as Arab American Heritage Month gained momentum in the late 20th century. The establishment of Arab American Heritage Month provided a dedicated platform for acknowledging the diverse experiences and contributions of Arab Americans.

Arab Americans have been integral to the fabric of American society for centuries. From the late 19th century to the present day, waves of Arab immigrants have brought with them their expertise, talents, and cultural heritage. Their contributions span across various fields, including science, medicine, education, politics, business, arts, and culture. Arab American Heritage Month shines a spotlight on these contributions, acknowledging the vital role Arab Americans play in shaping the nation's identity and progress.

Exploring Arab American Trailblazers

Arab American Heritage Month provides a prime opportunity to spotlight the remarkable achievements of influential individuals within the Arab American community. From trailblazing artists to groundbreaking scientists, Arab Americans have made indelible marks across various fields. Here are a few notable figures worth celebrating:

• Ralph Nader: Renowned for his consumer advocacy and environmental activism, Ralph Nader has been a prominent figure in American politics for decades. His tireless efforts have led to numerous reforms and policy changes aimed at protecting consumer rights and promoting corporate accountability.
• Hala Alyan: A celebrated poet and novelist, Hala Alyan's literary works explore themes of identity, displacement, and the immigrant experience. Her critically acclaimed novels, such as "Salt Houses" and "The Arsonists' City," have earned her widespread acclaim and recognition in the literary world.
• Dr. Michael DeBakey: A pioneering cardiovascular surgeon, Dr. Michael DeBakey revolutionized the field of medicine with his innovative surgical techniques and medical inventions. His contributions to cardiac surgery have saved countless lives and continue to inspire future generations of medical professionals.
• Paula Abdul: Widely known for her multifaceted career as a singer, dancer, choreographer, and television personality, Paula Abdul has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. As one of the most successful Arab American artists in history, Abdul's influence extends far beyond the stage and screen.
• Dr. Elias Zerhouni: A distinguished physician-scientist and former director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Dr. Elias Zerhouni has played a pivotal role in advancing medical research and innovation. His leadership at the NIH has led to significant breakthroughs in healthcare and biomedical science.

Tips to Celebrate Arab American Heritage Month

Celebrate Arab American Heritage Month by engaging students in a journey of exploration and appreciation. Here are some ideas for how to make the most of this month in your classroom:

1. Explore Arab American History: Dive into the rich history of Arab Americans in the United States, from early immigration waves to contemporary contributions in various fields such as literature, science, politics, and the arts. Encourage students to research prominent Arab American figures and their impact on American society.
2. Host Cultural Exchanges: Organize cultural exchanges where students can learn about Arab American traditions, cuisine, music, and art. Invite guest speakers from Arab American communities to share their experiences and insights, encouraging dialogue and understanding.
3. Engage in Literature Studies: Incorporate literature written by Arab American authors into your curriculum. Select books, poems, and essays that reflect the diverse experiences and perspectives within the Arab American community, sparking meaningful discussions about identity, belonging, and cultural heritage.
4. Highlight Arab American Achievements: Showcase the achievements of Arab American trailblazers in various fields, including science, technology, business, and activism. Use multimedia presentations, biographies, and interactive activities to spotlight their contributions and inspire students to pursue their passions.

Arab American Heritage Month Classroom Resources

To help you celebrate Arab American Heritage Month in your classroom, we have put together a list of online resources, including lesson plans, interactive activities, multimedia resources, and more:

1. Arab American National Museum (AANM): Explore the AANM's online resources, including educational materials, virtual exhibits, and oral history archives that provide valuable insights into Arab American history, culture, and identity.
2. Learning for Justice - Arab American Heritage Month: Access articles that assist educators in promoting diversity and inclusion in the classroom. Learning for Justice offers valuable tools for discussing Arab American heritage, combating stereotypes, and fostering empathy among students.
3. PBS - Celebrate Arab American Heritage Month: Explore a curated selection of documentaries and programs on PBS.org or the PBS app to celebrate Arab American Heritage Month, delving into untold stories spanning almost 200 years of contributions and heartwarming narratives of community resilience and identity.
4. Arab American Heritage Month Events: Stay updated on events and activities happening nationwide during Arab American Heritage Month by visiting event calendars and community organization websites.
5. Teach Mideast - Arab American Heritage Month Resource Guide: Discover an array of educational materials, cultural events, and community programs to commemorate Arab American Heritage Month, providing insight into the rich history, diverse culture, and enduring contributions of Arab Americans throughout the United States.

With the resources and ideas mentioned in this article, you can help your students learn about and appreciate the rich and diverse Arab heritage and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.

Looking for more engaging classroom resources to enhance your April holidays celebrations? Explore our article featuring free resources and activities tailored for International Children’s Book Day, Earth Day, National Math & Statistics Month, and more.

1. Address the Summer School Situation

If you are teaching in a mandatory summer learning program, you probably have a room full of struggling learners who know they are struggling learners. This means that morale is probably low and that your students may not believe it’s possible for them to learn what they need to.

Consider addressing this situation head-on with your students on the first day. Try saying something like, "I know coming to school probably isn't how you wanted to spend your summer, but you are all here because there are some concepts you need some more time with in order to master. You are going to have to do the work, but I'll be here every step of the way to support you and help succeed. If you put in the effort this summer, it will pay off for you next year."

Being straightforward with students by addressing their challenges, fears, and possible negativity helps build essential trust. It will also remind them that everyone else in the room is likely feeling the same way that they are.

2. Individualize Summer Learning Through a Competency-Based Model

Summer school usually lasts four to eight weeks, which doesn’t often leave enough time to reteach a year's worth of curriculum. The best way to address the needs of every student is to individualize instruction through a competency-based model.

Start with a pre-assessment to identify what each student knows and needs to learn. Then, sit down with each student for a five-minute conference to review their results and set goals for the topics they need to master each week. Have students work only on their assigned topics and allow them to move on once they can demonstrate mastery.

Students will appreciate not having to re-learn concepts they already know. Having a manageable path laid out to master the concepts that they struggle with will motivate them to stay engaged.

3. Keep Students on Track by Intervening Immediately

When students struggle during summer school, they need intervention even more urgently than during the school year due to the shortened timeline. Implementing competency-based learning will help you accurately track each student's progress, so as soon as you notice a student not moving forward as he or she should, make time for immediate intervention.

The student could be legitimately struggling with the concept or just starting to slow down because of a loss of engagement. Either way, your continued support and encouragement will help your students stay on track in summer school.

4. Involve Parents

Some parents are involved in every aspect of their child's education. Others defer the responsibility to schools, often because they don't feel they have the time or ability to help.

However, parents understand that if their child has to attend a mandatory academic summer school, their child has fallen behind in some way. Parents want their children to be successful, so capitalize on this heightened interest to get them involved.

Walk parents through their child’s goals and suggest specific things they can do to help. It’s also important to set expectations about how often you will communicate with parents about their child’s summer school progress and potential intervention steps.

5. Reward Students for Their Efforts

Tapping into students' intrinsic motivators is often the best way to keep them engaged in learning. Using a competency-based instruction model and having students work toward goals are powerful strategies to do just that. But there is no reason you can't sweeten the deal by offering some small communal rewards for achievement.

Try something simple, like giving students 30 minutes of free time on Friday. To make this work, perhaps compile all of your students' weekly goals into one weekly “topics mastered” goal for the class. Then, with the class, set a percentage of that total goal that must be met as a class to earn the prize. Use a visual chart to display the goal, and each time students master a topic, have them add it to the chart.

Students will love having the opportunity to show off their progress, and you'll notice their classmates will cheer for them because each student's achievement helps the whole class move toward the reward. An incentive like this can go a long way toward building the class community and a sense of accountability that will motivate all of your students and keep students on track in summer school to succeed.

Keep Students on Track in Summer School with Edmentum

Interested in learning about how Edmentum’s research-based solutions can help make your summer learning program successful? Check out our Summer Planning & Success Toolkit.

With the support of our highly qualified, state-certified online teachers, your students can make progress toward their academic and career goals this summer.

EdOptions Academy Summer Learning Courses #1: Get Ahead with Advanced Placement Courses

Summer break is an outstanding opportunity for students to get ahead and potentially lighten their workload for the upcoming school year. It’s also a great time for students to get a head start on Advanced Placement coursework to ensure they are well-prepared to ace that AP test when the time comes.

Students can explore advanced options in core subjects, take courses to brush up on ACT and SAT topics, or even prepare for the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) exam.

Check out the complete EdOptions Academy College and Career Readiness course library.

EdOptions Academy Summer Learning Courses #2: Get Active This Summer with Lifetime & Leisure Sports

Health and physical education credits can sometimes be challenging to squeeze in during the school year. The good news is that students don’t need to be in a gym to fulfill these credits. Courses like Lifetime & Leisure Sports help students build real-world skills—and our virtual teachers make the courses fun.

Students can build on personal passions for health and fitness with more advanced courses like Personal Training Concepts and Sports Officiating. For students looking for options that are a little less sports-centric, EdOptions Academy summer learning courses also offer options like Health & Personal Wellness and Life Skills.

Check out the complete EdOptions Academy Health and Fitness course library.

EdOptions Academy Summer Learning Courses #3: Expand Horizons by Learning a New Language

Without the full course load of the school year, not to mention after-school clubs and extracurricular activities, summer break is a great chance for students to dive deep into a specific topic—such as learning a new language.

Whether students are interested in pursuing a language not currently offered at their school or looking to get ahead on college requirements, EdOptions Academy summer learning courses offer rigorous classes of Chinese, French, German, and Spanish to help students start down the path to fluency and build cultural knowledge.

Check out the complete EdOptions Academy World Languages course library.

EdOptions Academy Summer Learning Courses #4: Prepare for a Future Career as a Certified Nurse Aide

The demand for Certified Nursing Aides (CNA) is huge, and EdOptions Academy can help your students obtain that real-world credential. Our Certified Nurse Aide course helps students develop an understanding of the human body, build the skills necessary to provide high-quality care, and prepare students to take the NNAAP exam.

For students looking to enter other career fields, EdOptions Academy features more than 160 semesters of courses covering 12 career clusters and enables 42 multi-year course pathways. Our career learning library offers courses to help learners explore career themes, learn technical skills, and develop durable skills to accelerate employability, all while earning a high school diploma.

Check out the complete EdOptions Academy Career and Technical Education course library.

EdOptions Academy Summer Learning Courses #5: This Summer, Explore a Personal Passion like Fashion 

Sometimes, students just don’t have room in their class schedules to take all the fun electives they’d like. Summer is a great time to take some of those courses that sound interesting but may not fit within graduation requirements, like fashion.

No matter what your students are passionate about, chances are they can find an EdOptions Academy course that grabs their attention, like Gothic Literature, Social Issues, Creative Writing, and so many more. Plus, these elective courses can help students explore career and college course interests.

Check out the complete EdOptions Academy Secondary Electives course library. 

Explore More EdOptions Academy Summer Learning Courses

Interested in learning more about how EdOptions Academy’s engaging digital curriculum and outstanding virtual teachers can help your school or district deliver a summer school program that students will be excited about? Check out this brochure for details on summer learning solutions from EdOptions Academy.

1. Think It Through: To Assess or Not to Assess

One key to a successful Exact Path implementation over the summer months is making sure your students have individualized learning paths at their learning level. The best way to start is by administering Edmentum's adaptive diagnostic assessment. Use the assessment to benchmark specific strengths and needs across our entire K–12 learning progression and confirm that learning will start in the right place.

If you recently assessed students toward the close of the school year and already have a good idea of where learning should start, or you generally feel like you need more time to assess, there are other options.

For one, you can auto-generate an on-grade learning path that reviews all skills from the grade level students just completed. This gives them an opportunity to revisit and reinforce everything they recently learned to support a successful start to the upcoming school year.

Additionally, if you’d like to meet students where they are, you can check in with the knowledge map to see how they have been tracking during the previous school year. If things look good, let them keep working through their required skills during the summer months. Finally, you can manually edit learning paths by domain for small one-off tweaks.

If you’re looking for ways to help students address unfinished learning or acceleration needs from home, use the assessment with our at-home diagnostic administration guide. To prepare, you may want to carefully communicate to both students and parents just how this assessment works. Remember that a computer-adaptive test is not about earning a score of 100 percent.

Rather, the assessment is about figuring out what students know and don’t know so that instruction begins at the right level. That means parents or guardians may negatively affect students’ learning paths when they help them with difficult problems. Encourage students to make their best guess when they need to. The testing algorithm will adapt in real-time to deliver appropriate questions that zero in on each student’s strengths and needs.

If you’re leveraging data from one of our assessment partners—NWEA or Renaissance—ensure that spring testing is complete so students can start working right away. Remember that each fresh assessment administration means that students can receive an updated learning path, ensuring that the curriculum they’re set to work on best fits their unique academic needs.

2. Set Up Exact Path Summer Learning Challenges

A little friendly competition goes a long way. If you want to keep things interesting over the summer months, consider setting up challenges in Exact Path for your students. Challenges allow teachers to define and set customized goals for specific learners or classes. These goals can be based on time-on-task or skill mastery to encourage engagement in a variety of ways.

Students can monitor the challenges they need to work on and watch their challenge badges accumulate as they meet each learning goal. You also may want to check out our Exact Path contest toolkit for tips and guidance to create your own summer learning competition using built-in challenges and trophies as your guide.

To keep engagement steady throughout the summer, try setting up weekly challenges so students have small, achievable goals that frequently reset. Another option for this feature is to add something to help sweeten the deal—you can customize prizes to tie into earning challenge badges.

For in-person summer programs, celebrate students’ accomplishments and allow them to show off their certificates earned for each badge they earn. If summer learning happens in a less structured, more self-directed environment, work with teachers in the next grade level to help follow up on learning gains made over the summer and consider partnering on incentives that can be given out when school resumes. This flexible feature allows you to decide the level of encouragement each student needs.

3. Build Exact Path Summer Learning Assignments

While your students will automatically have on-target content to work on in their learning paths, layering in assignments will help you ensure that your learners focus on specific standards and skills you think are important during the summer months. Use this feature to make sure students can engage with the curriculum for the next grade level or, conversely, use assignments to help address unfinished learning and remediate skill gaps.

No matter your path, the assignments feature allows you to search for lessons, educational videos, and printable worksheets by skill or standard.

4. Create Family Buy-In

So, how do you ensure that your grand plans for summer learning won’t be for naught? Gain buy-in from families, of course.

Once you’ve outlined your expectations or recommendations for students over the summer, communicate them to your students’ families. Help parents and guardians understand that interruptions to in-person learning over the past few school years only further confirm the need for summer acceleration and enrichment for all students.

Try sending home our editable summer learning parent letter in English or Spanish. You can even customize it to add in your own suggested summer plan or incentives for staying on track.

We also recommend checking in with parents to assess their access to technology during the summer months. You might consider customizing printable packets for students with limited options to support learning.

For more tips that will brighten summer learning, check out our top 10 tips for summer school success.

If you’re already feeling your jaw clench just thinking about resources to put on a summer school program, you can relax. Our Courseware digital curricula can be taught using your own teachers, of course, but we also can assist you with a completely virtual option that utilizes our own state-certified EdOptions Academy teachers.

Using Courseware Digital Curricula in Your Summer School Program

EdOptions Academy is our fully accredited virtual school, and it provides the flexibility to fit learning into busy summer schedules with anytime, anywhere access to mobile-friendly, engaging curricula and dedicated instructor support and guidance. Here are a few engaging ways you can customize your students’ learning this summer.

1. Recover Lost Credits

We know that a significant summer school need for middle and high school students is credit recovery. For students who are just a few credits shy of a grade-level promotion or even graduation, summer school is a game changer. 

Our customizable Courseware digital curricula can be a perfect fit for this need, allowing students to target the skills, units, or entire courses they need to earn credit. Even better, the robust curricula and self-paced nature of our program allows for fewer teacher resources while students independently work on only what they need to recover credits.

Additionally, our accelerated mini courses (five to nine weeks in length) allow students to accelerate to high school math (Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2) and ELA (English 9–12) content by providing direct instruction and support on essential skills. 

These courses intentionally cover some of the highest-need credit recovery areas to ensure that you’re giving your students the best changes to meet their graduation goals. Each mini course begins with a pretest, allowing students to skip over the content they already know so that they can focus their efforts on the content they don’t. 

This approach ensures that students master more content in even less time.

2. Bridge Difficult Grade Transitions

Some grade transitions are more difficult than others for students. The transition from 8th grade to 9th grade, for example, is a notorious spot in education transition where students often struggle and need more support. In fact, research tells us that student performance in 9th grade is a strong indicator of later high school success or failure.

Courseware digital curricula can be a powerful tool to drive a successful summer bridge program. With Courseware, students can focus not only on skill gaps with specific Flex Assignments but also get exposure to study skills and career exploration using courses found in our robust elective and career and technical education (CTE) libraries.

3. Enrich Learning and Get Ahead

Summer learning is also a great programmatic option for students on an accelerated path—those who may desire scheduling flexibility, the charge to get ahead, or even exposure to new topics and courses they might not otherwise get the opportunity to explore. Additional support from Courseware allows students to learn without overtaxing teachers.

For students on this path, summer break might be the perfect time to choose from a list of fun electives in our electives library, such as mythology and folklore, music appreciation, and archaeology. Explore even more of these exciting electives and CTE course options in our full Courseware course catalog.

Once you’ve decided which needs your summer school program is best suited to solve, it’s time to really dig in and start planning. Explore our four-step process to do this successfully by checking out our article, Planning Your Instruction with Courseware.

Amidst the pressures of testing season, nurturing a vibrant school culture becomes crucial to support students and staff alike. Here are ways to make sure your school’s culture shows through, even during the most stressful weeks of the school year.

Greet the Students with Enthusiasm During Testing Season

Before every sporting event, someone announces the starting lineup with fanfare, pyrotechnics, and applause—all of which are designed to generate excitement and establish a temporary culture for the game. Many schools have adopted the same technique for the first day of school (minus the fireworks).

But in the life of a student who has trained for months, testing season is game time.

A hearty greeting for every student before testing can fill them with a belief they wouldn’t have felt otherwise. Enlist everyone you can, from parents to the mail person, to help you welcome your athletes to their arena.

Notes of Affirmation, Especially During Testing Season

The best teachers are masters at making every student feel valued every day, but that can be a challenge during the crazy scheduling of the testing season.

However, it doesn’t take much time to read a Post-It note.

Before the test, have your teachers write every student a brief note of encouragement and then find a way for the students to receive them before the testing season.

The content can range from the affirmative (“You’ve got this!”) to offering non-academic advice (“Remember to breathe”). Tailor each note to the individual student, acknowledging their unique strengths, efforts, and aspirations. Address them by name and highlight specific qualities or accomplishments that demonstrate their capabilities.

Remind them of their resilience, determination, and ability to overcome challenges. Every student will feel noticed.

Celebrate Achievements and Progress

Testing season is an important time to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements and progress of students, both academically and personally. Share ideas for organizing recognition ceremonies, awarding certificates of achievement, and publicly acknowledging student accomplishments to foster a sense of pride and motivation. Highlight specific examples of growth, effort, perseverance, or acts of kindness that demonstrate their dedication and commitment to their academic goals.

Promote Self-Care and Wellness

During testing season, prioritizing self-care and wellness is paramount for both students and educators. Encouraging regular breaks, mindfulness exercises, and relaxation techniques can help alleviate test stress and prevent burnout. Educators should model healthy habits and emphasize the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle, including adequate sleep, nutrition, and physical activity. Providing opportunities for students to engage in activities that promote relaxation and emotional well-being, such as guided meditation, journaling, or yoga, can empower them to manage stress effectively and perform at their best.

Take Time for Something (Anything) Else

Students cannot escape during testing season. They spend class time in preparation. Parents ask about it instead of a greeting. Even the local news will run stories complete with stock footage of eager students bouncing into school (taken earlier in the year). By the end, they feel like robots.

Take time they would have used for last-minute cramming or running movies after testing season and guide the students in worthwhile activities that can help inside the testing room and out, such as relaxation techniques, stretching exercises, and visualization. You make better use of that time, and students have time to reconnect with their classmates and teachers.

By prioritizing a resilient school culture grounded in support, encouragement, and holistic well-being, educators can navigate testing season with positivity and empower students to perform their best while feeling valued and supported.

Looking for more tips on how to achieve success as a district administrator? Check out these 10 essential skills every superintendent needs.

To help make this time of year a little easier on you, we’ve put together a few teacher tips for getting your classroom and your students ready to rock testing this year!

1. Prepare Your Classroom and Your Students

If you know you’ll need to take down decorations, cover posters or clocks, change seating arrangements, or make any other cosmetic changes to your classroom before testing day, try to do as much as you can in advance so that your students aren’t walking into an unfamiliar classroom on the morning of the test. It may feel a little weird at first, but doing what you can to create a similar environment to one that your students will test in gives everyone the chance to settle in and get comfortable so that no one feels thrown off by the classroom’s new look when it’s time to focus on testing.

If you know that your students will need to be proctored by another teacher during testing, or that you will need to proctor another teacher’s class, arrange time in the week prior to testing when you can swap classes for a little while so that your students can have time to adjust to someone new and can feel comfortable testing with that teacher in the room. Taking all these steps in advance will not only help your students feel more relaxed on assessment day but also remove any last-minute stresses over preparing your classroom the night before.

2. Check on Your Classroom Supplies

You don’t want to realize on test day that your classroom is fresh out of tissues, spare pencils, extra snacks, or other vital classroom supplies. At least a week before testing, stock up on extra scratch paper, pencils with good erasers, a few boxes of granola bars, and some mini bottled waters. If you normally keep a supply of backup testing necessities in the classroom, make sure that it is well stocked.

3. Tidy Up and Organize in Advance

You probably don’t need to go full KonMari Method, but taking a moment to quickly tidy up your classroom and your desk a few weeks out from testing day might not be a bad idea. Besides getting you reacquainted with where important test-day supplies are stored (because every teacher knows that classroom supplies have a habit of getting disorganized as the school year goes on), cleaning and organizing your classroom may help you de-stress or feel a sense of calm by reestablishing your control over your environment.

4. Give Frequent Last-minute Reminders

Keeping caregivers and families and students in the loop about testing schedules and procedures makes a big difference. But, just like cramming for a test the night before doesn’t work, reminding your students and their caregivers of test times, what-to-bring lists, and question strategies the night before an exam won’t give them enough time to really digest the information.

Instead, send home any testing-related literature a few weeks early, and provide regular reminders after that. See if you can reserve a few minutes during morning class announcements or before the end of the day to review testing info with students.

You can even share out a super handy test-taking checklists for elementary and secondary grade levels, designed to help students prepare for upcoming assessments!

5. Don’t Forget About Yourself

We’ve heard time and time again about the importance of self-care during times of stress, but it’s worth mentioning around test time. To help you prepare for times when you can expect stress or anxiety, take a moment to think of some activities you can store away in your self-care toolbox—something that recharges you, something that relaxes you, or something that soothes when you're having a hard time.

Self-care activities can be anything such as calling a friend to catch up one evening, drawing a bubble bath and lighting a candle, going for a run, getting eight hours of sleep, or saying no to something when you feel you are at your capacity. Remember that self-care should never feel like extra work on your plate and that it will look a little different for everyone. The important thing is that you take care of yourself so that you can be on top of your game for your students.

Looking for more teacher tips to get ready for assessments this year? Check out our article, The Complete Test Day Success Guide for our favorite test-preparation tips.

Set the Tone for Testing Success

Your students are always playing “follow the leader,” even when they don’t realize it. As an educator, you spend a lot of time with your class, and students will naturally look to you as a model for behavior. If you let stress get the best of you during standardized testing season, there’s a good chance your students will mirror that stress. Here are four ways to make your classroom (whether it is virtual or in person) a low(er)-stress environment.

1. Build trust

Every educator knows that relationships are at the core of teaching and learning. By focusing on those close relationships with your students throughout the school year, you’ll build up trust that can make testing season a much smoother time of year. Make sure that students are clear on classroom expectations and avoid surprising them with unexpected quizzes or assignments. When students know they can count on you and can go to you with problems, those are the first steps toward a positive classroom environment.

2. Admit that test stress can be a problem

Test anxiety (especially this year) is a real thing, and it’s OK to talk about it with your students. Ask students how they’re feeling about upcoming exams and acknowledge your own stress. Keep in mind that test anxiety won’t look the same in any two students, so make sure that you’re familiar with all the symptoms. Keep an eye out for physical or behavioral signs and take the time to understand the sources of different students’ stress. It’s also beneficial to make it a priority to communicate with classroom families and caregivers and other school staff about test anxiety and the impact it has on student performance during standardized testing. The more support you can offer students, the better their exams will go.

3. Keep things in perspective

In the grand scheme of things, no single test is going to define students’ academic careers or have that significant of an impact on their future. After all, it’s just one test. As an adult with years of experience on the roller coaster of life, chances are you can grasp this reality more easily than your students. So, make it a priority to share this perspective with your students regularly, and offer plenty of gentle reminders that no test defines how smart, successful, or worthy they are. It may also be helpful to acknowledge how proud students should feel that they have continued to make progress during school years like no one has ever experienced before.

4. Maintain positivity

A little positive thinking can go a long way. Instead of focusing on all the material that still needs to be reviewed (or how challenging this school year has been), remind your students that you believe in their abilities and simply encourage them to put forth their best effort. As test days approach, keep the mood light in your classroom by infusing fun into review exercises, celebrating students’ hard work, and making time to ask students about things not related to school.

Looking for more tips on creating a supportive classroom environment? Take a look at this article on The Key to Testing Season: Your School Culture.

Focus on Effective Test-Taking Strategies

Test taking is, without a doubt, a skill that can be learned. And by treating it as such in your classroom, you can help students overcome self-doubts and do their best when testing day arrives. Make time in your test-prep schedule to focus on these test-taking strategies in addition to standard content review.

• Work with students to build a personal study schedule

• Familiarize students with the format of the test, including technology-enhanced item types they will encounter

• Help students break down complicated questions or problems into discrete tasks

• Introduce mnemonic devices as a way to help students remember terms and concepts

• Coach students to read each question entirely before answering

• Focus on time management, and encourage students to skip over questions they don’t understand and return to them at the end of the test as time allows

Borrow from Mindfulness Approaches

This almost certainly is not the first time you’ve heard about the value of mindfulness when it comes to managing stress. Simple strategies, both while you’re preparing for tests with students in the classroom and when students are actually taking their exams, can go a long way toward ensuring that students are able to truly demonstrate their knowledge. Here are six of our favorite mindfulness strategies to start with.

1. Create a “calm down spot”

Designate a quiet corner in your classroom where students can go when they need to take a few moments to calm their anxiety. Make sure that your “calm down spot” has comfy seating, and stock it with sensory items like fidget spinners, stress balls, and headphones for calming music. You can also hang up posters with breathing exercises or keep a stack of reflection sheets for students to journal about their feelings. If your students are learning virtually from home, suggest to them and their families that they make their own “calm down spot” where they can excuse themselves if they need a moment.

2. Teach students how to breathe mindfully

Focusing on breath is so simple and so effective. Teach students some basic mindful breathing exercises that they can use anytime, anywhere (including during tests) to help them calm down and be more present. Even having students simply place a hand on their belly to observe how it expands and contracts with their breath can have a significant calming effect.

3. Lead guided meditations

Guided meditation can be a great tool to help students calm down and focus on the task at hand. Try leading your students in a simple, short (5- to 10-minute) guided meditation to kick off test review sessions—you can even incorporate some visualizations of what success on their upcoming test will feel like.

4. Encourage mindful coloring

Not every moment of the school day needs to be dedicated to intentional review and test preparation. Coloring, especially using mandalas and other pattern sheets, can be a great way to give students a mental break, decrease test anxiety, and improve focus.

5. Come up with a mantra

We all have a continuous stream of self-talk, and that inner monologue can have a huge effect on stress levels. Working with your students to come up with a classwide or personal mantra to use during their test can be a great approach to help students manage their self-talk, maintain that critical positive attitude, and stay focused.

6. Give yoga a try

Humans aren’t designed for endless hours of sitting at desks—so is it any surprise that students tend to get anxious and fidgety in the classroom? Try incorporating movement into your classroom routine when preparing for tests to give students a much-needed break with simple yoga poses. Plus, yoga is a great way for students to tap into the calming power of their own breathing.

Tips to avoid burnout

Vary your instructional methods

Now is the time for everyone to put on differentiation hats. A classroom style built around passive listening during lectures or videos only adds to the monotony of testing season. The right activity after a major test can rejuvenate minds rather than sap them of dwindling energy. Speaking of which . . .

Lay off the movies

Since the dawn of the filmstrip, teachers have relied on movies to give a much-deserved rest to students who have just slogged through a big test. Although students may say all they want to do is zone out, passive movie watching isn’t the best idea. Instead, break out your bag of fun educational activities, and give your students input in how they spend their time between testing periods. You may be surprised at how much they gravitate toward a fun game, even when they thought they had no more brain cells left to donate.


Be systematic in your studying

As testing season rolls on, every cram session takes a toll on student performance. If students are trying to stuff their minds with last-minute knowledge both at school and at home, something has to give. This busy time is when your organizational skills become golden. Schedule the intervening periods between tests down to the minute so that students know what to expect in your class and understand how you will keep everything to a manageable pace. You’ll spend a lot of time printing calendars and writing on the board, but the students will thank you.

Change the environment

Any novelty serves as an energetic pulse to the brain, and one of the easiest ways to produce those new sensations is to change the class. Move furniture around, or take the students outside to study if the weather is nice. The mind learns better if it can recall the context in which it absorbed new information, so being able to remember a certain fact because it was studied outside under a tree can help.

Looking for more ideas to bring calmness to class? Check out this blog post on three easy ways to bring mindfulness to the classroom.

Ready to take a real deep dive into all things related to testing season? Check out Edmentum’s Test Prep Toolkit. Whether you’re looking for more stress-busting strategies, test day success, or general review-session ideas, we have you covered. 

This post was originally published in March 2019 and has been updated.

Assuming that your curriculum is aligned to relevant standards and you’ve been following it all year, cramming shouldn’t be necessary. If anything, cramming could increase any test-related anxiety your students may already be facing.

High-stakes testing can feel like a marathon to students, sitting in their desks for potentially multiple hours, expected to quietly concentrate the entire time. So, instead of frantically reviewing content, focus your limited time on preparing students for the experience of taking the test. Here are four tips that will help your students train for the “marathon.”

Create a Culture of Positivity Before the Test

As the old saying goes, “Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re probably right.” Help your students get in the right mindset by asking them to think about what will happen when they meet their testing goals. Perhaps squeeze in a quick writing assignment asking students to picture themselves achieving some kind of academic goal, such as taking honors classes next year, graduating, being accepted to a college, or landing a cool internship. The mind is a powerful tool, and taking time to envision success can go a long way toward making it a reality.

Administer a Practice Test

Practice tests are a great way to prepare students for high-stakes testing, primarily because they give students a chance to get comfortable with the test format. Especially in the case of online tests, it’s critical for students to be familiar with the type of device they’ll be using, online test navigation, and technology-enhanced item types they may encounter.

Additionally, a practice round gives students some insight into timing. Most children don’t know what an hour (or any other time limit) feels like. They might get on a roll, look up at the clock, realize they only have 10 minutes left and rush through the rest of the section. Practice helps them understand what they can get done in a certain amount of time.

Also, testing often requires teachers to speak from a script. This can be distracting for students who are used to their teachers being much more casual. Find an old script, and get your students accustomed to what a testing period actually sounds like.

Brush Up on Breathing and Stretching

Have you ever sat in your classroom desks? If you have, you know that stretching can offer some serious relief to tired students. Spend some time researching effective stretching while seated, like this video from the Mayo Clinic, and then share the techniques with your students. Breathing exercises have also been proven to lower stress levels in 10 minutes or less; plus, they can help get students’ brains fully oxygenated and calm nerves. Not only will your students thank you at the end of testing week, but they will also respond with improved focus and (hopefully) higher scores.

Stock Up on Supplies Now

Food is fuel, and if your students skip breakfast, hunger can quickly become a major source of distraction on test day. Organize your colleagues and make a concerted effort to provide some healthy, hearty snacks for students on test day (trail mix, granola bars, and fruit are all easy options). Look for sales at warehouse clubs and grocery stores to keep the bill in check.

And, of course, plenty of students will forget to bring pencils for the test. If you still test using paper (or students are able to use scratch paper), start looking for deals on pencils now—it’s likely you’ll save the day for at least one student when the testing period rolls around.

Even with the best planning and preparation, there is no way around the stress of high-stakes testing. Don’t let it get the best of your students—check out this article on tips to over come test-season stress.

1. Collaborate With Your Peers

Although more and more schools are embracing inclusive classrooms, there remains a frequent disconnect between standard content teachers and English language instructors. Make it a priority to keep open lines of communication between these groups. For instance, imagine a scenario where a standard content teacher and an English language instructor collaborate on lesson planning for a unit on persuasive writing. The standard content teacher shares insights into the content expectations and academic language requirements, while the English language instructor suggests strategies to support language development and comprehension for ELLs. Together, they design activities that integrate academic language practice into the content curriculum, ensuring that ELLs have the necessary support to succeed in both language acquisition and subject mastery.

Regular collaboration helps both kinds of instructors better understand their students’ areas of strength and weakness and provide targeted instruction. It’s also a great opportunity for educators to ask questions as peers, share effective instructional practices, and problem solve.

2. Leverage Formative Assessment Data

As is true for all students, preparation is key for ELLs when it comes to high-stakes testing. And classroom formative assessments, which more and more educators are utilizing, are a great place to start. These quick, informal knowledge checks offer a huge degree of flexibility in how they can be administered. This allows educators to make use of oral and project or performance-based formats that often measure ELLs actual content knowledge better than standard written or multiple choice summative assessments. Educators can then use results from these informal assessments to address knowledge gaps in ways that are more representative of what they might face on high-stakes exams.

3. Focus on “Academic English”

Many ELL students, especially those who have been in the school system for some time, seem fluent if you simply watch them talking with classmates. However, sit them down with a reading passage or ask them to write, and they struggle. This indicates a lack of academic English proficiency. Academic English is more formal and descriptive than conversational speech, and it’s key to success in the classroom and in the workplace.

Make sure that you integrate opportunities into all of your lessons to help ELLs become familiar with this kind of language, and put a particular emphasis on doing so during test prep efforts. Online programs can be great tools to increase your ELLs’ exposure to academic language, while building literacy skills.

4. Help ELLs Understand the Importance of Testing

Many other countries don’t put nearly the same emphasis on testing as we do in the United States. As a result, some of your ELLs may simply be confused by the premise, or not understand what all the fuss is about. While you certainly don’t want to scare them, it is important to explain what high-stakes state tests are, what they are used for, and why they’re important. This background knowledge can go a long way in motivating your ELLs to put forth their best efforts as they prepare for when testing day rolls around.

5. Make the Most of Your Technology

Online practice programs like Edmentum’s Study Island can be a great tool to help your ELL students practice the actual skills and concepts they will see on high-stakes assessments. They can also provide you with valuable, real-time data to pinpoint knowledge gaps and offer targeted instruction, even if your learners are working at widely varying levels. By leveraging technology effectively, educators can maximize ELL students' exposure to test-related skills and concepts, ultimately enhancing their confidence and performance on high-stakes assessments. Make sure that you’re familiar with the various functionalities, content, and reports available through your online learning programs—you can save yourself a lot of time and administrative work.

6. Familiarize Students With Testing Environments

Minimizing all the factors that can distract ELL students from demonstrating their content knowledge on testing day is key. The testing environment itself is one of the primary sources of these distractions, especially given that so many states now administer tests online. Make sure that your ELL students are comfortable using the kind of device they will be tested on and know how to navigate online assessments. It’s also important that they have been exposed to the different item types they will see on assessments and go into test day understanding what different kinds of questions are being asked of them.

7. Take Advantage of Available Accommodations

Every state has different guidelines regarding the accommodations they will offer to students for a wide variety of reasons. Many ELLs are eligible to take advantage of these, whether it’s simply an extended testing period, use of a dictionary, or even the option to test in their native language. Look into what the guidelines are in your state or district, and work with district administrators or testing coordinators to make sure your ELLs are granted all accommodations that they’re eligible for—it can make a huge difference, both in minimizing students’ stress, and creating better outcomes.

Looking for more tips to help your ELLs achieve success? Check out these classroom tips to support ELLs.

Why is Math Important?

Everyone can (and should) experience success in math, as it is directly correlated to future success. Research shows that success in math provides students with college and career options, increases prospects for future income and improves social and economic outcomes later in life. It’s important that we build classroom cultures where math success is seen as meaningful to students at whatever level of success they can achieve.

Create an Environment that Engages Students for Math Success

One way to create an engaging environment in math is through gaining a better understanding around what is important and relevant to students. Looking for a mathematical component within student relevant topics can capture attention and enable a positive approach to the subject. By using a real-world example, something meaningful to a learner, students can problem-solve, discuss their ideas with peers, and explain their reasoning—all skills that contribute to standards-aligned content knowledge and success.

Edmentum's’ Exact Path product holds a Digital Promise stamp of approval. Digital Promise is a global nonprofit working to expand opportunities for each learner. As part of their work, they have looked at extensive research in the field of learning and say the following about real-world math.

“When teachers connect math to the students' world, students see how math is relevant and applicable to their daily lives. These real-world connections are also great ways to integrate math with other disciplines to create cross-curricular connections, supporting Motivation by helping students see the relevance of all they are studying. For this strategy to be most effective, is it important to think about the relevance of the real-world context to the students' individual and cultural contexts so that the connections are truly 'real-world' for the students.”

Mathematical Practices in the Classroom

While practice in math is essential, instructional approaches around timed memorization of math facts is only one approach, and potentially does not create meaning and engagement leading to real understandings of real-life math application on its own.

For years, researchers have highlighted an instructional approach that encourages students to use numerical reasoning to solve real problems, mirroring the way they’ll encounter the use of math as adults. Numerical reasoning, or the processing of numerical patterns logically and easily, can support student success when it comes to understanding charts, trends and relationships, and can set students up for success in the professional world. Using real-world math in conjunction with numerical reasoning can create a meaningful context for math that can support student engagement and retention.

Diversifying instructional practices using research-based strategies is key when it comes to teaching math. Present students with opportunities to practice rich problem-solving and open-ended tasks with resources such as Open Middle, a website full of math problems that generally require a higher depth of knowledge than most problems that assess procedural and conceptual understanding. Allow students to create their own visual representations of a math problem, another high impact strategy.

“Students activate more cognitive processes by exploring and representing their understandings in visual form. Visual representations allow learners to exhibit what they know and can do in alternative ways that can support Working Memory during problem solving and retention of information in Long-term Memory. In particular, research has shown that creating their own diagrams of problems helps late elementary and middle school students develop the skills necessary for understanding and using diagrams successfully to support problem-solving.” Digital Promise

Utilizing a wider range of strategies within classroom math shows students there’s more to their equations than a final answer. In fact, sometimes there is more than one right answer and more than one acceptable method. Tackling these richer, real-world problems can be tougher than solving equations on a worksheet, but it will encourage your students to push themselves and view their mathematical skills in a new light.

Moving Math Beyond Memorization

Often, mathematical assessments encourage being fast at recalling memorized facts (think timed multiplication tests or rapid response problem solving challenges). For multiple-choice standardized tests, students who excel at test taking are those rewarded. Assessments with answers that are either right or wrong only recognize accuracy.

As math educators, it’s important to incorporate assessment and recognition. Using different strategies for achieving the same answer, however, can help create greater opportunity for engagement and learning to happen. By expanding our approaches toward math, the classroom provides a great environment to teach concepts like wrong answers should be viewed as learning opportunities. This perspective can encourage intellectual risk taking. Consider using “happy mistakes” to create a class discussion around how the error occurred, instead of labelling it as incorrect immediately. Error analysis is another strong learning strategy supported by research.

“Analyzing incorrect worked examples is especially beneficial for helping students develop a conceptual understanding of mathematical processes. Studying their own errors can also help students see when they have chosen incorrect strategies, improving their procedural knowledge. More importantly, error analysis can also help students identify their misconceptions and support them in correcting their understandings.” Digital Promise

Flipping the narrative around math in the classroom may not always be the simplest task for teachers, but building a solid foundation of math skills is critical to success in the classroom. Remember there’s no such thing as a being born with a “math brain," as brains are constantly shaping, changing, developing, and connecting — everyone can succeed in math.

Close the math achievement gap in your school with these recommendations.

Here are five tips on how to squeeze the most out of summer.

Data Is Your Best Friend

To develop an efficient summer school program, gather as much data as possible about the students. You can uncover existing learning gaps and target the skills needed for them to move on rather than cover topics that are unnecessary or too advanced. Check out this article to learn more about how you can use spring data to plan for summer success.

Follow a Strict Routine During Efficient Summer School

Spontaneity is for those with time. A student wondering what they are supposed to be doing is not making progress. Set up a hard-and-fast routine early in the summer period and hold to it so you can avoid confusion, ambiguity, and wasted time.

Here’s one example of one week of primarily asynchronous virtual summer school:

Review Efficient Summer School Class Management Tactics

The condensed summer school schedule magnifies any disruption, including any time class is disrupted by misbehavior, technical issues, or other unscheduled events. To help minimize lost time and foster an efficient summer school program, review class policies and procedures with your students and set expectations.

Here are a few fun read-alouds to kick off the conversation (yes, they are elementary level, but they should do the trick for any age group) and a couple of our favorite educator classroom management strategies.

Invest in Technology for an Efficient Summer School

Over the past few years, educators have seen the impact that digital curriculum can have as a core curricular resource. With flexibility, instant feedback, and robust reports, digital curriculum can offer students the same quality of content while simplifying administrative tasks for teachers and making the switch from brick to click easier than ever.

This can free up the instructor to offer one-on-one help and deliver lessons that help the class. Learn more about how Edmentum can help supercharge summer learning.

Create More Time

The best way to maximize learning time with summer school programs is to create more of it. That means making tools available for students to further their progress at home or on the go. Encourage your students to use organizers or planners to stay on top of their daily tasks and weekly assignments. Efficiency often follows.

Looking for more ways to increase productivity in your classroom? Check out these tips on optimizing student performance through the science of timing.

Fundamental Principles for Student Success in Algebra

To continue closing the achievement gap in math and focus on learning recovery, schools would be wise to ensure their mathematical practices include the following fundamental principles:

• High quality instructional materials
• Teacher training and support
• Frequent progress monitoring
• Daily instruction and targeted interventions
• Caregiver support

Let’s take a closer look at each of these principles.

High Quality Instructional Materials

Adopting high quality instructional materials is the first step toward academic recovery and student success in a classroom setting. According to ExcelinEd’s policy toolkit, math instruction must include the study of traditional arithmetic to begin rebuilding students’ test scores. Using a program like Exact Path, Edmentum’s K–12 diagnostic-driven, direct-instruction program, will help students develop deep conceptual understanding, computational fluency, and systematic problem-solving skills. Exact Path weaves algebraic reasoning throughout all grade levels within the program and focuses on the most critical topics in preparing students for Algebra: conceptual understanding, computational fluency, problem-solving skills, operations, and properties. Investing in and adopting high-quality materials like Exact Path gives teachers access to quality content, practice, and assessment, significantly reducing the need for teachers to search for or create their own materials.

Teacher Training and Support

The second fundamental principle ExcelinEd highlights is the need for teacher training. Educators need to be outfitted with effective strategies and supports — including how to incorporate research-based instructional practices in their teaching, the best ways to use manipulatives, and strategies and ideas for building their students’ foundational and critical-thinking skills—through professional development and teacher education opportunities.

The relationship between teachers’ mathematical knowledge and students’ achievement confirms the importance of content knowledge among educators. Bridging the mathematical achievement gap starts with providing teachers with the tools they need to succeed in helping their students.

Frequent Progress Monitoring

Bridging the mathematical achievement gap starts with providing teachers with the tools they need to succeed in helping their students. Focusing on research in the science of math education, incorporating strategies for differentiated instruction and the integration of technology in the classroom and ensuring access to high-quality resources and ongoing support can empower teachers to address diverse learning needs among students.

Daily Instruction and Targeted Interventions

By frequently monitoring students, educators have a better sense of students’ strengths and areas where support is needed – allowing them to plan instruction accordingly to meet each student’s individual needs. In addition to the recommended daily core instruction of 60 minutes per day, ExcelinEd recommends providing additional time before, during, and after school, as well as in summer, for targeted intervention and high-impact, evidence-based tutoring. This encourages continuous progress with on-grade- level content during core instruction time along with acceleration and remediation opportunities.

Caregiver Support

The final piece to the student mathematical success puzzle starts at home with families and caregivers. Most children acquire considerable knowledge of numbers and other aspects of mathematics before they enter kindergarten. As students advance through elementary school, caregiver involvement tends to dwindle. But it remains important for caregivers to continue to find small ways to practice math at home because exposure, practice, and real-world applications improve math skills. Educators can focus on keeping communication lines open with caregivers and can send home programs and strategies to support families outside of the classroom.

We can begin reversing the achievement gap in math by continuing to implement research-backed practices that make learning mathematics not only possible but straightforward for all students.

Looking for ways to begin implementing a stronger math-positive culture in your classroom? Learn how to flip the math narrative with our article, Making Math Matter in the Classroom.

While summer school is certainly not novel, summer school planning does beg the question—is it enough to offer the summer school options we traditionally have? The Ohio Department of Education Extended Learning FAQ offers a simple answer that will apply to many: “[Summer plans] should be driven by student needs; therefore, consideration should be given to doing more than the status quo in cases where the needs of students are beyond what is typical.”

With that in mind, we curated these learning recommendations that highlight six critical planning decisions for summer.

1. Impacted Students: How will schools and districts identify which students have been most impacted by the pandemic, with a focus on the most vulnerable populations?

Research is already showing greater learning-loss impacts for specific populations that can provide a good leading indicator of where you might find the highest needs with your school or district. Nearly 20 percent fewer kindergarteners were on track to learn how to read than their peers were at that time last year—a theme largely reported by others as well. In addition to significant gaps in the early elementary years, gaps across the board are especially pronounced for Black and Hispanic students. 

Data from 43 states shows that after years of academic interventions, more young students are reading on track than at any time since the pandemic began. The new data also show that Black and Hispanic students in many grades are improving faster than average, shrinking the academic gaps that had widened during school disruptions, however this is still an important focus this summer.

2. Needs Assessment: How will schools and districts identify, unpack, and target the nuanced needs of impacted students?

According to a study published by Nature Human Behavior featured in the New York Times, students lost 1/3 of a school year of learning to the pandemic, with learning dealys and regressions being the most severe among children from low-income backgrounds. We know the story of learning loss will be different for every student. This is where administering high-quality assessments to accurately diagnose students’ strengths, needs, and specific learning progress is essential. Begin each academic period with a proven diagnostic to inform your instruction and deliver personalized learning experiences for all.

3. Resources & Budget: What resources are available to address those needs?

Approved federal coronavirus funding streams allow for additional cash flow into summer programming that goes beyond previous years. Specifically from the CARES Act, the Elementary and Second School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund, notes the following in allowable uses: “Planning and implementing activities related to summer learning and supplemental afterschool programs, including providing classroom instruction or online learning during the summer months and addressing the needs of low-income students, students with disabilities, English learners, migrant students, students experiencing homelessness, and children in foster care.” Determine if your district has access to funds to set up an effective program.

Additionally, procuring teachers to lead summer school may be a difficult mountain to climb this year. With teacher unions and generally burned-out educators to contend with, some states are looking at community programs to help provide additional support.

4. Approaches & Instruction: What approaches can best be deployed to address those needs?

This past school year has challenged educators at all levels to get creative, leading with innovative approaches that employ technology to overcome physical distancing. With all the lessons learned, there’s much to take forward into your summer acceleration and enrichment programming. Whether your district decides to launch a full in-school option with busing and meals provided (as North Carolina recently approved) or you simply want to take the online learning programs you have today and encourage independent use over the summer, the myriad of options is extensive. Perhaps this summer would be best served by a mixed bag to attack different needs and family preferences.

5. Partnerships: Which partners can schools and districts engage with in supporting student needs?

Consider partnering with local and regional organizations, including libraries, museums, and after-school programs, in your community. These entities can often be well-versed in supporting K–12 students during the summer months. Other partners to prioritize include those that provide the educational programming you may already use or may be considering to use to augment your program’s reach and quality. In your search, consider how Edmentum combines proven programs and consulting to power your teaching practices.

6. Alignment: How can your summer-learning plan reinforce and align to other district and school programs?

In planning your summer programming, assessment and academic instruction grounded in understanding skill gaps and clawing back missed credits are likely the most obvious places to start. Additionally, make sure that these summer learning experiences connect back to other school programs and initiatives. Your plan should include attending to students’ personal and social development to support success of the whole learner. The pandemic put a microscope on the value of mental health and wellness education, making it no longer just a “nice to have” option, and every district in the nation would be remiss not to consider where this development will be integrated into the next school year’s learning. Personal and social development is just one example of an additional school program to consider, but others might include graduation plans, remote-learning plans, and tutoring.

Considering a combination of these six aspects to your summer-planning strategy will help ensure that you’re providing the highest-need students with a successful experience to address unfinished learning and setting up a more prosperous school year. Want to find out about how Edmentum can help support your summer planning? Check out our Summer Success & Planning Toolkit.

Develop a Consistent Daily Routine

In the tight schedule of a summer school environment, a student wondering what they are supposed to be doing is not making progress. Establish a hard-and-fast routine early in the summer period and stick to it so you can avoid confusion, ambiguity, and wasted time. Encourage your students to use organizers or planners so they can stay on top of their day-to-day tasks and weekly assignments.

Kick Things Off With Formative Assessment 

Formative assessment is a powerful tool for gauging students' understanding and identifying areas where they may need additional support. By conducting formative assessments at the beginning of summer school, you can gain valuable insights into your students' prior knowledge, skills, and misconceptions. This information allows you to tailor your instruction to meet the specific needs of your students and differentiate learning experiences accordingly.

Consider using a variety of formative assessment strategies, such as pre-assessments, entrance tickets, or diagnostic quizzes, to gather data on students' strengths and weaknesses in key content areas. Analyze the results of these assessments to identify common patterns or areas of struggle among your students, and use this information to inform your lesson planning and instructional decisions. These tips to improve student achievement with formative assessment at any grade can provide more ideas and information.

Plan Community Connection Time

Take time to nurture your classroom community. Even if you and your summer students will only be together a few weeks, building a strong sense of community and connection in your classroom is well worth the effort and enables students to comfortably enter academic learning. Looking for ideas to get started? Consider implementing icebreaker activities, team-building exercises, and collaborative projects that encourage students to interact with one another and establish meaningful relationships. Providing opportunities for students to share their experiences, interests, and goals can also help create a sense of belonging and camaraderie within the classroom.

Don't Forget About Fun

Many students are less than thrilled to be spending their summer vacation in the classroom, so make sure to keep them excited and motivated throughout the program. Set goals and celebrate when your students achieve them. Plan fun activities for students during the day or once per week to avoid burnout in the classroom. After all, it is still the summer break for your students.

Utilize the Science of Timing

Have you ever noticed that, during certain times of the day, your classroom is buzzing, students are working diligently, and everyone is getting along, while during other times of the day, things are a bit chaotic, and you find yourself having to constantly correct behavior and refocus attention? Turns out, there are scientific reasons behind why this happens. Check out these tips to optimize student performance in your summer session through the science of timing.

For more ideas on how to boost summer school engagement, check out this article for 5 ways to keep students on track during summer sessions.