Today was the first day of exams. The students met for morning assembly and Mr. January gave a pep talk of sorts just prior to sending them off to write their exams. Mr. January had to pick the exams up this morning and bring them to the school. The heads of the departments then had to come in and count out all of the exams and then distribute them to the teachers (sound familiar?). In Ashley and Mary's 4th grade class one little boy was vomiting this morning. He said he felt fine. We suspected that he was nervous. Mr. January was not worried about how the learners would do on the exams, but he was worried about getting the exams marked (graded) and turned in on time so that they can be verified by the proper officials. I empathize with him...for his kids, these exam scores will determine their futures. As I write this, I just realized that I am starting to feel as if they are our kids. Mr. January and the teachers have really made us feel like a part of the school. At morning assembly, he told the students that we were here to help them. I am not sure if we will ever be able to express how much they are helping us. These young people have an inner strength that is inspiring.
Wow, this does sound really familiar. Testing can be a great beast! Sounds like you guys are helping decerease the stress associated with high stakes testing somewhat. Keep up the work.
ReplyDeleteTSnipes
I'm not sure if we are helping to decrease stress, but we are certainly helping the teachers grade exams!
ReplyDeleteWhat a phenomenal experience for your students. Regardless of location, education is/holds the promise.
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