This year, District 123’s focus is for 100% of students to meet or exceed their MAP projected scores, and Sward is ready to rise to the challenge!
Sward students were prepped and ready to take on the NWEA MAP test! Over the past week, students set personal goals and discussed strategies to help them reach those goals. This preparation helps students take ownership of their learning and feel confident heading into testing. Teachers and staff created inviting classroom environments, complete with brain breaks and supports, to help students stay focused and feel their best throughout testing.
In addition, students have been practicing positive affirmations. A powerful habit that boosts confidence and contributes to their success.
Positive affirmations can play a powerful role in helping elementary students feel calm, confident, and ready to do their best on a test. Here’s why they matter:
1. Build Confidence
Affirmations like “I am prepared,” “I am a hard worker,” or “I can do hard things” remind students of their abilities and effort. This helps shift their focus away from fear of failure and toward belief in themselves.
2. Reduce Anxiety
Testing can be stressful, even for young children. Positive self-talk activates a calmer mindset, helping reduce test-related nerves. Students who feel relaxed are more likely to recall information and think clearly.
3. Encourage a Growth Mindset
Affirmations emphasize effort and progress rather than perfection. When children repeat phrases like “I can learn from my mistakes” or “I get better every day,” they begin to see challenges as opportunities to grow.
4. Promote Emotional Regulation
Taking a few moments to say affirmations allows students to pause, breathe, and reset their emotions before beginning a test.
5. Foster a Positive Classroom Culture
When affirmations are done as a class routine, students see that everyone is working toward success together. This can build a sense of community and mutual encouragement.
Kid-Friendly Test Day Affirmations
“I am ready to do my best.”
“I am smart, I am capable, I am prepared.”
“I can do hard things.”
“Mistakes help me learn and grow.”
“I believe in myself.”
“I stay calm, I stay focused.”
“I am proud of how hard I’ve worked.”
“One question at a time, I can do this.”
“I am stronger than my worries.”
“My best effort is enough.”
Good luck, Sward Eagles and keep up the positivity!
