Students attending schools within Fillmore Unified School District will be participating in the annual State tests from April 20 through May 11. Parents and guardians play an important role in the education of their children. It is highly encouraged that parents talk with their children about the importance of doing their best on the testing just as they would on all their school work. Encouraging your child to keep a positive attitude will reduce the stress toward test taking. Discuss with your child that tests should not cause undue stress, to think carefully, and complete one question at a time without rushing.

Students should also get plenty of rest and eat a healthy breakfast each day to help them perform optimally. Be sure that you are aware of the testing dates for each of your child’s schools and communicate this with your child. It is best not to plan late night activities, games, or appointments during the testing window if at all possible.

You can also get involved in preparing your child for testing by sharing and reinforcing a few key test taking strategies.

• Listen carefully to instructions and ask questions if you don’t understand.
• Don’t rush but do pace yourself ensuring not to spend too much time on any one question.
• Read ALL the answers before choosing your response
• Don’t panic over questions you don’t know. Notate difficult ones and come back at the end if there is time.
• Answer all questions and then go back and check your answers if time allows.

Your encouragement will go a long way in supporting and building confidence in your child which will lead to success.