By Eason Franklin
The Lowndes Signal

Spring break is that time during the school year where school children get the opportunity to take a break from homework and relax.

Some kids and parents are using that vacation time to prepare for upcoming standardized tests.

Students of Jackson-Steele Elementary attended the Do Your Best on the Test pep rally last Friday to “get pumped” for their Standard Achievement and Alabama Reading and Math tests.

Teachers went over test-taking tips with students to help on testing, according to fourth-grade teacher Breeon Fayson.

“We are working to get the students excited about the tests,” said Fayson. “This is an opportunity for all students to improve.”

The assessments will test the student’s reading comprehension, math and science skills.

Parents are encouraged to motivate their children to get enough sleep, eat a healthy breakfast, get to school on time, follow directions and read questions carefully and check their answers..

The walls of the school are covered with motivational banners and pledge sheets signed by students who are taking extra steps over spring break to guarantee their good grades.

“We’re trying to get children motivated and excited to take their standardized tests,” said principal Kimberly Washington.

Each child was sent home with Spring Break packets containing informational guides regarding the SAT10 and ARMT assessments to be studied with parents.

“All of our teachers have been drilling the children to help them prepare for the exams,” said instructional assistant Tara Green. “We want to ensure that the students have the necessary material to help them prepare for the tests.”

Testing for the students begins the week of Mar. 24 and continues through Apr. 2.