have you got the time?

We had a testing pep rally today for the kids.

We got loud and just a little bit wild.  There was loud music and pom poms. We came in the multi-purpose room stomping and clapping to We Will Rock You. Then we watched this fun video.

One of our state senators spoke to the kids and encouraged them to do their best on the test next week. 

At least, I'm guessing that's what she said, because I was back stage getting ready for a rousing game of What's That Strategy? to review test taking strategies. It was pretty hilarious. Our computer specialist was the host of the show. She was dressed in hot pink, wearing a hot pink wig, with hot pink lips painted waaaay outside her actual lip lines. All this plus a Julia Child soprano stage voice! 

Each teacher dressed up as a certain strategy and one by one stood behind a scrim. From our silhouette and some clues, the contestants were supposed to name the strategy. 

My strategy was be on time and take your time. So I made a special clock showing the times the students should be at school.  In a nod to Mrs. Frizzle, I sported a few extra clocks.

I think maybe I needed more clocks.

And a navy blue dress.

The fact that I represented a strategy having to do with time is quite hilarious. I am a.l.w.a.y.s running late. Friends and family alike are always just a little shocked when we turn up on time to a function, not to mention a little early. Hey, it's been known to happen a time or two.

Also, I have pitiful time management.

This particular personality trait kills my husband because Mr. FedEx is all about time.

My fancy pants clock was double-sided with the second part of the strategy.

Our testing is next week. I am more than ready for it to be over! I have to admit, I'm feeling a little worried & I hope they do well on this test. I crossing my fingers that they wow me with what they can do because for the past week or so I have been less than impressed. I'm hoping their brains are just taking a little siesta before the big test. That has to be the explanation for their performance this past week!

In my room, I've tried to strike the right balance between helping them be prepared for the test, while not making it be our entire focus. I don't want them to be so wound tight about it that their anxiety disables them. On the other hand, they need to sense the urgency of the high stakes testing and do their very best.

Cross your fingers and wish us luck!