In public education, March 13, 2020, is often referred to as “the day the world shut down.” Schools all over the country closed due to Covid-19, and with little notice, educators were forced to reinvent school as we know it. In the wake of the shutdown and the worries associated with a global pandemic, state testing was cancelled in 2020 to the relief of teachers and students.
After the strangest year on the books, foregoing KPREP once again in 2021 was proposed but rejected as lawmakers insisted schools assess the damage and measure exactly how big the learning gaps are for students. This wasn’t the news staff at Adairville School had hoped for; despite that, they embraced the old adage, “When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade!”
Releasing Stress over State Tests
In a normal school year, state testing can be stressful enough--students and teachers strongly desire the results to reflect how much was learned. However, in a year as unpredictable and inconsistent as 2021, state testing may seem a little unfair--students and teachers know all the obstacles to learning that have been present this year may impact what students can do. It’s a life “lemon” of epic proportions. So as a fun and lighthearted approach to taking KPREP, students and staff at Adairville school plan to have a “Lemonade Day” on Thursday, May 13.
Students in testing grades will gather on the front lawn of the school and release small yellow balloons that look like lemons into the air. This fun activity will symbolize the releasing of their stress over the state tests.
“It’s been a tough year for everyone, but at Adairville School, we try to focus on the positive,” says Principal Lori Bouldin. “We are grateful that KPREP has been greatly reduced in length this year, and our kiddos will bring their best as always--no worries!”
Adairville’s expectations for each day, regardless of the situation or task, are always: 1. Bring Your Best, 2. Do the Right Thing, and 3. Be Kind. These are the right ingredients for making “lemonade.”
Making Sure it’s a Sweet Week
With the help of FRYSC, students will enjoy all kinds of lemon treats the day before state testing begins. A lemonade stand will be set up in the hallway; lemon muffins and candies will be served throughout the day; and students will dress in yellow to represent their positive attitude.
“We have all kinds of decorations and treats to remind kids that when life gets tough, you can choose to be sour about it or to be sweet. At Adairville, we choose sweet!” says FRYSC Director Danielle Violette.
In addition, state testing week will be designated “Student Appreciation Week” at Adairville School. Teachers and staff will encourage students with snacks, banners, and notes of well-wishes.
KPREP testing will be completely online this year, which is an appropriate change considering the amount of online learning students have done during this pandemic. Change is something Adairville students are taught to approach not with bitterness, but with sweet expectation and positivity-- a lesson we could all stand to learn in our ever-changing world.