In Ohio, we have the OAA (Ohio Achievement Assessment), a state-wide measure for students in grades 3-8. In addition to organizing the tests, I often have a small group or an individual testing in my office. My students typically have accommodations, such as extended time, questions read aloud, or a scribe. In some cases, they also have behavior concerns as well.

This year, we started a mentorship program where staff members are matched with their OAA small group/individual and take time to develop a positive relationship with their students. Taking an OAA can be stressful. We want students to be as comfortable as possible when they work on their assessments, so a positive relationship with their test administrator can be extremely beneficial.

I created a weekly note template that I am using to write a message to my student. I also include puzzles and other treats that I know my student will enjoy.

This week, my school is celebrating Dr. Seuss. All week on the morning announcements, students are listening to a "mystery reader" (a staff member at our school) reading a small portion of a Dr. Seuss story. Students vote and win small prizes for guessing correctly. Also, classes can sign up to read in our lobby as a special treat. On Friday, students get a piece of birthday cake during lunch for Dr. Seuss's birthday and get a visit from the Cat in the Hat (our principal).

This year, I wanted to do something extra special. I decided to paint Seuss shirts for every day of the week to highlight important messages I want students to learn. I will update this blog post each day to highlight my new shirts.