🌷IT’S OFFICIALLY SPRING TESTING TIME!🌷
Ohio’s State Testing: (OST) Grades 3-8
English Language Arts, Math, & Science: 5th and 8th grade only
End of Course Exams – High School
Students and Families: Interested in knowing more about practice testing, more dates, and resources to help your child succeed? Visit the official Student and Families page on the Ohio’s State Tests Website!
TIPS AND SUGGESTIONS TO PREPARE FOR TESTING!
Here are some suggestions for how you can help your child feel ready and confident; keep it simple, calm, and supportive.
Test Success = Rest. Fuel. Calm.
Take care of the basics:
- Make sure your child gets a good night’s sleep (no late nights if you can help it)
- Start the day with a solid breakfast (something with protein + water = better focus)
Keep mornings calm—no rushing or last-minute stress
- Lay out clothes and pack anything needed the night before
- Keep the vibe low-stress and positive:
Don’t hype the test up too much—it can make kids nervous
- Remind them: this is just a chance to show what they know – and they are NOT expected to know everything
- Focus on effort, not scores
- Let them know you’re proud of them no matter what
Give them words they can use to stay calm and confident:
- “I’ve got this. I can figure it out.”
- “I can take my time and think.”
- “It’s okay if it’s hard—I’ll just try my best.”
- “One question at a time.”
If they feel nervous (totally normal):
- Say: “It’s okay to feel nervous—that just means you care.”
- Take a few deep breaths together
- Remind them they are ready and capable
At the end of the day, having a consistent routine and calm energy is everything. When you stay relaxed and encouraging, your child will feel it too—and walk into that test feeling stronger and more confident. Sleep well, eat well, start steady!
