Now that it’s April, Westminster Public Schools students are getting ready to demonstrate what they have learned. The Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) testing season is officially here, and while testing can sometimes bring a few butterflies, there is absolutely no need to stress.

Whether you are a student preparing to take the test or you are a parent or guardian supporting them, here are a few practical tips to make this testing season a smooth and successful experience.

Tips for Students

Students, you are in the driver's seat! Here are some great strategies for having a fantastic testing week:

• Recharge Your Brain: Your brain needs to recharge to 100% so you can do your best thinking. Make sure you get 8 to 10 hours of sleep the night before your tests so you wake up feeling sharp, focused, and ready to go.
• Fuel Up for Success: You wouldn't drive a car on an empty tank, right? Eat a healthy, brain-boosting breakfast on testing mornings. Think protein and healthy carbs like eggs, whole-wheat toast, or oatmeal. Skip the giant bowls of sugary cereal so your energy doesn't fade halfway through the test.
• Take a Breather: If you start feeling stuck or overwhelmed by a tricky question, try the "Four Square" breathing trick. Breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, breathe out for 4 seconds, and hold for 4 seconds. It’s a great way to help you reset and refocus.
• Pace Yourself: This is not a race! Read every question carefully, take your time, and don't worry if your classmates finish before you do. If you have extra time at the end, use it to double-check your work.

Tips for Parents

Parents and guardians, you play a massive role in setting the tone for testing week. Here’s how you can help your WPS student shine:

• Keep Mornings Positive: Kids are incredibly good at picking up on our stress. Keep the mornings light, encouraging, and low-pressure. Try playing their favorite upbeat music in the car or on the walk to school and start the day on a happy note.
• Stick to the Routine: CMAS week is not the time to introduce a brand new morning schedule or a surprise, unfamiliar breakfast. Stick to what they know and love to keep them grounded and comfortable.
• Be a Cheerleader, Not a Coach: Remind your child that CMAS doesn't measure how funny, kind, or creative they are. Reassure them that this test is just one of many ways to show what they know. A simple, "Just do your best, and I'll be proud of you!" goes a long way.
• Plan a Post-Test Celebration: Give them something to look forward to when the week is over. It doesn't have to be big: a trip to a local Westminster park, a family movie night, or making their favorite dinner is a great way to celebrate their hard work and effort.