Maintaining Your Sanity During Testing Season

Testing season doesn't have to be stressful

It's mid-April, and for most teachers, that means one thing: testing season is in full swing. The weeks leading up to high-stakes state assessments can feel like a whirlwind - juggling intense test prep, unpredictable schedules, continued instruction, and end-of-year events. It’s a recipe for overwhelm if you're not careful.

But here’s the good news: you can get through testing season with your sanity intact. Here are five tried-and-true strategies to help you stay grounded, focused, and even a little joyful during this high-pressure time.

1. Break Test Prep Into Bite-Sized Pieces

In a perfect world, we'd all be spiral reviewing all year long. But let’s be real - pacing guides, new content, and life often take over. The key now is to integrate test review into your routine in manageable chunks. Try weaving in 10–15 minutes of focused review a few times a week. Math teachers might do “Wordy Wednesday” for multi-step problems or “Throwback Thursday” to revisit prior skills. A little each day goes a long way.

2. Connect With Colleagues for Fresh Ideas

You don’t have to do this alone. Take a few minutes to chat with your teammates about their review strategies; it’s a great way to discover new approaches and feel supported. Not comfortable initiating the convo? Tap into online teacher communities; there are thousands of educators sharing creative review activities, calming routines, and morale-boosting tips.

3. Prioritize Healthy Habits

We know it’s tempting to fuel up on Diet Coke and gummy bears, but your body (and mind) deserve better. Keep a water bottle nearby, prep some nutritious snacks, and try to squeeze in movement—even a quick walk at lunch or during your prep period can work wonders. When you nourish yourself, you’re better equipped to handle stress and stay energized for your students.

4. Keep the Classroom Vibe Uplifting

Your students are looking to you for cues. If you're radiating stress, they’ll absorb it. But if you stay calm and positive, they'll follow your lead. Celebrate how far they’ve come this year. Sprinkle in daily affirmations, post positive notes around the classroom, or let students write encouraging sticky notes for each other. A little positivity can shift the entire energy of your space.

5. Trust the Work You’ve Done

At the end of the day, remind yourself of this: you’ve done the work. You’ve shown up, taught your heart out, and poured into your students. That’s what matters most. Their test scores don’t define you—or them. Breathe deeply, let go of what’s out of your control, and walk into testing season with confidence in what you’ve built.

You Don’t Have to Navigate End of Year Assessment Season Alone

Teaching during testing season is no small feat, and you don’t have to carry the mental and emotional load by yourself. If you're ready for support, encouragement, and personalized strategies to help you thrive (not just survive) this season, teacher coaching might be the game-changer you need.

Let’s work together to help you feel calm, confident, and in control. Click here to learn more about teacher coaching and take the first step toward a more supported you.

You’ve got this—and I’ve got you.