Today, we began six days of Terra Nova standardized testing. I must say it is not one of my favorite times of the year. Some students are anxious, some work very diligently, and others finish quicker than Usain Bolt in the world championships.

We test in the morning, and shorten classes for the rest of the day. I feel like a gerbil on a wheel – spinning, spinning all day. I wrote a quick poem to release some pent-up thoughts.

It’s standardized testing time of year.
The groans & moans are what we hear.
Not just from the students – no, it’s more.
Teachers, too, want to run out the door.

Number two pencils – a good night’s sleep,
That’s how good scores a student will reap.
Six mornings of testing, what a drag!
Some students soar while others will lag.

So many times I read the same words.
Reading directions is for the birds.
Five more days till this testing will end
Off to be graded, these tests we’ll send.

When six days are over, I will cheer.
This is my very last testing year!
No more directions for me to read.
Retirement is just what I need!