Principal Ponder Brings Positivity to Testing Season at McClure

At McClure Middle School, Principal Tammy Ponder is leading a refreshing and uplifting shift in how students, families, and educators approach testing season. Instead of focusing on stress and pressure, she’s inviting the entire school community to view testing as a celebration of growth, learning, and perseverance.
“Too often, testing is viewed as stressful or negative—but it doesn’t have to be,” Ponder shared in a recent message to families.

“Our students and teachers have worked incredibly hard all year long, and this is their moment to shine.”

To help set a positive tone, McClure is introducing a variety of fun and wellness-centered activities designed to support students emotionally and physically during testing days according to Principal Ponder:

“ Daily Testing Day Raffles: Homerooms with 100% attendance during testing will be entered into a raffle, and the winning class will receive a special treat.

Open Gym Time: Each morning before testing, students will have the chance to enjoy active play and social time to burn off nervous energy and start the day on a high note.

Wellness Time After Lunch: After the tests are over, students will take time to move, stretch, or simply relax, helping them reset and maintain balance throughout the day.”

But the celebration doesn’t stop inside the school walls. Principal Ponder is also encouraging family involvement in a colorful and heartfelt way. On Sunday evening at 6:30 PM, families are invited to chalk the sidewalks with positive messages and cheerful drawings that will greet students as they arrive Monday morning.

“We want them to be surrounded by encouraging words and bright colors that remind them how awesome they are,” Ponder said. “Let’s rewrite the story of testing together—one celebration, one message, and one proud student at a time.”

Whether it’s raffle drawings, gym time, wellness breaks, or sidewalk art, McClure Middle School is proving that testing season can be joyful, supportive, and even fun—especially when the entire community comes together.

This is a wonderful way to help students be comfortable with test taking and feel more relaxed when they enter the school doors!
Bravo Principal Ponder!