April 21, 2023
LANCASTER, Texas -- The atmosphere in the Lancaster High School coliseum was electric as more than 1,200 third, fourth, and fifth-grade students from Lancaster ISD gathered for the STAAR pep rally. The event was the perfect way to kick off the STAAR testing season and motivate the students to perform their best.
"It's always been a dream of mine to bring the elementary school campuses together for a big pep rally," said Belt Line Elementary Principal and pep rally organizer Ta-Tanisha Stevenson. "It's important for the students to see just how much support they have behind them as they prepare for the STAAR. In addition, they can see their principals, teachers, district leaders, and community members rooting for them."
The pep rally featured student performances from all elementary campuses, the LHS Varsity Cheerleading team, the LHS Tiger Marching Band, music, games, and encouragement from teachers, principals, student organizations, district administrators, and the XFL Arlington Renegades in-game host, James Harris.
The pep rally was energetic and exciting, with students and faculty cheering and dancing to music. With the support of their teachers and classmates, students will build confidence ahead of the STAAR. In addition, the pep rally provided a place for students to share their enthusiasm about the exam and inspire their peers to perform their best.
Pleasant Run Elementary fourth-grader Rain Robinson says she's ready for the STAAR after attending the pep rally and seeing her classmates perform their step routine.
"After seeing all of the students performing and being a part of the crowd, I'm ready to reach masters level on my STAAR tests," said Robinson. "I'm feeling confident and know I will do great."
Journey Pipkins, a fourth-grader from Rolling Hills Elementary, shared similar sentiments.
"I feel more excited about taking the STAAR, and I'm ready to get it done," said Pipkins. "I already have a strategy for when I begin the test: stay focused, think encouraging thoughts, and avoid thinking anything negative."
The STAAR pep rally is a way to unite all Lancaster ISD elementary students who have prepared for the STAAR test and get them energized, motivated, and confident about the exam.
"Hosting our STAAR pep rally is not just about motivating our students for a test; it's about instilling in them a sense of confidence and a belief in their ability to succeed," said Stevenson. "We want our students to know that we believe in them and are here to support them every step of the way."
To view additional pictures from the STAAR Pep Rally, click here or visit this link: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAAJhK
STAAR Test Day Tips for Students and Parents
Get plenty of rest
Eat a healthy breakfast
Encourage positive self-talk
Provide a quiet study space
Offer emotional support
District-Wide STAAR Testing Dates
April 25 | 9th – 12th grade(s) | EOC English 1 |
3rd – 8th grade(s) | STAAR Reading Test | |
April 26 | 10th – 12th grade(s) | EOC English 2 |
May 2 | 9th – 12th grade(s) | EOC Algebra 1 |
May 2 | 8th – 12th grade(s) | EOC U.S. History/ 8th Social Studies |
May 2 | 5th grade | 5th STAAR Science Test |
May 3 | 8th-12th | 8th STAAR Science, EOC Biology |
May 9 | 3rd – 8th grade(s) | STAAR Mathematics Test |
May 9 | 8th grade | EOC Algebra 1 |
