Ah yes… it’s that time of year. The halls get quieter, the pencils get sharper (literally), and suddenly everyone is whispering like we’re in a library from 1992. State testing season has arrived.
And while the spotlight is often on teachers and students, let me let you in on a little secret: the front office is the behind-the-scenes production crew making sure the whole show runs smoothly.
Because when testing goes sideways? Oh, we all feel it.
So here’s how the front office can step up and support like the MVPs we are:
🔌 Devices: Charged, Counted, and Ready to Go
Nothing derails a testing session faster than a dead device. It’s the modern-day version of “the dog ate my homework.”
Front office tip:
- Do a pre-testing device check the day before
- Coordinate with tech staff (or become the tech staff—we’ve all been there)
- Have a few extra devices charged and ready for emergencies
Think of it as your “just in case” stash—the one that saves the day at least three times.
✏️ The Pencil Situation Is Real
You would think by now pencils would not be a crisis, and yet… here we are.
Front office tip:
- Sharpen pencils before testing days begin
- Keep a stash of extras and scrap paper ready to distribute quickly
- Avoid sending teachers on last-minute scavenger hunts
Nothing says “calm testing environment” like not having to track down a pencil five minutes before start time.
🔕 Silence Is Golden (Seriously, Check Those Bells)
There is no sound more disruptive during testing than an unexpected bell ringing like it’s announcing a fire drill.
Front office tip:
- Disable or adjust bell schedules ahead of time
- Double-check automated systems (because technology loves surprises)
- Communicate clearly with staff about any schedule changes
If you’ve ever seen 25 students jump at once, you know why this matters.
🚶♀️ Hallway Coverage = Teacher Support
Testing teachers are in full focus mode. The last thing they need is managing hallway interruptions.
Front office tip:
- Create a coverage schedule for hallways
- Rotate office staff or support personnel
- Be visible and proactive—this alone reduces disruptions
Your presence says, “We’ve got this—stay focused on your students.”
💬 Communication Is Everything
Testing days are not the time for confusion.
Front office tip:
- Send clear reminders to staff
- Post schedules where everyone can see them
- Be the calm, consistent point of contact
When the office is organized, the whole building feels it.
Final Reflection: Supporting Student Success
State testing may not be glamorous, but it is a team effort—and the front office plays a bigger role than most people realize.
We’re the quiet coordinators, the problem-solvers, the ones making sure the copier works, the bells don’t ring, and yes… that there are actually pencils.
So if you’re in the front office this testing season, just know:
You are absolutely part of student success—even if you never step into the testing room.
Now go sharpen those pencils.