This post is part of Ruth Ayres Celebrate Link up. Thanks, Ruth for this great opportunity to celebrate.
A selfish celebration. It’s April and I’m not getting ready to proctor state testing I’m not covering bulletin boards reminding students that testing days are different than normal day and I won’t be able to help them there will be no collaboration no choice. I’m not whispering to kids that on testing days I will seem mean, strict, stressed but I will still love them. I don’t have a class. I’m not giving any speeches that “This test doesn’t measure your worth.” I’m not reminding any 12-year-olds of all the work they’ve done of how proud I am of their daily authentic true learning. I’m not in charge of any students I won’t be pacing my classroom sending a not-so-subtle message: “I used to trust you, but today I’m not allowed to.” I haven’t had to roll my closed eyes or take calming breaths while listening to reminders to cover posters collect scrap paper never open your computer put up privacy screens and a “testing in progress” sign. I have this testing season “off.” No proctoring for me. That doesn’t mean I can be quiet. To the teachers in the trenches: It will be okay. You have done so much. Thank you. To the students: It will be okay. You have learned so much. I’m sorry the state is wasting your time. To the state It. Is. Not. Okay. Please spend your money on something else Here are some ideas: books more teachers healthy food, clothing, shelter for those in need art supplies, instruments, fill in the blank Did I mention books? Next year, I’ll be back in the classroom. I’ll follow the rules. I always do. I’ll keep speaking out. I always will.
On a Thought 
I’ve always worked in an independent school, so have never had to endure the actions you just wrote about. Your end lines are beautiful. Good for you for cheering for the teachers and the students!
Love this celebration. I spent last week as a sub putting up bulletin boards and preparing teacher bags for testing. The week after break I’ll train with the teachers so that I’m available to sub and fill in. Not. a. fun. time. But I know many of the students, and hopefully I can make their time with a sub during testing a bit less painful.