Fresh off a massive victory to bring home the section title, the boys varsity basketball and cheerleading teams stopped by Thomas Jefferson Elementary School to get students motivated to work hard on the upcoming state exams.
The teams brought the energy Monday morning through the basketball players showing off some dunks and the cheerleaders leading students in performing “The Patriot Shimmy”. More importantly, the players spoke to students about what it takes to be great – on the court, in the classroom and life. They shared how some things are hard, but through working at them, being determined, and not giving up, students can overcome any obstacles. As they approach state exams in April and May, the students will bear down and be in their studies to succeed on the exams. Preparing for exams is never an easy task, but this reminder from the basketball players and cheerleaders, the students could have a little extra motivation.
One effort that helped motivate Jefferson students last year, and is returning this month, was the school’s version of “March Madness”. Students who show grit and hard work in state test preparations are awarded a paper cut-out basketball, which can be hung on the wall outside the cafeteria each week to exchange for a prize.
March Madness contributed to some impressive results. Jefferson students in grades three through five outperformed our peers across region by as much as 19 percent on last year’s ELA test and by as much as 16 percent on last year’s math test. Statewide, Jefferson students outperformed by as much as ten percent on last year’s ELA test and nine percent on the math exam.
“We noticed the kids were really locked in last year and the TJ staff couldn't have been prouder of the hard work that the kids put in,” noted Thomas Jefferson Elementary School Principal Richelle Acquisto. “We hope to see the same results again this year!”
