1.  The number one problem that in the past prevented students from increasing their standardized test scores was fitting in time to study.  Between being in school all day, homework, sports, job, family, friends…it’s tough to fit everything in.  With everything shut down now, however, students finally have the time they need to learn the skills that will help them score great on the test.

2.  In general, routine is good for teenagers emotionally.  Working through a test prep program can give them structure, clear goals, and something to feel good about as they see themselves making progress every day.

3.  Relatedly, many students are not getting the challenge they once were from their school work.  This can leave them feeling a bit adrift, or lacking meaningful projects to work on.  Having an area to focus on academically can help keep their skills sharp.  While some of test prep is certainly “teaching to the test”, we also teach students skills that they will use the rest of their lives.

4.  Last but not least, a lot of students feel pressure around these tests.  They feel pressure because they can’t fit in studying, or because they think it will determine their future, or because they see peers scoring well and feel like they have to as well.  This is an opportunity that probably no other cohort of students has had or will have again – the opportunity to study, improve scores, and take the pressure off.  Even if they don’t have a specific test date in mind, building skills now will make the test so much easier when it is time.

We still have weeks of being at home – now is the time to start taking advantage.