Winging It Podcast: State Testing Q&A Panel Discussion

This week on Winging IT, we sit down with four PALCS leaders to answer all your questions about state testing. With the PSSAs and Keystones coming up, this episode is a must-listen for students and parents alike.

🎙️ Featuring:

• Dr. Michelle Efthimiadou, Supervisor of Special Education
• Bob Brown, Supervisor of State Testing
• Mike Logue, High School Principal
• Chris “Kit” Stiles, USP Principal

You’ll learn:
✔️ Why state testing is essential for students
✔️ How assessments help improve learning and support
✔️ What students can expect—and look forward to—on test days
✔️ How PALCS ensures accessibility and student success

🔗 Learn more: www.palcs.org
🎧 Tune in now and feel ready for testing season!
#PACyberCharterSchool #OnlineHighSchool #VirtualMiddleSchoolPA #PALCS #PAOnlineCharterSchool #K12OnlineLearningPA

 

Timestamps:

00:36 Question 1 - Why is it important for students to participate in state testing?

01:23 Question 2 - How do these assessments benefit both students and the school?

05:20 Question 3 - How would you explain the importance of participation?

06:49 Question 4 - What would you say to reassure parents about state testing?

10:41 Question 5 - What steps has the school taken to make testing accessible and convenient for cyber students?

15:28 Question 6 - What resources are available to help students prepare for the test? 

18:19 Question 7 - What kind of staff support is available on testing days?

19:05 Question 8 - When do students receive their scores?

19:48 Question 9 - How do student results help improve student learning and instruction?

25:00 Question 10 - What would you say to parents who are hesitant about state testing?

27:28 Question 11 - What advice do you have for students who are nervous about state testing? 

29:18 Question 12 - What are Meet & Greets and how do they work?

32:30 Question 13 - What are some things students can look forward to on test days to make it a more positive experience?

34:44 Question 14 - What are some student accommodations that are currently in place for state testing?

37:09 Question 15 - How would students or parents go about requesting specific accommodations?

39:14 Question 16 - How can families help encourage their children to participate and do their best in state testing?

41:15 Question 17 - Are there waiting areas or similar for parents dropping their kids off for state testing?

44:12 Question 18 - Can you tell us about State Testing Leaderboards?

46:37 Question 19 - Can you give the students some words of encouragement for state testing?

48:47 Student Testimonials