Every junior knows the pressure of the ACT. Here at Potosi High School, the preparation for that big exam is extensive and hard work. ACT prep starts in the third quarter of the freshman and sophomore years, and the second quarter of junior year. Although many students dislike all of the effort that goes into the preparation for the ACT, teachers are doing their best to find solutions to prevent burnout and test fatigue.
In recent years, Potosi’s guidance counselor, Sara Davis, has been the District Assessment Coordinator (DAC). Just this year, we have introduced a new middle school educator and DAC, Mason Erschen. Our main topic here at Potosi is pushing students to do their best, and that can be shown through our test prep.
Erschen explained that, after conversations with others, “I’ve learned that Potosi offers a dedicated test prep course designed to equip students with essential testing strategies, boosting their confidence in each section of the ACT.” In recent staff meetings, there have been talks of what ACT prep program we are going to use in the upcoming years. With the contract of our old program coming to an end, it is important to weigh the options of what other programs are out there.
When Erschen was asked about his opinion on the programs, he responded, “While our current approach has been effective, discussions have emerged about the possibility of adopting a new test preparation curriculum. The goal is to further support students by addressing test fatigue and burnout, ensuring they remain engaged and motivated throughout the process.” It is no secret that Potosi educators want what is best for each student, so trying to decide what program is going to benefit them the most is hard work.
According to a conversation with Mrs. Cohen, the next ACT program will not be decided until the summer of 2025. “We will have to find something that costs almost nothing,” Cohen stated. “We used ‘On to College’ with COVID money and that funding is no longer available."
Whatever the results of the summer's discussion are, it will be led by the best of intentions. The district’s main goal will continue to focus on the benefit of the students, and what program is going to help them succeed the most. The chosen program will be based on its ability to prepare the students as well as possible. Every Student, Every Classroom, Every Day.