Published: October 13, 2009 11:42 pm      

Testing day

CADDO MILLS — More than one hundred juniors and nearly two dozen sophomores at Caddo Mills High School are prepared to take the Preliminary SAT (PSAT) test today, according to school administrators.

Today is the national testing date for juniors and select sophomores across the country. Caddo Mills students will be taking a version of the test that will qualify each student for National Merit Program recognition.

A total of 126 Caddo Mills High School students will take the PSAT today, 103 of which are juniors, while the remaining 23 are sophomores. According to Curriculum Director Knel Gandy, the school district paid for the juniors to take the test, while sophomores who opted to take the test had to pay the $13 fee out of their own pockets.

“This is the second year for the school to pay for the junior class to take the PSAT,” said Gandy. “We feel it is so important that they get feedback about their skills so they know what to work on so they can be prepared for the SAT.”

Gandy added that several teachers have offered classes on test-taking strategies. “English teacher Tammy Butler and Algebra 2 teacher Nikki Jones have given lessons on test-taking strategies in their classes,” said Gandy. “I am thrilled that the teachers were willing to devote their time and that students stepped up to the plate and have prepared themselves to do their best work.”

One of the biggest advantages for students taking the test is the report they will receive regarding their critical skills when the test become available, according to Gandy.

“We have really emphasized to juniors the importance of preparing for college,” said Gandy. “The PSAT truly is a great study guide where students can evaluate their strengths and address their weaknesses as they prepare for college.”