Alton Elementary School Kicks Off State Testing with Pep Rally

ALTON - Elementary students had an exciting kickoff to a week of standardized testing.

On Monday, March 23, 2026, North Elementary School students and staff gathered for a “Rock the Test” pep rally as the students prepared to take the Illinois Assessment for Readiness (IAR). This three-day test will measure students’ progress in math and English language arts. But the week was off to an exciting start with a morning of games, music and fun to encourage students to stay positive and try their best.

“It’s just really to build excitement and confidence around that IAR testing. We really wanted the students to feel like they were prepared and supported and proud of the hard work that they’ve already done,” said Julie Osborn, North’s assistant principal.

During the pep rally on March 23, students enjoyed a music theme complete with a “Finish the Lyric” game and a musical chair scavenger hunt for teachers. Alton High School cheerleaders and basketball players stopped by to cheer and perform for the elementary schoolers.

The IAR testing takes three days to complete, but students can participate in dress-up days throughout the week. They can also earn “backstage passes” after each test session by following expectations like taking their time, staying focused and coming prepared. A student from each classroom will be drawn to receive a prize every day. The testing will conclude with a “final encore” ice cream party next week.

Osborn explained that these incentives aim to keep the students engaged and remind them they can succeed. Testing can be stressful, so the teachers and staff at North are trying to emphasize that the students know a lot and will “rock the test.”

“It’s definitely their time to shine,” Osborn said. “They’ve been practicing all year. They’re ready. They’ve worked super hard, and it’s finally their time to show us what they’ve learned and what they know.”

IAR testing measures how well third through eighth grade students are learning grade-level standards in math and English language arts. Second grade students take the CoGat, a district assessment.

IAR test results will impact the district’s Illinois School Report Card. It also indicates to teachers where students may need additional support. The test measures proficiency and growth across time.

It’s an important test, but Osborn and her fellow teachers try to remind the students that they don’t need to be overwhelmed. The goal is simply to see how they’re learning.

Osborn encourages families to make sure their child is getting enough rest and eating a healthy breakfast before the test each day. She urges students to arrive at school on time.

But, maybe most importantly, she suggests that parents and caregivers can advise their children to do their best and stay positive. This was the goal of the kickoff pep rally, and the staff at North Elementary will continue to support the students through the testing and beyond.

"We want students and families to know that all the hard work has paid off — they are prepared, supported, and ready to do their best,” Osborn added. “We are so proud of them!"

❮ ❯

This Featured Article is sponsored by Alton Community Unit School District #11. To get your business or organization featured on www.Riverbender.com, contact us at sales@riverbender.com.

More like this:

Alton School District Announces Two New Elementary Principals 

Jan 21, 2026

Alton Student Lucy Cassenti Excels Academically and Musically

Apr 15, 2026

Belt’s Measure To Provide Relief For People Who Fail A Vehicle Emissions Test

Mar 6, 2026

Illinois EPA honors student winners in annual poster, poetry and prose contest

Apr 18, 2026

IDNR Awards 108 Biodiversity Field Trip Grants To Illinois State Parks, Historic Sites And Museums

2 days ago