Get Your Desk (and Theirs) Test-Ready—A Simple System for a Focused Classroom

Heyyy SuperTeachers!

Now that you’ve cleared the paper piles and outdated materials, it’s time to tackle the biggest source of clutter—your desk and student desks.

Let’s be real—your desk is probably a hot mess right now. It’s “organized chaos,” a system that works for you… but during testing season, it’s a major distraction that can set the wrong tone.

1. Reset Your Desk—Model a Focused Environment

Here’s how to do it:

• Clear all the clutter—toss expired memos, file away student-related documents, and create a clean, functional workspace.

• Set the tone—an organized desk sends a clear message: Focus. Preparation. Success.

• Make it a habit—reset your desk at the end of each grading period and before testing season.

When your desk is clutter-free, students subconsciously pick up on the expectation of focus and organization—and that mindset can translate to their test-taking approach.

2. Student Desks—The 15-Minute Reset Strategy

If desks are shared by multiple classes, the clutter is probably next-level.

Student Desk during Clean up

Here’s a quick and effective system to get student desks test-ready:

Step 1: 

Bring in two big trash bins (ask your building maintenance team for help).

Step 2: 

Set a timer for 10–15 minutes and have students remove everything from their desks.

Step 3:

• Toss all food, candy, and drinks (ew, we don’t want to know how long that’s been there).

• Sort papers—keep only essentials, toss anything without a name, and have students bring questionable items to you. Paper/books/electronics etc.

• Wipe down desks inside and out with disinfecting wipes.

Bonus Tip: If desks are shared, pick your most responsible class for this job.

Or, incentivize it—offer cookies, class points, or even a dropped homework grade for their effort!

Organized teacher desk.

The Payoff

Yes, it’s messy in the moment, but this one-time reset pays dividends in student focus, confidence, and success.

When students sit down in an organized, clutter-free space, they can direct their energy toward doing their best on the test.

Your Challenge: 

Organized Student desks

Set a time this week to tackle either your desk or student desks.

Then, drop a comment:

Did you notice a shift in focus?

You’ve got this, SuperTeachers!

Need more support?

Let’s talk!

Every classroom is different, and sometimes you just need a thought partner to figure out what works best for you and your students. If you’d like to dive deeper into instructional strategies, student engagement, or just need a fresh perspective, schedule a coaching call! No pressure—just real talk and actionable steps to help you thrive.

Schedule a time that works for you here: Scheduling Link

Looking forward to connecting!

~ Dr. O