Reclaiming Your Energy During Long Test Days
- Dr. Nadine O'Garro
- Mar 28
- 3 min read
Alright, super teachers, test season is in full swing, and I’m here to help you make the most of those long days spent proctoring.
Yes, I said “make the most”—because in true Coach form, we’re not just thinking about how to survive these test days, but also how we can prep for life after “test season” is over. Let’s dive in!
Proctoring Blues
The struggle is real, right? Test days can feel like a mental and emotional marathon.
You're used to being "ON" from the moment you walk in the door until the moment you leave, so suddenly sitting still, supervising, and keeping the room quiet feels… well, strange. We’re pulled from our usual roles to now sitting in a pseudo-passive role as proctor. It's an unsettling shift, and it can even feel a bit jarring.
But here's the thing: this time can actually be a much-needed gift.
Yes, I said it—boring can be a gift!
So, how do we lean into this “boring gift” and make it work for us?
Let’s focus on reclaiming your energy and mental health during these long testing hours, instead of letting it drain you.
A Proactive Plan for Self-Care
Sometimes, the added layer of anxiety comes from the discomfort of not knowing what to do with ourselves during those long, uneventful test days. But what if we could shift our mindset? What if instead of seeing the quiet time as wasted, we saw it as a chance to invest in ourselves?
Lean In & Breathe
This could be a perfect time for some self-care strategies. Try a brief mindfulness practice like deep breathing, visualization or journaling. Use this time to reflect on your teaching practice and set personal goals.
These moments don’t have to feel “boring”—they can be an essential part of your own wellbeing, helping you recharge and reconnect with your energy.
Let’s talk about snacks—quiet snacks!
We need fuel, but we don’t want to break our students’ focus with loud crunching and munching. Think fresh fruit salad, a Green Goddess salad (because avocado makes everything feel like a treat), or rice bowls—simple yet satisfying. And remember your water. Staying hydrated keeps your energy levels steady.
Think about it: You’ve been “on” all year long, juggling lesson plans, classroom management, and endless student needs. Now, you have a rare opportunity for a mental health break. Sure, it's a little jarring, but it’s also a gift. Lean into this slower pace, breathe, and embrace the silence as a space to recharge.
As much as we might find proctoring dull, it’s a valuable time to recharge before diving into what comes after test season. And if you’re looking for more ways to find balance between teacher wellness and supporting your students, I’ve got you covered.
This August, the Academy will be launching a 1-year virtual residency for K-12 teachers designed to help you not only survive but thrive through the challenges of the school year. We’ll tackle everything from classroom management to self-care, and how to continue engaging your students in ways that support their academic and emotional growth.
Let’s reclaim the power of these test days and come out on the other side energized and ready for the next chapter.
Want to learn more about transforming your teaching practice? Let’s chat about how coaching can help you reach your professional and personal goals. Reach out today!
Your wellbeing matters.
~ the Academy
Comentários