Somehow, January has already flown by.
And with it comes that familiar feeling that testing season is just around the corner.
For many educators, this time of year can feel like a shift. The pressure increases. The pacing tightens. And connection can start to feel like something we don’t have time for because academics and test prep take center stage.
The truth is, the days and weeks leading up to testing are often stressful for everyone. Students feel the pressure. Teachers feel the responsibility. Energy dips. Patience wears thin.
This is exactly when connection matters most.
Research consistently shows that when students feel seen, heard, and connected to their teacher, engagement increases and academic outcomes improve. Studies have found that strong teacher-student relationships are linked to higher motivation, better attendance, improved behavior, and measurable gains in achievement. When students experience a sense of belonging, their brains are simply more ready to learn.
And that’s where The First Five can be especially powerful during this season.
There are components built right in that help manage the stress and emotions that tend to rise around testing. A quick check-in gives students space to name how they’re feeling. A question or quick connect gets their brains warmed up without pressure. A quote or moment of positivity can reset the tone of the room. And sometimes, a short mindfulness or brain break is exactly what both students and teachers need to breathe, refocus, and move forward.
It supports them.
As testing season approaches, this is a reminder to lean into the simple, consistent moments that help students feel grounded and supported. Those first few minutes can set the tone for learning, even on the most high-pressure days.
You’re not behind. You’re not doing it wrong.
You’re doing important work, and connection is part of that work.
We’d love to hear how you’re using The First Five to support your students during this season. As always, this community grows stronger when we learn from one another.
-Edtomorrow Team