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School and Families Working Together for Student Success

Healthy Habits Help Children Be Prepared for MCT2 Assessments

Mississippi classroom teachers and their students have been working hard all year to prepare for the upcoming Mississippi Curriculum Test Second Edition (MCT2). During the test days in May, both schools and families can help students do well with some simple healthy
habits.

“We know that good nutrition, regular physical activity and plenty of sleep provide the foundation for student success in the classroom,” says Shane McNeill, Director, Office of Healthy Schools Mississippi Department of Education. In order to provide the healthiest possible environments for teaching and learning, our schools have been implementing important enhancements in school meals and physical education (PE) programs. Mississippi schools are becoming national leaders in nutrient-rich meals, healthy vending options, fitness assessments and innovative PE programs.”

Healthy home environments are equally important for student performance. During MCT2 testing, families play a vital role in helping children to be fit, healthy and ready to succeed. According to education experts, four simple habits can help students do their best at school,
especially during standardized assessments.

1.  Every student needs a good night’s sleep in order to concentrate and learn at school. While sleep needs vary from child to child, experts agree that a minimum of 9 to 10 hours is best for most kids. Even though teenagers like to stay up late, their need for sleep is just as important as younger children.

2.  As parents know, breakfast provides an all-important kick-start for the day. A nutrient-rich morning meal is the best way to fuel child’s brain for both learning and testing. Students can eat breakfast at home or at school. In either case, both carbohydrates for energy (whole grain
cereal, toast or fruit, like bananas) and some protein (yogurt, a cheese stick, eggs or lean meat) are important.

3.  Fluids are also critical for brain function. Students need plenty of fluids to stay well-hydrated and on-task at school. Water and low-fat or non-fat milk are the best fluid choices for growing bodies. Children need three 8-oz. glasses of milk and three to five 8-oz. glasses of water.

4.  Physical activity is not only good for physical health; it’s also good for academic performance and stress reduction as well. While students participate in physical activities at school, some after-school movement is also important, especially during MCT2 assessments. Any fun
activity fun is great. Families can take a neighborhood walk or bike ride - or shoot some hoops on a local court. 
“Student success is a partnership between schools, families and the community,” Dr. Tom Burnham, State Superintendent of Education said.  “We know that health is academic and that students do best when smart habits are reinforced at home and throughout the community.”