Mixed feeling race through campus hallways on the morning that Standard Achievement Test (SAT) 10 testing begins. Some students enjoy the chance to get a break from the routine and have shorter class periods; others dislike the test and wish they were back in third period Algebra.

This year the SAT 10 test will be held April 18-20. Students will spend part of each morning taking the test and then have shortened classes the rest of the day.

?I think students need to take the SAT 10 because it tests the general knowledge of each student,? Chapman Hutchins, ?06, said. ?That way the school can see how much they understand.?

Some students enjoy the SAT 10 test and the chance to show off what they have learned.

?I think the SAT benefits our school,? Hannah Wilhelm, ?07, said. ?The staff can see where everyone is at and what they need to focus on more. I wouldn?t change anything about it, except the I would take out the science section.?

Hutchins also believes that the time spent taking the SAT 10 is time well spent.

?I like the fact that students are actually doing something productive and not playing around with their friends during class,? Hutchins said.

The SAT 10 test presents a different experience for seniors because they are no longer required to take the test. Instead, seniors spend extra time in their English, Economics and Bible classes.

?I?m glad seniors don?t have to take the SAT 10 test,? Whitney Ensom, ?05, said. ?At this point, the seniors don?t really care about it anymore so it is nice that we don?t have to care about them.?

While seniors may feel that the SAT 10 is no longer important to them, teachers and faculty see the importance of knowing how our school compares with other schools in the nation.

?Our scores compare very favorably,? Jon Endicott, vice principal, said. ?We are proud to show parents our results, but we are always looking to improve.?

In order to continue a tradition of excellence, Endicott suggests that students relax and do their best as they take the test.

?Take the test seriously and don?t overstress,? Endicott said. ?Students should work hard concentrating during the test. It is also good to get extra rest, eat breakfast and be on time for the test.?

Whether students fear or anticipate the test, it is coming. On Monday morning the test will begin at 8:00 A.M. and teachers will learn if their students were really paying attention during the last lecture.

For more information on the SAT 10 contact Endicott at [email protected].

For study tools for the SAT 10 visit www.ct4me.net/standardized_test_preparation.htm.