With standardized testing season in full swing at public and private schools across the nation, parents and students have probably experienced increased stress. Teachers are also at risk for elevated stress levels due to the NCLB Act which links tests scores to teacher performance. To naviagate the testing season without the stress, CNN put together a few questions that parents can ask before and after their children complete the standardized tests required by their school and state.

Questions to ask before testing

• Which tests are given in my child’s grade?
• What are the purposes of these tests?
• What will these tests measure?
• How will the scores be reported?
• How will the results of the tests be used?
• What do you do to prepare children for tests?
• What can I do at home to help my child prepare to take the test?
• What happens if my child performs poorly?

Questions to ask after testing

• What do the test results tell me about my child’s strengths and weaknesses?
• What can I do to help strengthen my child’s skills and abilities?
• Are the test results consistent with my child’s performance in the classroom?
• How does my child compare with his peers?
• Is the test data used to help improve instruction?
• What changes, if any, will be made in the classroom instruction?