Escape Room Experience Builds Confidence for State Testing

An escape room experience was recently offered to Cuyler Elementary School third through fifth grade classes to help students prepare for upcoming state testing. The activity was facilitated by school counselor Kasey Evans and supported by Brandon Turnbaugh, the leader of the Skills for Success class.

The experience was designed to be hands-on, engaging, and supportive while helping students build the skills and confidence needed for success.

Students worked in teams to solve a variety of riddles, puzzles, and challenges. Each task was connected to strategies that can help before, during, and after testing. Topics included practical test-taking tips, confidence-building strategies, problem-solving, teamwork, and emotional regulation skills.

The activity also helped normalize testing anxiety by showing students that nervous feelings are common and by teaching strategies they can use to stay calm, focused, and confident throughout the testing process.

"The students were highly engaged and seemed to really enjoy the interactive format," said Evans. "We were able to implement this experience for participating students in our Skills for Success classes who will be taking state testing."