Mayor Domenic J. Sarno visited with the students at Milton Bradley Elementary School today to read a book to students as part of the Link to Libraries program and help get students ready to “show what they know” on next week’s Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) exams.
Along with students and staff, Mayor Sarno joined Milton Bradley Principal Kristen Hughes, Link to Libraries President & CEO Laurie Flynn and Executive Vice President Amy Anderlonis for the pre-testing pep rally and read the book “Big Test Jitters” aloud to the students. Kindergarten students displayed signs of encouragement for their older schoolmates who will take their state MCAS exams next week.
Mayor Sarno stated, “I had a fantastic time today at the Milton Bradley pep rally. I want to thank Principal Kristen Hughes, the team at Link to Libraries, and the teachers, faculty and staff at Milton Bradley for welcoming me to spend some time with the students as they get ready to take their state MCAS exams. We are so grateful to our educators who work hard to prepare our students and the team at Link to Libraries who has put over 1 million books in the hands of students and continues to inspire young readers.”
“The students and I talked today about how everyone gets nervous sometimes, especially when a big test is coming. It’s completely normal to be nervous, but that won’t ever stop us from trying our best. We also talked about the sense of pride and accomplishment you feel once the test is over and you know you gave it your best shot. To all our Springfield students, I know you will all do great work on your MCAS and I know you will feel great once this next test is behind you. ‘Donut forget, donut stress, just try your best!’ – we are proud of you and you should all be proud of yourselves too.”
“P.S. It was great to see former Forest Park Middle School Principal Bonnie Osgood, too with her Red Sox gear on ready for the Sox home opener – big shout out to Springfield’s own Michelle Brooks Thompson on performing the national anthem at today’s Red Sox opening day at Fenway.”
