The debate surrounding if exams should be before winter break or after has been a controversial topic among teachers, students, and parents. The compelling arguments include if there will be a significant educational benefit to the students.
Scheduling exams before winter break allows the students to engage in meaningful and productive review of the important material that they have learned throughout the semester. During the weeks before the exam, students are able to cover a significant amount of content that will prepare them in time. Having exams shortly after retaining the information can reinforce the learning material. By having exams after relearning information, teachers or educators are able to see the students progress in the class and their knowledge of the subject.
Kim Napaloitano, one of CFHS schools counselors stated, “I think EOC’s should be before break because there is a concern of the students getting out of the routine of school, it would be a better experience for students and teachers to have them before break so there is less stress.”
Additionally, exams before winter break can get rid of stress and anxiety that are associated with final exams. Students tend to burden themselves with loads of school work to study for over the holiday breaks instead of spending time with families and friends. If exams happen before break, students and teachers are able to enjoy their time off without the pressure of the upcoming assessments. This also can lead to a better balance in the students and teachers lives, allowing them to take a break for the new school year.
Fatima Castro, a senior at CFHS stated, “I think final exams should be before Christmas break because we don’t forget our information over break.”
Also, scheduling exams before break can give the students the satisfaction of completing their classes. Taking exams or finals before leaving school for break can give the students closure and success of the class when they leave school. This accomplishment can allow the students to not stress over break worrying about studying for any future exams. Having final exams after the holiday break can lead to the student being disconnected from the education they learned over the semester resulting in them doing poorly on their final exams.
Laurie Prafke, CFHS’s testing coordinator, adds, “First semester doesn’t end until the second week of January, so teachers and students need those days to finish the curriculum and get ready for the exams. Some classes are still learning new material right up until the exam to finish in time. Also, what would we teach/learn for two weeks in January if we had exams early? I think unless the district changes the end of the fall semester, we should keep it the way it is.”
Emersen Stultz, a senior at CFHS stated, “Although having final exams and EOC’S would be easier for students and teachers, I’m not sure what we would do for the two to three weeks after Christmas break so it is better to just have the exams after break.”
Scheduling exams before winter break seems to be a more beneficial option for students. It helps students retain information longer and also reduces stress by allowing the students to enjoy the holidays without worrying about upcoming exams. This can lead the students to be more motivated to return to school for their new classes. Schools should consider the timing of exams to make it a priority to enhance the learning experience for students.
