Published: October 28, 2009 02:17 pm      

High school offers test preparation seminar

In an era of growing pressure on schools to improve test scores and accountability, Mick Cochran, principal of Joshua High School, is taking steps to make higher test scores accessible to students of all abilities and income levels.

He recently joined with Test Prep Seminars to help prepare students for the PSAT/SAT testing with three goals in mind, to help students reach their full potential, to help students receive scholarships, and to help students gain acceptance to the college of their choice.

“These students deserve the best opportunities possible, and Test Prep Seminars provides a five-hour course that can make a huge difference,” said Cochran. “The students who participated agree that the program prepared them significantly for college entrance exams, as well as the mandated TAKS tests.”

With 267 students taking part, 85 percent of students rated the five-hour seminar an “A.”

College entrance exam scores are one of the top three factors in evaluating students for both admissions and scholarships.

For those reasons, Chuck Murphy, director of curriculum for Test Prep Seminars, says it’s critical that as many students as possible be exposed to test-taking and time-management strategies like those taught in this seminar.

“It only takes a few points to make the difference between receiving a scholarship or gaining entrance into the college of your choice.” said Murphy. “Our workshops deliver improved test scores in a fun presentation, right to the high schools.”

The skills students also learn to improve overall study habits, Murphy said.