From “They Can’t Do This” to “How Will I Help Them Do This?”
Heyyy SuperTeachers,
As state testing season gets underway, let’s talk about the most important mindset shift that needs to happen before our students sit down to take their exams.
Many of us introduce the growth mindset at the beginning of the school year and reference it occasionally, but are we truly embedding it into daily instruction? Are we reinforcing the idea that effort, persistence, and the right strategies lead to success?
Too often, students (and adults) move through school believing they either “got it” or they don’t. And unfortunately, this myth is reinforced by systemic practices like tracking, ability grouping, and lowered expectations—especially in under-resourced schools.
The Real Growth Mindset Shift
One of the most harmful beliefs in education is that students must master “prerequisite” skills before engaging with grade-level work. While scaffolding is important, keeping students locked in below-grade-level work limits their growth and confidence.
As educators, the mindset shift starts with us. We must move from: “They can’t do this.” to “What different strategies can I use to help them do this?”
Where your mind goes, your energy flows.
If you approach test preparation with the belief that your students can engage with grade-level content, you’ll naturally design lessons that support their success.
This isn’t about differentiating for each student in a way that’s unsustainable. It’s about knowing your students—valuing their lived experiences, cultural knowledge, and natural abilities—and using that as a foundation for learning.
Call to Action
This week, take a moment to reflect:
Are you unintentionally lowering expectations for certain students?
What strategies can you use to help all students engage with grade-level content?
How can you position every student as capable and competent?
Drop a comment and share one mindset shift you’ve made that has positively impacted your students! Let’s grow together.
Need more support?
Let’s talk!
Every classroom is different, and sometimes you just need a thought partner to figure out what works best for you and your students. If you’d like to dive deeper into instructional strategies, student engagement, or just need a fresh perspective, schedule a coaching call! No pressure—just real talk and actionable steps to help you thrive.
Schedule a time that works for you here: Scheduling Link
Looking forward to connecting!
~ Dr. O
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