Schools and local businesses work together to support WASL success

By Jennifer Pierce

The High School Wasington Assesment of Student Learning (WASL) test can lead to high levels of anxiety among students. To help encourage and recognize the efforts of students, all of the test takers at Chief Leschi Middle/High School were eligible to participate in a unique opportunity during lunch. Test takers who arrived to school on time, worked for the time provided, and helped to maintain a quiet testing environment were invited to eat a catered lunch every day of the High School WASL test. Lunches included pizza, sub sandwiches, Indian Tacos and teriyaki chicken and rice from Wok & Teriyaki House.

The WASL test wasn't only difficult for students. Staff members also found that they were a bit more anxious during the WASL testing window. To help offset some of the staff members' tensions, the Middle/High School offered staff members breakfast before the start of school. All staff members were encouraged to pick up some of the treats provided by the school to enjoy before the start of testing each day.

Two local businesses even helped to support the WASL season by providing partial donations to the Middle/High School. The students' teriyaki lunch was provided by the Puyallup business Wok and Teriyaki House (check out their coupon on this page). This new business also chose to donate some additional portions of chicken and rice to feed the hungry test takers.

Additionally, a recently-opened Starbucks in Puyallup donated two "Joes to Go" to accompany a selection of other Starbucks items like muffins, cookies and scones. Staff members were particularly pleased with the Starbucks beverages and food items. "Our staff members were so excited, they were lined up before we could get all of the food out of the boxes,” said Principal Lucy Dafoe.

While the WASL test will continue to be high stakes for high school students, the test takers and staff members at Chief Leschi Middle/High School know that they will be recognized for working hard during this critical time.

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