Team Mario Bros, Team Yoshi and Team Bowzer work to answer IAR prep questions.
The halls of Hometown Elementary School were lined with K-2 students cheering on the third, fourth and fifth graders as they made their way to the gym for the annual IAR kick off assembly. The little students cheered and shouted "Do your best!" and "We are proud of you!" lighting up the faces of the students as they prepare to take the state tests this week. The 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students entered the gym ready for a fun filled Super Mario Brothers-themed pep rally to kick off the state's IAR testing week. In an effort to boost morale and motivate students, the school’s pre-test assembly took on a unique twist, transforming the gymnasium into an interactive world inspired by the beloved video game.
The pep rally, organized by the school’s faculty and student council, featured Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and other iconic characters from the Super Mario universe. Staff and students dressed in their Super Mario t-shirts and answered IAR prep questions. When their team got the questions correct, their Mario kart moved forward. In between rounds teachers lead students in a series of high-energy relay races like the Mario Brothers relay where they had to put on the brother's shirt, hat and grab the plunger to race across the gym. The 4th graders took Yoshi's eggs and relayed back and forth trying not to drop the egg during the race. Team Bowzer (the 5th graders) participated in Bowzer's blast where they used party blowers to blast Bowzer off the table. The gym was filled with lively chants and encouragement from all the students.
"I wanted to do something fun and engaging that would help our students feel excited and confident as they approach state testing," said Mrs. Gomez, who helped organize the event. "Super Mario Brothers has always been about teamwork, perseverance, and overcoming obstacles—values that directly align with the mindset we want to encourage as they prepare for the challenges ahead."
Students were encouraged to "Power-Up" when taking the test by reading all the choices, eliminating answers that may NOT be correct and trying rereading questions.
The theme of the pep rally wasn't just about fun and games; it also served as a reminder of the importance of doing one's best and staying positive throughout testing week. Dr. Bencik led students in a motivational speech, focusing on the message that, just like in the Super Mario games, challenges can be conquered with determination, hard work, and a positive attitude.
As testing week continues, the teachers and staff at Hometown Elementary are hoping the spirit of fun, teamwork, and perseverance will help their students navigate the challenges ahead—and remember that they can always "level up" with hard work and determination.