Each year, March brings with it the excitement of the NCAA’s March Madness, where collegiate teams battle it out for the ultimate title. But this March, at Centreville Middle School (CMS), a different kind of madness took center stage, one that blended assessment preparation with excitement in a fun way.
With the upcoming ACAP assessment, a state-mandated test, CMS Principal Jessica Taylor and her team decided to infuse a spirit of enthusiasm and camaraderie into the preparation process. With that, CMS’s own version of March Madness was born.
Throughout the entire month of March, students at CMS dedicated themselves to practicing their skills and knowledge, gearing up for the assessment ahead. Principal Taylor highlighted the commitment and effort put in by students, making preparation a collaborative and engaging endeavor.
To cap off their preparation journey, CMS organized a thrilling basketball event, pitting teachers against students in a friendly match. Divided into separate teams by gender, the gymnasium echoed with cheers and laughter as the players showcased their skills on the court.
The event didn’t just involve the basketball teams; it was a celebration of the entire school community. Cheerleaders brought their infectious energy to the sidelines, while the girls’ basketball team, boasting an impressive 15-0 season, added to the excitement with their presence.
Beyond simply preparing for the assessment, CMS embraced the belief that success can be achieved through various avenues. By incorporating elements of fun and teamwork into their preparation strategy, they demonstrated a holistic approach to education — one that values not only academic achievement but also fostering a positive and inclusive school culture.
In the end, while the outcome of the basketball games may have been decided on the court, the true victory lay in the spirit of unity and determination that filled Centreville Middle School. As CMS showed, sometimes the path to success is best navigated with a little fun along the way.
