The Next Level Teacher Podcast - Episode 106 (Encore): The Truth About Your Students’ Test Results
It’s testing season—and with it comes a wave of pressure, stress, and self-doubt for so many teachers.
In this encore episode of The Next Level Teacher, we’re taking a different approach.
Instead of debating standardized testing or trying to “fix” the system, we’re
focusing on something much more powerful: your mindset around your students’ test results.
Because here’s the truth most teachers were never taught:
👉 Test scores are neutral.
👉 The meaning you give them is what creates your emotional experience.
Inside this episode, you’ll learn how to separate data from drama, avoid the trap of shame and blame, and respond to test results in a way that actually supports your growth—without tearing yourself down in the process.
✨ In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
** Why your students’ test scores are not a reflection of your worth as a teacher
** How to apply the self-coaching model to testing season The critical difference between data vs. the story you attach to it
** What “clean pain” vs. “dirty pain” looks like—and why it matters
** How to take productive responsibility without spiraling into shame
** Why you’re not actually chasing test scores—you’re chasing a feeling
** A healthier, more grounded way to evaluate your impact as an educator
💡 Key Takeaway:
A test score is just a snapshot—how a student performed on a set of questions on a single day.
It is not a complete measure of their growth… and it is definitely not a measure of your value as a teacher.
🎯 Ready to Go Deeper?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just need support navigating this time of year, you don’t have to do it alone.
👉 Sign up for a free mini coaching session with me and we’ll work through whatever is on your mind—whether that’s testing stress, burnout, or a goal you’re working toward.
Click HERE to schedule!
⭐ Help Other Teachers Find This PodcastIf this episode resonated with you, take a minute to leave a rating and a kind review. It helps more teachers discover these tools and create calmer, more sustainable teaching careers.