At many schools, state testing season brings a mix of nerves, quiet hallways, and sharpened pencils. But at Global Village Academy North, something entirely different happens.
Under the leadership of Principal Chelsea Byrd, CMAS season transforms into an unforgettable, schoolwide experience filled with creativity, energy, and community spirit.
Each year, Byrd and her staff reimagine testing season with a bold, immersive theme that takes over the building. This year’s Retro Arcade Pep Rally brought vibrant color and nostalgic fun to life, with hallways decked out in larger-than-life nods to classic games like Tetris, Super Mario, Donkey Kong, and Rubik’s Cube. From floating “coins” lining the ceilings to pixel-inspired displays and neon accents, every detail was designed to spark excitement the moment students walked through the doors.
The celebration doesn’t stop at decorations. The kickoff pep rally set the tone with games, cheers, and a highly anticipated tradition: the annual staff dance video. Complete with costumes, choreography, and plenty of personality, the video is a highlight that brings laughter and joy to students and staff alike.
“This is one of my favorite traditions we have here at GVA North, and it truly helps build excitement and confidence in our students as they head into state testing,” says Byrd.
What makes this tradition even more special is how inclusive it is. While students in grades 3–8 prepare for testing, younger students in kindergarten through second grade play an important role in supporting their peers. They write encouraging notes, participate in a schoolwide door decorating contest, and even compete for the coveted Quietest Class Award during testing days. It’s a powerful example of how the entire school community comes together to lift one another up.
This level of creativity and enthusiasm is nothing new for GVA North. Last year’s “Red Carpet Ready: It’s Time to Steal the Show” theme turned the school into a Hollywood-style celebration, complete with glitz, glamour, and star-studded flair. Each year, the staff raises the bar, dreaming bigger, creating more, and delivering experiences that leave students in awe.
The result? Students walk into testing season not with dread, but with confidence, excitement, and a sense of belonging.
At GVA North, CMAS isn’t just a test. It’s a tradition, one that proves when a school invests in joy, creativity, and community, even the most stressful moments can become something truly special.