Administrators organized the April 14 rally in anticipation of STAR testing, which begins on April 25 and continues for five days.

"We've been trying to focus ourselves on different aspects of this test. One of these things is test preparation," Willow Glen Elementary School principal Dayle D'Anna said. "Another factor is to build self-confidence: 'You can do it; you are smart. We want you to try your best. This test is important.' "

At the rally, D'Anna told the assembled students the most important thing was to do their best.

"We're celebrating all the work you and your teachers have done and showing that you can have fun even when you're trying your hardest," she said.

As much as D'Anna doesn't want students to become overly anxious about taking the STAR tests, she said, "We're all anxious about it here because we do need to improve our test scores."

Every school has to test at least 95 percent of its students to comply with the federal standards laid out in President Bush's "No Child Left Behind" program.

As important as the STAR tests may be, the principal said she doesn't want her teachers to ignore their core curriculum in favor of preparing their students.

"The most important part is that you don't get out of balance," she added. "The quality of teaching is what makes the difference, but you have to include what's on the test."

The motivational speakers at the rally told students that everyone has individual strengths. Parent Alexandra Hoppe, who runs marathons, told students there are many similarities between taking a test and participating in an athletic event.

"I train my body, and you guys train your brain," Hoppe said. "When the day comes, I don't have to worry because I've prepared myself.

"Maybe you're not going to know all the answers" on the STAR test, Hoppe said, "but that's OK because you've worked hard. Every year you'll do better and better and be more prepared."

Local tennis pro and instructor at the San Jose Swim and Racquet Club Ken DeHart reminded students that mental focus is important in both athletics and academics.

"The mind is a powerful tool," DeHart said. "When you take the test, you win because of the effort you put into it."