Oak sixth graders present redesigned privacy boards to reduce test distractions

Sixth-grade students from Oak Elementary presented a class project to the Los Altos School District Board of Trustees proposing a redesign of the tri-fold privacy boards used during testing to reduce vandalism and distractions.

Students described how boards were originally used appropriately but later showed holes, doodles and unrelated markings that distracted peers during assessments. After design-thinking sessions and collaboration with second-grade buddies, the class considered multiple options — repainting, replacement, or erasing markings — and chose a simple aesthetic: a two- or three-color gradient with a short motivational phrase such as "You've got this," coated with Mod Podge to reduce peeling and aging.

Student presenters said they tested paints and materials and emphasized learning how to identify a problem, prototype solutions, pivot when a design proved distracting, and collaborate across grade levels. Board members praised the students' process and asked what they learned; students said they learned to pivot, re-evaluate and consider community input.

The presentation was ceremonial and informational; no action was required. The board recognized the students and thanked them for sharing their work.