High stakes testing puts considerable pressure on schools, teachers, and students to achieve at high levels. Therefore, how schools and individuals cope with this major source of stress may have important implications for the success of high stakes testing. This article reviews relevant theory and research on stress as they relate to public schools and high stakes testing. Particular attention is given to the negative consequences of stress when the external pressure exceeds the ability of the school or individual to cope with the pressure. The article also reviews strategies that can be used by schools, teachers, and students to cope with stress.