Letter To Parents/Guardians
Dear Parents/Guardians:
Each year, the third grade students are required to take an assessment in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics. This year, the ELA will be administered for three days beginning on Tuesday, April 17 and ending on Thursday, April 19. The Mathematics test will take place the following week on Wednesday, April 25, Thursday, April 26, and Friday, April 27.
These tests don't just measure what the students have learned in third grade (although the majority of the questions pertain to third grade curriculum), but areas that they should have mastered by this stage in their schooling. For the past few months, we have been doing practice tests and creating testing situations so that the children will be comfortable when the actual testing occurs.
There will be no homework assigned during the two-week testing period. It is my hope that this will allow the children to be well-rested and focused for the tests. I also know that spring sports practices and games may be happening, so family schedules will be even more hectic and I don't want to add even more of a burden.
The tests will begin at approximately 9:15 a.m. each day and run for about 90 minutes. Attendance during this time is extremely important. If a child arrives late they will not be able to go to class if the test has started. They will then have to take a make-up exam on another day. This is also the case if they are absent. In both instances, the make-up will be given by another teacher and in another room. My experience has taught me that the students do best when they are in a setting they are used to and with someone they are comfortable with. I'm asking that every effort be made to make sure your child arrives to school in a timely manner on these days. Some children may experience anxiety over the testing situation and may say they aren't feeling well. Unless they are extremely ill, we encourage you to try to have them at least attempt coming to school and staying just for the testing period. Since you know your child best, use your judgement if this should happen.
Prior to the test, I'll have a small snack available to give them some extra "brain power." It would be helpful if your child has a small breakfast each morning as well as a good night's rest. While it is important that the students do their best on the assessment, my hope is that they don't get too concerned or worried and not perform well. We've talked about the reasons for the tests and I've stressed the importance of doing well, but at the same time, let them know that these are not something that I want them to get upset or uptight about.
Test results historically have not been returned to us until well into the following school year. This year, the tests are being given earlier than in previous years, so scores could become available before the end of the school year. Results will be either mailed home if they arrive back in the summer, or will be sent home with the final end-of-year report card.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me either by phone at the school or through e-mail. I appreciate all that you can do to make this experience as painless as possible for your child (and you).
Sincerely,
Glen White
