Thanks so much for the patience on the blog last week. Report cards are done and turned in. They will go home with the kids this Thursday. Overall, the grades earned from me were pretty darn good. I have been grading a lot harder in social studies and science, especially when it comes to writing outside of the box ideas and fifth grade quality. We are trying really hard to look deeper and past the obvious answers. The grades in their specialist classes are not as good for some. I am not sure if students/parents understand that in the fifth grade library is not just checking out books, PE is not just running around playing games, music is not just singing or playing instruments, and art is not just crafts and drawing. There is a state curriculum that all of the specialists have to teach and evaluate. Library is a lot of technology resources, music is learning different types of music and composers and practicing outside of the classroom, art is learning styles and color wheels and about famous artists. And PE is also half health. Students have assignments and high expectations placed on them in these areas of studies. They need to be taken seriously and if missed they need to find out what they need to make up all on their own. With saying this, the students have library class tomorrow. They get points taken off their final grade every time they come without their books. Can I encourage you to have your child keep their library books in their backpacks at all times?
This week we begin our NWEA map testing on the computer. Tuesday morning we will take the reading portion of this test. Thursday we will take the language test. And next week we will finish up with the math. This test is graded as they go and we will receive their results immediately following their completion in each topic area. Students took this test at the beginning of the year and now we get to see how much they have learned and/or retained. We look for at least a 7 point growth area in the fifth grade, and a 9 point growth in math. If students do their very best they will show this growth for sure. I love that this test is on the computer because the kids love that it is on the computer. I will be sharing their results with you at the end of next week.
Just a couple of reminders: This week we do not have school on Friday or Monday of the following week due to Easter. Next Friday is the Rusty assembly in the afternoon. We will be having our April volunteer opportunity at Lake Elmo. Date and information to come.
Have a super Sunday and if you know what is so special about April 22nd write it down in your child's planner for a $200.00 bonus. (Hint: It has to do with all of us!) Happy Hunting!
