Principal's News

February 2008

Dear Parents/Guardians:

            It is hard to believe that we are in the third marking period. The students are working hard in their classrooms. Grades 3, 4, and 5 are preparing for their upcoming PSSA’s. Grades 3, 4, and 5 will take the mathematics and reading portions of the PSSA during the weeks of March 31 and April 7.

Due to spring break occurring the week prior to PSSA administration, we are asking that students practice for the assessments and review any work your child’s teacher sends home. Parents may help their children prepare for the assessment by encouraging them to get plenty of sleep the night before and providing them with a good breakfast on the morning of the assessment. In addition, parents can reassure children that the assessment gives them an opportunity to demonstrate their learning and helps teachers plan the best possible instruction for them.

            Our teachers and students continue to focus on writing as a school wide goal. Students are focusing on improving their writing of constructed responses in reading and performance tasks in mathematics. Writing is a process that can be practiced in all content areas. Please support our efforts by asking your child to write at home. Have lots of paper, cards, stationery, markers, pens, and pencils around and a blank book that can be used as a journal. Encourage writing for real reasons: thank-you notes, invitations, lists, and letters. Continue to encourage your child to read widely. The best writers are almost always the best readers.

            Thank you for supporting our students and playing an active role in the education of your child.

Sincerely,

Frank Garritano