January 10, 2012

Dear Clark School Families:

I would like to extend a Happy New Year to all families and welcome back.  I hope that everyone enjoyed their winter break.  It is now time to get back into the routine of school as many students will be taking state mandated tests in the next two months.

All students in the ELL Program and students that have refused Bilingual Services will take the ACCESS Test.  Testing will be done anytime from January 12 to January 31.  Students will be tested in Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.

Students in grades 3 – 5 will be focusing on the ISAT Tests which begins the first week in March. Students will be tested in Reading and Math in grades 3-5 and Science for grade 4.

Please mark your calendar for January 18.  Parents are requested to stop by between 4:00 – 5:15 to pick up your child’s report card and strategies to assist your child in Reading and Math.  There will not be time to conference with the teacher during report card pick-up, but you may schedule a conference if you so desire. I hope to see all parents on January 18.  More information will be sent home closer to the day.

As the winter months continue, it is important that students dress for the weather.  Students should wear boots, gloves or mittens, hats, and heavy coats.  Hooded sweatshirts do not provide enough warmth for the cold days.  Please be sure that your child is dressed appropriately for the weather.  Students are not to arrive at school before 8:55.  There is no supervision until that time.  Remember that your child is to be dressed in uniform each and every day. (Jeans are not part of our school uniform.)

Do not forget to read this month.  Kindergarten, first, and second grade students are expected to read 20 minutes a day, 400 minutes for the month.  Third, fourth, and fifth grade students are expected to read 30 minutes a day, 600 minutes for the month.   Remember to sign the agenda each day that your child reads. The staff at Clark School appreciates your assistance with this.

Again, welcome back and Happy New Year.

Sincerely,

Reneé R. Sams                                           Andrew W. Carlson

Principal                                                   Assistant Principal