It is hard to believe we are facing the end of the 2010-2011 School Year. We have many important dates to remember and prepare for as we countdown to the end of the year.  Most importantly is the upcoming SOL test.  Our students will test from May 10th thru May 25th, our schedule is published on the webpage for your review.  A letter was also sent home on Tuesday May 3, 2001 with every student.

Teachers have been reviewing for the past few weeks in preparation for the upcoming tests.  Most reviews will take place during the school day however it is imperative that students devote quality time outside of school to ensure academic success. Students have been given a variety of sources to use as preparation for the upcoming tests. I would devote 20-30 minutes (per course) each night to review this material.  I would encourage you over the next few days to discuss the importance of these tests with your child.  As stated in our policy students who fail an SOL will be retained for the current academic year.

We will begin our morning testing sessions at 8:30am; any student arriving after this time will not be permitted to test.  We will hold sessions for late buses allowing those students to test as scheduled. Students who report to school late or are absent, will be assigned a make up session as the schedule permits.  I would encourage you to make every effort to have your student present and arrive on time during these two weeks.  If you have pre-scheduled appointments, it would be beneficial to your child to reschedule for a later date.

All tests will be administered online.  We will provide each student with two number two pencils and scratch paper.  All students will be held in Block 1 during the morning session, and in Block 3 during the afternoon session.  By eliminating movement in the hallways we can ensure an environment conducive to student success. This means that students have the potential to remain in Block 1 or 3 for at least 90 minutes, and up to 3 hours as testing dictates. This year we will hold intensive review sessions as we prepare students for upcoming tests.

Research supports the correlation between rest and student achievement.  I would encourage each student get at least eight hours of sleep the night before a test.  In addition, a healthy breakfast is strongly suggested to ensure a comfortable testing session.  Many of our content teachers are providing after school tutoring for students.  I would implore you to take advantage of these services.  If transportation is an issue please contact me directly to make arrangements.  Our computer lab has extended hours on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.  Mrs. Julia Norris, a highly qualified math instructor, is available for additional math support in the Computer Lab on both nights.  We began intensive pull out remediation on Monday, May 2nd.  These sessions will take place during the academic day, and may require a student to miss an elective.  It is our goal to give students all available resources and support as we prepare for SOL administration.  You will be notified by letter if your child is involved in any remediation program.

If you have any questions in regards to content or testing strategies please contact your child’s’s content specific teacher.  As always if I can be of any assistance you may contact me at 556-5320.