MCAS Week!

As many of you know, the Reading MCAS begins this week. We will have a brief practice test on Monday. This is fairly short and simply gives the children an exposure to the experience.

The actual test will be administered on Wednesday, March 23 and Thursday, March 24 at 9:00am. The test is created to take about 60 minutes. Some children will be done sooner, and others will take longer. The test is untimed, so the children can take as long as they need.

I am asking all students to be in bed by 8:00 the nights before the test. Please help your children follow this guideline. In addition, all children should eat a healthy breakfast before coming to school each test day.

The children will be invited to enjoy the snacks that our wonderful room parents are working to arrange. They will be encouraged to eat lightly when they get to school. After all children have completed the test, they will also be able to eat an "extra" snack and relax for a short time. The children will also get extra recess each test morning in order to run off any extra steam.

This week will look different in terms of homework. Written homework will not be assigned. In addition, the timed quizzes will be given on Tuesday and Friday. Your children should continue to read (or be read to) for at least 20 minutes each night.

Most importantly, I do not want your children to feel stressed about MCAS. It is important that they know we believe they will do well. Please encourage them to work hard and do their best. However, also remind them that no matter how they do on MCAS, we know they are smart children!

Thanks for your cooperation. Don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have.