Principal's Page
School Year 2011-2012
Dear Strathmore Families,
Did you know that school attendance is linked to student achievement?! Well, survey says, "YES"! According to data reported by the Department of Education, successful schools engage students in the learning environment AND ensure students come to school regularly. Students are more likely to succeed in academics when they attend school consistently. It’s difficult for the teacher and the class to build their skills and progress if a large number of students are frequently absent. Conversely, students who are not in school on a regular basis are more likely to fall behind in their academics.
Attendance is important every day of the school year, but especially during testing season. The Maryland School Assessment (MSA) will be given to students in Grades 3-5 beginning, Monday, March 12th and continue through March 21st. Attendance is factored in a school’s adequately yearly progress. Please send your healthy child to school every day. In preparation for the MSA at home, here are a few test-taking strategies to share with your child:
1. Get plenty of rest prior to testing. Research indicates that when a student gets less than 6 hours of sleep, it can adversely affect memory.
2. Encourage your child to pay attention in class and complete assignments. The summative tests are aligned with our curricula.
3. Help your child read and follow instructions carefully. Students can practice by reading a recipe, a book from the school library, or a map.
4. Prepare a well-balanced breakfast the morning(s) of testing. Avoid heavy foods that may make him/her groggy and avoid high sugar foods that may make them overly active.
5. Make sure that your child gets up early enough so that he/she will be on time to school.
6. Keep a positive attitude about tests. Tell your child: "You can do it! I believe in you!"
Thanks for all you do to support results for every student!
“One Dream, One Team!”
Cheryl L. Smith
Principal
Strathmore Elementary