L.E. White Middle School
Parent/Guardian December - Januray Update
Principal's Message
TESTING
Parents and Guardians,
I hope this letter finds you well. As we enter into the season of academic assessments, I am writing to inform you about the upcoming standardized testing that our middle school students will be undertaking.
Standardized testing serves as a valuable tool to assess the academic progress of our students and to gauge the effectiveness of our instructional programs. These assessments provide valuable insights into each student's strengths and areas for improvement, helping us tailor our teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of our learners.
Here are some key details regarding the standardized testing:
Testing Dates: Please see the sections below which indicate the testing dates for PSAT 8 and MSTEP. Please ensure that your child arrives at school on time and is well-rested and prepared for the assessments.
Test Content: The tests will cover various subjects including mathematics, language arts, social studies and science, depending on the grade level. Each test is designed to align with state standards and curriculum objectives.
Preparation: We encourage students to get a full nights rest paired with a healthy breakfast in order to set them up for the best possible outcome. As a reminder, breakfast is provided at school and is free to all students.
Support: Our dedicated team of educators is committed to providing support and encouragement to students throughout the testing process. If your child has any concerns or requires additional assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
Test Environment: We strive to create a conducive testing environment that minimizes distractions and promotes focus and concentration. To ensure the integrity of the testing process, we kindly request that you remind your child of the importance of following test protocols and guidelines. Cell phones will not be permitted in the testing rooms.
Results: Following the completion of testing, you will receive detailed reports outlining your child's performance. These reports offer valuable insights into your child's academic strengths and areas for growth, and we encourage you to review them carefully and discuss them with your child. Some tests provide results sooner than others. PSAT 8 and MSTEP results will be available to families in the fall of 2024.
Continuous Improvement: As educators, we are constantly striving to enhance our instructional practices and support systems to best meet the needs of our students. Your feedback and insights are invaluable in this process, and we welcome any suggestions or concerns you may have regarding standardized testing or any other aspect of your child's education.
We recognize that standardized testing can sometimes evoke feelings of anxiety or apprehension in students and we are committed to providing a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters confidence and success. Together, we will work hand in hand to empower our students to achieve their full potential academically and beyond.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support in your child's education. If you have any questions or concerns regarding standardized testing, please feel free to contact the school office.
News and Updates
PSAT TESTING - 8th GRADE ONLY
All 8th grade students are scheduled to take the PSAT test the week we return from Spring Break on Thursday, April 11. This is a test students will continue taking every spring through their 11th grade year. The test determines how prepared students are for college and a career, and in 11th grade, will be used as a measure for college entrance.
For the first time ever, this test will be electronic. 8th grade students will be assessed in the areas of reading, writing and language, and math. Unlike most tests students take, the PSAT IS TIMED. All students have been assigned to a testing room and will report to that room by 7:40 to begin testing.
Parents and guardians, it is crucial that all 8th grade students arrive to school on time Thursday, April 11 in order for the timed testing to begin. Late arrivals may result in students having to test on a later date.
MSTEP TESTING
6th Grade: ELA and Math
7th Grade: ELA and Math
8th Grade: Science and Social Studies
Perception Survey
We value your feedback and ask that every parent/guardian reading this newsletter takes about 5-10 minutes to complete the following survey. It is the annual Parent Survey for the 2023-2024 school year and helps us identify strengths that we can build on and identify areas of growth for our school.
CONFERENCES
We will be offering in-person, virtual, or phone spring conferences beginning April 15 - April 28.
Conference time options are before school, during the teachers planning period, or after school.
Conferences are offered to all families interested but will be strongly encouraged for those students who have a D or F in class.
Teachers will be reaching out to the parents/guardians of students who have a D or F in their class.
If your student is earning a grade other than a D or F, and you would like to have a conference, please reach out to the teacher, by way of email, who you would like to meet with.
If your student is earning three or more F’s, the office will be contacting you for a virtual conference with teachers and administration.
Students are encouraged to be present and participate in the conference.
TECH CENTER SUMMER CAMPS
Looking for a way to keep your student(s) engaged this summer? Checkout the camps offered by the Tech Center. Mailings were sent home to all current middle school students, but be sure to check out the links to gather more information. There are a variety of courses offered from babysitting to pet care and much more. Camps run June 10 - June 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Upcoming Dates
March 29 - April 5 Spring Break
April 8 School resumes
April 8 BOE Meeting
April 9 ESL Field Trip
April 11 8th Grade PSAT Testing 7:40-11:24
April 17 Early Release Day
April 24-25 6th, 7th, 8th Grade MSTEP Testing
May 2 Tigers Unite/Level 2 Field Trip @ Fellinlove Farm