We know that our scholars, educators, and families have been working hard all school year to build the necessary mastery of grade level standards, so no weekend study sessions or extra homework are on the agenda. Rather, we are looking forward to the opportunity to bear witness to the outputs of these efforts and celebrate our community’s collective drive and determination. With this collaborative spirit in mind, there are a few things families can do at home to help their students arrive at school prepared and ready to do their best work on testing days:
- Ensure your child gets a good night's sleep. Consider limiting electronics or other distractions that may delay bedtime.
- Encourage your child to eat a nutritious breakfast at home or when they get to school.
- Recommend your child dress in layers to put on or take off a sweater depending on the temperature of their testing space.
- Remind your child that they can take as much time as they need on the test, and it’s okay if some parts of the assessment feel challenging.
- Take a few extra moments on the morning of the test to celebrate your child’s hard work and build confidence in their level of preparedness.
As always, thank you for all you do to support your students and the whole PHA community. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, concerns, or ideas. Have a wonderful (and hopefully less snowy) weekend!
Be well,
Amy O’Connell
Upper Elementary Interim Principal
LINKS TO HELPFUL RESOURCES
MCAS Practice
Several families have asked about resources to help students get extra practice and build comfort with the testing format before MCAS testing begins in April (see dates below). This link provides access to both computer and paper-based tests in all subject areas.
Counseling Referral
Change can be challenging! Please complete this form if you believe your child requires extra support or check-ins during this transitional time, and a counseling team member will contact you shortly.
Principal Office Hours Sign-Up
Use this sign-up to add an appointment to my calendar. We can meet via phone, online, or in person. Feel free to ask questions, discuss your ideas for our school, or get to know one another!
DATES TO REMEMBER
Monday, April 8 - Walking Field trip to Foss Pack for Eclipse Viewing
Tuesday, April 9 & Thursday, April 11 - ELA MCAS Testing (4th-6th Grades)
Wednesday, April 3, 2024 - 5th Grade Coffee with the Teachers
LINK: https://zoom.us/j/93821988790?pwd=TkRqUTdMb0ZrdmJxWEFldCtMMFVyQT09
Monday, April 15 - Friday, April 19 - No School: April Break
Wednesday, April 24 - 6th Grade Coffee with the Teachers
LINK: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82948995758
Friday, April 26 - Coffee with the Leaders
LINK: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82948995758
Tuesday, May 7 & Thursday, May 9 - Science MCAS Testing (5th Grade)
Tuesday, May 14 & Thursday, May 16 - Math MCAS Testing (4th-6th Grades)
Thursday, June 13 - 6th Grade Bridging Ceremony (Rain Day: Friday, June 14)