Greetings Families of 3rd-5th Graders:
State Testing (Smarter Balanced Assessment-formerly known as SBAC) starts this week. Generally speaking, testing will take place Tuesday-Thursday with makeup testing on Fridays. English Language Arts tests will be this week, Math will be the following week. And fifth graders are the only ones to also take a science test in week two.
Most important. Don't stress. We want students to do the best we can to show off what they are truly capable of. However, truth be told, this test will not impact their life, their career, or their future.
We have preparing students all year and since kindergarten. There's not much you can do now to cram for the test except the following:
1. Ensure Plenty of Rest: A good night’s sleep is one of the most important ways to support your child’s performance.
2. Healthy Breakfast: Please make sure your child eats a nutritious breakfast each morning. A balanced meal can improve focus and energy levels. Breakfast in the Classroom will be provided, of course.
3. Arrive On Time: Testing will begin promptly each day. Being on time helps reduce stress and allows your child to begin the day calmly and confidently. Students who are late will have to take the test in separate location or take the test on makeup day.
5. Bring Headphones (if you have them) and fully charged device...or leave these items at school so they are ready to go
6. Sample Questions are available online. https://sampleitems.smarterbalanced.org/BrowseItems. However, again, don't stress. Teachers have already reviewed these with students.
7. Attend every day. Stay home if you're sick. Otherwise be in school. Students will do better if they are able to take the test with the rest of their class and not on the makeup day.
If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher or to our front office.
Thank you for your continued support. We’re confident that our Melrose Stars are ready to shine!