Click this link to view the whole newsletter: Newsletter for October, 2015
From the Principal…
This year, we’re preparing students to take a new assessment, ACT-Aspire. PARCC was administered last year, but it was determined that giving the ACT-Aspire would be more beneficial for students as we prepare them for college and careers.
One of the challenges of preparing for a difficult test is to increase students’ stamina, or their ability to stick with a difficult task to its completion. Stamina is especially hard if the task isn’t fun.
I experienced this first-hand several years ago while taking a national teaching exam. At one point during the three-hour test, my mind began to wander. I realized this and refocused my attention on the test. I passed, but the best lesson I learned was the importance of staying focused to the end of the test.
Our teachers go to great lengths to present lessons that engage students so we can increase learning and make it stick. It’s a thrill to see students involved in discussion or a hands-on task and excited about learning; lessons that are fun!
There are also times that teachers must work to increase academic stamina and endurance. If students are enthusiastic about demonstrating their learning, we have a much better chance of increasing their stamina and showing what they actually know on tests.
Our goal is to prepare our students to perform well on any challenge they confront in life, including high-stakes tests. Thank you for supporting your child and for giving us the honor of working with your child.
I'm a retired educator. I enjoy learning and sharing with others. If you like the outdoors, check out my other blog: ozarkmountainhiker.com 
Principal Notes 