October Update!

This month, your child’s teacher has finished testing and diagnosing what skills your child needs to help him/her become an incredible reader and great mathematician. If your child is in PreK-1st grade, they were given the Phonological Awareness Skills Test and the Phonics assessment. Second through fifth graders have taken the previous assessments plus the Primary/Elementary/Upper Spelling Inventory and the Aimsweb+ assessments in both reading and math. So needless to say, your child has been thoroughly assessed!
All of the results of these assessments will be shared with you at our upcoming Parent/Teacher Conferences. According to Oakland University, “Let’s face it; kids today face a lot of pressure in school.  When parents and teachers work together to try and provide the best environment for learning, the child stands to benefit the most.” How can you, as a parent, make the most of your upcoming conference? Here are a few tips to make this time the most beneficial:
• Show up and be prompt. Kids see that school is important when you make it a priority in your busy schedule. If you are unable to make your scheduled time, please call and reschedule. Show your kids in this small way that they matter.
• Plan ahead. Jot down some questions for your child’s teacher (ask about both strengths and weaknesses, academics, behaviors, social/emotional well-being, and friendships). Also come prepared to share what you see in your child. Your child’s teacher really cares about him and wants to know about him. Share what you see in the home and create a team for your child’s benefit.
• Go in with an open mind. Remember that your child’s teacher wants the best for your child. Leave behind any issues you may have had with past teachers and allow both your child and his teacher a fresh start.
• Go home and implement suggestions that you as a team came up with at the conference. If you all decided your child should spend more time reading, go home and set up a schedule of when and where that will take place. When we immediately come up with an action plan, we are much more likely to follow through on those good intentions.
Remember: Parent involvement in education is like the frosting on a cupcake, it makes it complete and oh so sweet!

Each month I will post information regarding literacy strategies or skills that might be helpful for you and your child at home. If you have any questions about Literacy First, please call me at 554-2333 or email sstein@usd261.com.