October, as always, is shaping up to be a busy one! Our
character value for this month is CREATIVITY defined as: using your imagination to do something
unique. I hope you continue to use
the Core Essentials character trait to spark discussions that lead to
reinforcing the value CREATIVITY.
On the 14th, 15th, and 16th
of this month our second and fourth graders will be taking the CogAT test. The Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) measures students’
learned reasoning abilities in the three areas most linked to academic success
in school: Verbal, Quantitative and Nonverbal. On October 21st, 22nd, 23rd both second
and fourth grades will be taking the Iowa Test of Basic Skills or ITBS.
Although the CogAT’s primary goal is to
assess students’ reasoning abilities, it
can also provide predicted achievement scores when administered with The Iowa
Tests. There is no special preparation you need to do at home for these tests. What
you can do to help your student
is make sure they are rested and present at school on time on testing days. Check your calendar and make sure that you
have not scheduled doctor appointments during these days. Testing will take
place during the morning when the students are fresh.
A parent
letter was sent home this week about the upcoming tests that should address any
questions you might have about the actual test and its purpose. Of
course, as always, if you have additional questions, please contact me.
Red Ribbon Week will be celebrated the last week in
October. This is a district wide drug awareness celebration. We will kick off the week with an assembly
entitled “Dogs of Character” provided by our JES PTO. Each day of that week we
will emphasize the benefits of leading a drug free lifestyle. Please take
advantage of this opportunity to talk with your children about making good
decisions. It’s never too soon or too late.
If I can assist you in any way, please contact me.
Kindest regards,
Ziba Johnston Counselor
Elizabeth.johnston@southlakecarroll.edu
