Dear Parents:

              

March is a busy month.  We have registration for the 2014-15 school year,  the TCAP (Transitional Colorado Assessment Program) Assessments, and just before Spring Break,  the staff versus student basketball game. 

We should all keep in mind the importance of TCAP.  The district focuses on a full body of evidence (MAPS Assessment, District 12 Common Assessments, In Building Common Assessments, and TCAP) when making important Curriculum and Instruction decisions.  Teachers also use assessment data to plan and drive their instruction for each class.  However, TCAP is the most widely used assessment when a decision needs to be made regarding your student’s potential and possible best successful avenue in guiding schedules (used to guide necessary classes, such as remedial classes or advanced classes). 

               Last year Shadow Ridge showed gains in our scores and we expect that next year will look even better.  In order to reach an improved status we need you to be cognizant of the dates and the importance of this state mandated test.  Please help us support your students by remembering the dates of the TCAP Test, which will be March 4^th-13th.

 

How can you help your student in preparation of the TCAP Assessments?

 -Be sure that your child is in attendance every day and prepared to do the best

                he/she can on the test.  Please do not schedule trips, medical
                appointments, or other personal events during this assessment period.
 

-Make sure that your child eats breakfast every morning.

 

               -Encourage your child to take their time and try to answer every question.  Often

                students do not attempt the question if they do not know the answer.  
                It is important to remember that if students attempt the question, they can earn partial credit. 
                Receiving partial credit can make a significant  difference in their categorical score (advanced, proficient,         
             partially proficient, unsatisfactory).
 

-Instill in your child the importance of writing complete sentences when answering a

               question.

                -Show interest in how the test went that specific day.  This will display your belief

                 regarding the importance of the assessment.                               

 

It is also important to know Adams 12 Five Star Schools has received some funds from a federal grant focused on drug-free schools.  Dark Knight K-9 Detection Services will be providing contraband inspections utilizing non-aggressive and certified detection canines.  The main priority of this program is prevention.  SRMS will be participating in this program, along with other secondary schools in District 12, with random searches taking place up to once a month. 

Thank you for your partnership in supporting your child, Shadow Ridge Middle School, and District 12 School district!

 

Sincerely,

Susie Wickham
Principal