Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Principal's Message

Standardized Testing:

On Thursday, April 7 the standardized testing period will begin. Grade 4 will take the AIMS Science test using paper and pencil. Grades 3-5 will take the AZ MERIT tests in the areas of Reading, Writing and Mathematics. This is a computer-based test. Students may bring their own ear buds for the AzMERIT testing. We will provide headphones, but some students may prefer to bring their own for testing. Headphones/ear buds are needed for the AzMERIT Reading, parts 1 and 2 tests. You may learn more about the AzMERIT by visiting the Arizona Department of Education’s website: http://www.azed.gov/assessment/azmerit/.  Please review the schedule below and use it as a reference during our testing weeks.  Also please ensure that your student(s) are at school on time as once each testing session has begun they will not be allowed to enter class until the testing session is complete.  Make-up testing will begin at a later date.

Third Grade
April 7              AzMERIT Writing
April 12            AzMERIT Reading and Mathematics Part 1
April 13            AZ MERIT Reading and Mathematics Part 2

Fourth Grade
April 7              AzMERIT Writing
April 11            AIMS Science            
April 12            AzMERIT Reading and Mathematics Part 1
April 13            AzMERIT Reading and Mathematics Part 2

Fifth Grade
April 7              AzMERIT Writing
April 12            AzMERIT Reading and Mathematics Part 1
April 13            AzMERIT Reading and Mathematics Part 2

Parents often ask how they might assist their children in preparing for the tests.  Here’s what you can do:
·       Ensure that your child is on time each day.  This is critical!
·       Make every effort to have your child attend classes regularly.  Avoid absences.
·       Ensure that your child has adequate sleep and a nutritious breakfast
·       Plan appointments and other disruptions to the school day for another time
o   Classes will not be interrupted during testing times
·       Discuss the tests with your child and encourage individual best effort
·       Visit the website for AIMS student guides and sample tests: http://azmeritportal.org/

Last Thursday night, Canyon View’s Site Council held our World Culture Family Night and it was a huge success!  Students and families alike participated in a variety of engaging and hands-on activities that supported our two goals of building global systems and perspectives and cultural literacy in a community-based atmosphere.  I want to thank each and every one of our parent and student volunteers who made this event possible, we could not have done it without you! Please be sure to check out our Twitter feed found on the Canyon View website for photos from our family event (https://twitter.com/CanyonView1).

I hope everyone has a fantastic Spring break!

Sincerely,

Rob Henikman

Principal