Spring Testing and Clean Up: 5/5/19

Good afternoon EMMS community,

I wanted to make sure you were all aware that tomorrow we begin MCAP/PARCC testing. We will begin with ELA at all three grade levels and finish with Math. Note the testing schedule was designed so that one grade level of students is taking one unit of ELA or Math a day with the other two grade levels in their regularly scheduled classes. Students are asked to leave all electronics, cell phones, smart watches, earbuds, etc., in their lockers during testing. Your student may bring a book to read should they finish the test early. To minimize the impact on missed instruction we ask that you try to avoid early dismissals and appointments during testing over the next 3 weeks. Finally, when it comes to the testing our message to the students is very simple:

Give your best effort and take this as an opportunity to show what you know! No added pressure and it’s just another day at the Mill.

Now on to a few spring cleaning topics we could use your assistance with. While I have reminded the students of the following expectations, it would be much appreciated if you could reinforce the following at home should the topics come up:

• Cell phones and technology are to be turned on silent and “out of sight” once the 8:23 am bell rings. They may only be used again during lunch and any use must follow the technology agreement with the main focus being NO PICTURES OR VIDEOS.
• Headphones may not be worn in the hallways at any time. All headphones need removed upon arrival and can only be worn again when in lunch.
• Hoods and hats should not be worn throughout the school day. We’ve seen an increase in hoods and hats which has made it difficult to ID a few students when an issue needs to be addressed. Additionally, the hoods are being used to hide headphones during class transitions.

Please understand these concerns are important because of safety concerns. We have students with varying visual impairments and many students on crutches right now. I try to explain to the students we as adults can’t text and drive due to distraction, they can't text and walk due to distractions. We don’t want anyone to accidently run into someone and cause any injuries. Regarding the hoods and headphones the same applies. We need to have all students and staff passing in the hallways identifiable and ready to take direction should an emergency occur.

As always thank you for your support and feel free to contact me directly with any questions.

Have a great remainder to your day.

Mr. Rattay