Dear MVMPCS Students & Families,
Greetings to our MVM students and families. We begin this week with an acknowledgement of the International Day of Peace. “The International Day of Peace (Peace Day) is observed around the world each year on September 21. Peace Day provides a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to Peace above all differences and to contribute to building a Culture of Peace.” Although our blue ribbon tradition looks different this year, students are still offering messages of peace, and the fence in front of the school is taking on a more festive appearance! Students who wish to share a photo of themselves with their ribbon in front of the school may send them to Ms. Amanda or Ms. Sarah for a community slide show to be featured on the Guidepost. Thank you to everyone who is able to contribute to celebrating and advancing peace in and for our community.
On another note, some families shared messages of concern over the administration of the Performance Series test. Here is a brief explanation that should ease those concerns. The test is responsive to each student, and questions are generated based on student responses. For example, if a student misses a question, the next one will be easier; but if a student answers a question correctly, the next one will be more challenging. This provides a more accurate measure of a student’s performance, and teachers will use this data to plan individualized instruction for each student. The test is typically given three times per year so we can monitor student progress and make instructional decisions. The School Improvement Plan team also uses this data when writing goals for the year.
Small group instruction begins this week at MVMPCS with an initial cohort of students. A limited number of staff are working on a voluntary basis to provide this instructional support. Unfortunately, we do not have the resources needed to bring in every student who would benefit from small group instruction. We plan to evaluate students’ progress at each term and determine whether or not they should continue in small group, possibly opening up a space for additional students. That said, if you feel your child needs additional support to be successful during online learning, reach out to their teacher and let them know. There are many ways to get that, from teacher-offered student support hours, small group online time with an IA, and more.
Finally, in staffing news, we welcome Ms. Lynn Williams who will be joining Ms. Christie’s primary classroom as an instructional assistant. She comes to us with several years experience in Montessori education. We also welcome Ms. Florence Litzenger who will be joining Mr. Craig’s upper elementary classroom as an instructional assistant. She has previously subbed for us and already knows many of the staff and students. They bring a wealth of experience with them and will be wonderful additions to our community. We are thrilled to have both of them on board!
“Let us all create Peace Day everyday!” Best wishes for a fabulous week. Take care!
http://education.fcps.org/mvmpcs/ 217 Dill Avenue Frederick, MD 21701 240-236-6100 Fax: 240-236-6101 Principal: Amy Dorman