Dear Parents,

We are in February now; can you believe it?! Gosh, the months are just flying by. I want to say hello to everyone and to encourage you to join the many activities we have available for you and your children.

Our teachers in grades 3-8 have provided Parent FCAT Sessions. I hope that you made the time to attend. My intent to provide these sessions is to help you as parents understand what your children need to master. Successful testing is not simply core subject mastery; it is also the preparation for the test to include: rest, healthy eating habits, and a happy start to their day. In addition, it includes test-taking tips and strategies. Our students have been learning the little tips in order to help them when they encounter an FCAT question they do not fully understand. As parents, you will learn how to nurture the practice at home that is critical for their success. I have had the best feedback so far.

Middle School Parents: no news is the best news other than report cards and interims. Those of you who have been invited to attend a Team Conference are there because we feel a sincere need to assist you with the matriculation of your child. Remember...students in middle school must remediate/retake any CORE classes they fail prior to entering a public high school. That includes Ben Gamla High School in Plantation. A letter is going out to parents whose middle school students are not realizing success due to the following:
1. Lack of homework completion
2. Prolonged absence and tardy arrival
3. Apathetic or lazy attitudes and
4. Untruths as to homework and classroom time to begin work with teacher assistance.

If you receive one of these letters, please sit down with your child and have a serious talk with him or her to help them realize you expect them to do their personal best. I personally have spoken with the 8th grade class to remind the students of the consequences for failing core classes in middle school. We discussed all the ingredients for success and it will, unfortunately, surprise many of you to learn your child openly and honestly stated they just didn't care. Now, after the counseling and guidance I shared with them last week, they promised to take their studies seriously. They will if you support the effort.

The following activities are nearing:
1. The GALA Benefit Dinner on Sunday evening, February 19th
2. The Book Fair
3. Sunday afternoon, February 12th at TY Park from 11-3
4. FCAT Writes for 4th and 8th grade students (February 28-March 1)
5. Last day before Spring Break is Friday, March 9th; school reconvenes on Monday, March 19th.
6. FCAT Camp is in progress. If your child has been asked to attend, this is critical for his or her success. Please make this a priority.

I hope you are all enjoying good health and seeing your children grow academically and socially. I have begun my Principal's Book Club with students in 5th grade and hope to offer this gifted reading opportunity to 4th grade students next. If your child was not recommended and you would like to read the novel selected with him or her at home, I will be pleased to share the title with you.

Take care and remember that my door is open to you and your concerns. I simply ask that you kindly make an appointment so that I am able to properly assist parents as needed.

Warmest Regards,
Mrs. Miller