April 10, 2015

• Remainder of the STAAR Test calendar:   8^th grade Mathematics; April 20: 6^th and 7^th grade Mathematics, 8^th Social Studies; April 21: 6^th and 7^th grade Reading, 8^th grade Science; April 22. TEA has scheduled the Algebra EOC (End of Course) test for the week of May 4-8. Test security measures will be in place on test days. Guest will not be allowed on campus on the above test days. Also, to limit student access to cell phones during testing, it is suggested that students leave cell phones at home on the days of testing. If you choose to allow your child to bring a phone, students must submit their cell phones that are turned off to their test administrators on the day of testing. Cell phones will be placed in an individual zip lock bag and returned to each student as soon as all testing has been completed for the day. You may also go online at www.tea.state.tx.us Student Assessment Division for additional information.

• Texas Education Agency state assessment, STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) is more rigorous than previous state tests. It contains more test questions at most grade levels. The majority of the STAAR assessments will test material students studied this year. Also, as it was last year, tests will have a time limit. Unless a student is eligible for an accommodation, each student will have four hours to complete each assessment. We have repeatedly spoken with our students about the changes in the state testing and how the test is more rigorous than the previous TAKS test.   Coupled with this test and the increased passing standards, your child must also meet the passing standard in the class in order to be promoted.   8^th grade students who are not successful on the tests will have one additional opportunity before the end of the spring semester (in May) and one last opportunity at the end of June to retest and pass STAAR. 8^th grade students who do not pass STAAR on the second administration, will be required to enroll in summer school to prepare for the 3^rd and final administration of STAAR. If a decision is made not to enroll and successfully complete this requirement, then they will be retained.  If you would like additional information concerning the STAAR test, visit the Texas Education Agency website at www.tea.state.tx.us and click on Testing and Accountability on the left hand side.  Also, you may contact your child’s teacher for more information.  Thank you in advance for your support.

• In emergency situations when a student must ride a different bus or be let off at another stop, parents/guardians must call the Transportation Department, (903-291-2149) as early in the day as possible. When calling, please inform the Transportation Supervisor, Mr. Stagner, of the child’s name, caller’s name (parent/guardian only), phone number, reason for change in ridership for that day, and drop off location. All changes must originate from the child’s parent or legal guardian and include the above information. A callback may be initiated. To ensure the safety of our students, notes will not be accepted for this special arrangement.

• WOMS Majorette and Flag try-outs are scheduled for today, Friday, April 10 after school. Contact Mr. Whatley at [email protected] for 903-291-2060 for more information.

• Our Middle School Band will participate in the UIL Concert and Sight Reading Contest April 14 and 15 at Gladewater ISD Auditorium. Contact Mr. Whatley (903-291-2060) for additional information.

• Spring Choir Concert will be Thursday, May 14 at 6:30 pm in the auditorium. Contact Ms. Hughes at 903-291-2051 or [email protected] for additional information.

• Spring Band Concert is scheduled for Monday, May 18 (6^th grade) and Tuesday, May 19 (7^th and 8th grade) at 6:30 pm in the auditorium. Contact Mr. Whatley at 903-291-2060 or [email protected] for additional information.