March, 2008

Dear Mabry Students, Parents, and Guardians,

Recently, on a stormy Tuesday (2/26), I was reminded of what a prepared, creative staff we have at Mabry.  Like many of you at home, we were for the most part without power for the majority of the day.  The partial power we did have enabled us to move classes to sources of light, then adapt instruction to our surroundings.  Throughout the day I saw evidence of students learning and enjoying the novelty of the experience.  There were countless examples of people working together to problem solve; a sense of humor and caring was pervasive.  Though I wouldn’t wish it on anyone, times like these are valuable for reminding us of the importance of making the most of those moments that become the story we tell later.  Special thanks go to the bus drivers and cafeteria staff who experienced the biggest challenges.

Mabry has recently been nominated by the Chief State School Officer to apply for the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program.  We are eligible based on having academically superior student achievement, as measured by the Spring 2007 CRCT.  The application has been submitted and awards will be announced in the Fall of 2008.  So far this year, eighth graders have participated in two assessments:  the ITBS and the Middle Grades Writing Assessment (MGWA).  Results on both measures indicate a continued trend of academic excellence.  On the ITBS our student’s achievement exceeds their predicted performance.  On the MGWA the percentage of students exceeding standards has increased, while the percentage who do not meet standards has decreased. 

Every student participates in the CRCT in April.  The testing window is a little later than usual:  April 23rd – May 2nd.  Please check your calendar now and make alternate plans for any appointments during this window of time.  Attendance is critical, and students are apt to perform best when they take the test with everyone else.  Our students are well prepared for this assessment.  Two additional practice opportunities are available on our website, under curriculum:  SkillsTutor and CRCT Online Assessment System.  Login information is available from your teachers. 
As we approach the finish line for the last nine week grading period, here are a few reminders. 

• The dress code exists for the duration of the school year.  It does not change based on weather or fashion trends.  Our students do a great job of adhering to these expectations.  Let’s keep it up!
• Continue to check teacher blogs and our website for critical communications.
• We are actively seeking parent involvement via PTSA and/or School Council.  The election process is underway for leadership in these organizations.  Please consider taking part.
• The calendar is filled with a wide variety of opportunities which showcase the talents of our students.  Check our website for details on the talent show, concerts, field days, the film festival, the eighth grade dance, a musical production of “Oklahoma”, and more!  Come join us and share the Mabry pride!
  

Sincerely,

 

Merrilee Heflin, Principal