It's FCAT Time!

It's FCAT Time again! As we edge closer to FCAT testing dates, there are some important things that PARENTS can do to help their children. Here are some tips:

• Students need to be at school each and every day! Did you know that coming in tardy (even 10 minutes) disrupts learning for EVERY child in that class?
• Review their homework each and every night. As a parent, I realize how tired we must feel at the end of the day. However, when skills are not practiced and reinforced, they are lost. Just doing homework each night helps to reinforce these skills with your child.
• Keep in communication with your child's teacher. By working together as a team, you will see great progress in your child's learning. He/She can suggest ways to prepare for the tests.
• Visit the public library! Go to the library on a regular basis. Find reading material that can help support reading instruction in the classroom. Practice the reading skills and strategies that your child is learning in class. For example, if the class is working on Main Idea, then let's find some books and find the Main Idea together.
• Use the electronic resources at your fingertips. FCAT Explorer is a great tool that students can use. Each student has their own username and password. If you do not know what it is, please contact your child's teacher to get it. Our school's webpage also has a link for "Web Resources" that you can do at home. Just visit: www.duvalschools.org/donbrewer
• Provide a good breakfast. Did you know that protein is BRAIN FOOD? Foods like peanut butter, eggs, and cheese are good for the body and the mind. These are easy foods to put together, but make a big difference. Remember...sound mind, sound body!
• Finally, look forward to the test. That's right! You and your child have worked very hard and now it is "Time to Shine". We encourage our students to 'show what they know'. The children have been exposed to everything they need to be successful. All they have to do know is do their best.

In May, we can look back and enjoy the fruits of our labor. Celebrate the accomplishments of our students. Thank you for ALL that you do to help make our school a place "Where Great Minds Grow and Students Bloom"!