Click here to read this letter in Spanish
Dear Ottiwell Families,
In April and May, Alma scholars in 3rd through 8th grade will take the state administered Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) exams in Literacy, Math, Science, and Civics. Only 5th and 8th grade scholars will take the Science exams. Only 8th grade scholars will take the Civics exam.
These exams help the state and the school measure our progress towards making sure every scholar is learning. The exams check whether scholars know and can do the most important thinking and skills for these subjects and grades. We use them to make sure all scholars are on the path to high school and college.
We ask our families to . . .
- Make sure your scholar is on time and in attendance everyday – missed exams must be made up, so please avoid scheduling appointments or trips that would prevent your scholar from attending school on these days.
- Make sure your scholar is well rested each day, getting 8-10 hours of sleep the night before, and that they eat a nutritious breakfast in the morning.
- Wish your scholar well and encourage them to do their best!
- Let your scholar’s campus front desk know if you’re interested in serving as a hallway monitor during MCAS testing. We are always looking for a few more parents/guardians to help out in this way!
If you have any questions or concerns about the MCAS test, please feel free to contact the school