Kelley A. Nosel                                                               Sean P. O’Shea
   Principal                                                                      Assistant Principal

January 2, 2008

Dear Parents/Guardians:

The Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) was implemented in 1998 in response to the Education Reform Act of 1993.  MCAS requires the testing of all public school students at identified grades across the Commonwealth, including students with disabilities or limited English proficiency.  MCAS tests the learning standards which are contained in the state Curriculum Frameworks for each discipline.  The tests are un-timed and contain multiple choice, short answers, and open response questions.  There is also a long composition for students in grade 4.  For the long composition, students are given a writing prompt for which they write a rough draft in session one, followed by a short break, and then a final draft in session two, on which they will be scored.  Both sessions are completed on the same day according to DOE protocol.

For two weeks in March, (see reverse side for specifics) your child will be taking the MCAS test(s) associated with his/her grade level.  The MCAS is a state requirement.  Any child who does not take the test or the make up test will receive a failing grade as reported by the state on this assessment.   The results of this assessment are used to determine areas in the curriculum that children are proficient.  The school and District also use the assessment results to fine tune instruction and provide additional academic support.

To ensure that your child performs his/her best, it is important that your child be rested and healthy.  Some areas in which you may assist your child include: 

• Try to ensure a solid night’s sleep prior to the test session
• Encourage your child to eat a light, healthy breakfast prior to the test sessions
• Have them dress comfortably
• Encourage them to do well while providing praise and support

Timely arrival at school is always a great way to begin any day, but especially during the testing period.  Students who arrive at school after 9:15 AM will not be permitted to participate in that day’s testing.  They will be kept in the office or library until testing is complete and they will be scheduled for a make-up session. 

As always working together to provide guidance and support benefits all members of the school community.  If you have any questions or concerns, please contact either your child’s teacher, or me.

Sincerely,

Kelley A. Nosel
Principal

Improving the citizens of tomorrow by learning and growing today.
2008 Glenwood MCAS Testing Schedule

Grade 3

Grade 4

Grade 5