Dear Franklin Families,

Thank you all who came out to run and support us in our Franklin ‘Be the Change’ Team running to support the nonprofit, Upward Bound, last Sunday that provides temporary housing and support services to homeless families – we rocked it sweating and cheering each other on! I am also excited to share that our amazing 10 Franklin Chess Club finalists went on to compete and won the inter-5-school tournament last Saturday – hooray Franklin Bolt Chess champions!  

3rd- 5th Grade Testing Starts Next Week- May 4

There are many ways to measure your child’s learning. Your child’s teacher uses report card grades, classroom work, teacher observations, and end-of-year statewide test results to get a complete picture of your child’s learning. Each year, students participate in the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP). Your child will take the following tests, depending on their grade level or instructional program:

• Smarter Balanced Summative Assessments for English language arts and math, required tests in grades 3–8 and 11. If indicated on your child’s individualized education program (IEP), the California Alternate Assessments (CAAs) will be administered for English language arts and math, required tests in grades 3–8 and 11.

• California Science Test (CAST), a required test in grades 5 and 8 and once in high school, grade 11. If indicated on your child’s individualized education program, or IEP, the California Alternate Assessment for Science will be administered. This test will be given throughout the year as the science lessons are taught. Your child will be tested one-on-one by their teacher during the times that will allow your child to do their best.

The testing schedule is listed below:

Grades 3-5, English Language Arts (ELA) Test, May 4-May 8

Grades 3-5, Math Test, May 11-May 15

Grades 3-5, Makeup Days, May 18-May 22

Grade 5 ONLY, California Science Test (CAST), May 18 - May 22

You are an important part of your child’s education. To make sure your child feels comfortable taking the tests, you can do the following:

• Explain to your child that these tests are used as tools to help them learn, and that they should not be anxious or scared.

• Remind your child that you and their teacher want them to try their very best and are there to help, every step of the way.

• Help your student get a good night's sleep and eat a healthy breakfast.

Fondly, 
Natalie R. Burton