A Message from Al
Harper:
A few weeks ago, we celebrated the closure of another successful school year. We attended moving up ceremonies, bid farewell, and extended our wishes of health, happiness, and success to our graduates and retirees as they begin the next chapters of their lives.
Summer is a time for reflection. Our students, faculty, and staff met the challenges of the 2009-2010 school years. Each and every day, I observe the creativity and determination of our school staff as they work to address the needs of our children. As I visit each school throughout the year, I am convinced that our building teams are making a positive difference. They are answering an important calling to educate children to lead successful and productive lives.
Over 800 children are attending our summer programs designed to promote 21st century learning skills and academic support and enrichment throughout the summer months.The READ 180 Program, a scientifically researched based program, has been successfully implemented in our Academic Summer School, and teachers are working in teams to deliver intensive instruction in English Language Arts, Social Studies, Math and Science.
Over 300 students are enrolled in our Summer Enrichment Academy. Students are challenged to create, innovate, problem-solve, and think at a high level. Participation in Model United Nations, Science Research, Robotics, Architecture, Environmental Science, World Languages, and the Visual and Performing Arts will develop and enhance the skills required for future achievement and leadership.
The Extended School Year and SKIP Programs provide exciting opportunities for students to progress academically and socialize with students across the District. Our goal is to educate the whole child by meeting their intellectual, social, emotional and physical needs throughout the summer months.
The Board of Regents directed the New York State Education Department to redesign the Grades 3-8 English Language Arts and Mathematics Tests. The new assessments will cover a broader range of content performance indicators. In order to accomplish this, the Department has made changes to the format of the testing program, lengthened the amount of time each test will take, and changed the administration dates to later in the academic year.
To assist districts in planning for the upcoming school year, the New York State Education Department provided information on the revised specifications for the Grades 3-8 tests. This information includes the approximate number and types of questions by grade and section, the approximate percentage of questions assessing each standard, and the format of each test. A team of Elmont teachers are reviewing and revising the Elmont Math Curriculum Map this summer.
On behalf of the Board of Education, I would like to thank the Elmont community for your continuous support. The Elmont School District continues to thrive and grow. We continue to believe in the tremendous potential of our students. I wish you a restful, healthy, and joyful summer. I hope the warm days of summer are filled with many great books and memorable moments. I look forward to welcoming you back to school in September.
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