About AK STAR
The Alaska System of Academic Readiness (AK STAR) and the Alaska Science Assessment are computer-based assessments administered to students in Grades 3-9 (English language arts and mathematics) and grades 5, 8 and 10 (science) each spring during the state-designated testing window. AK STAR and the Alaska Science Assessment are state-required assessments that provide students with the opportunity to show their understanding of important skills in these content areas at their grade level. More information can be found at: https://www.asdk12.org/AKSTAR.
The Alaska Science Assessment will be administered to the 5th graders at Birchwood ABC during the week of March 27. The AK STAR assessment will be provided to students in grade 3-5 during the week of April 3. A more specific schedule will be available the week of March 20.
School Climate and Connectedness Survey
Birchwood ABC ES is partnering again this year with the Association of Alaska School Boards to conduct the School Climate and Connectedness Survey, a statewide survey taken by students, staff, and families. This survey measures their perceptions of each school’s climate including the engagement of students, staff, and families.
We value input from our families. You are an important partner as we work to continually improve each school’s environment. The survey window is currently open until March 24, 2023. Each parent/guardian is asked to complete one survey. If you have more than one child attending this school, you only need to fill out one survey. Please use the following link to access the family survey:
https://surveys.panoramaed.com/aasb/asdfamily
During the month of March students and staff will also have the opportunity to provide their input. The Student Survey will be given to students in grades 3-5. Students will complete the survey online during the school day.
The student survey will ask questions such as how students feel about school rules, their perceptions of how students treat each other, their relationships with staff, social and emotional skills, and observed risk behaviors of other students at school and school events.
The surveys are voluntary, anonymous, confidential, and do not ask questions about students’ families. If you do not wish for your child to participate, please notify the school in writing.
More information on this survey is available through the following link: https://www.asdk12.org/Page/4323.
Results from this survey will be used to identify student, staff and family perceptions of school climate issues within our school. School staff use the results to inform their efforts to ensure schools are safe, supportive, and caring places for all students.
Thank you for your cooperation in this year’s School Climate and Connectedness Survey.
