In this section, you will find information about our upcoming State Testing, games to help prepare you for the technology skills needed to test, and opportunities for the practice test!

Last week, we shared a list of technology skills required for the test. This week, we have something fun! Let's hear from our own VO parent educator, Claire Clay, who shared her thoughts on the State testing at our last Parent Educator workshop!

After the video, Claire shared that in the past few years she has realized that testing is more than her feelings about standardized testing. Despite her feelings, she came to the conclusion that she has to prepare her children for testing as they will have to participate in standardized tests throughout their lives. She said it was funny that she was sharing the benefits of standardized testing at the workshop as she used to be a parent who was so against it! :) As a nurse, her training and promotion often comes in the form of standardized tests, and that is part of what changed her mind about preparing her kids for such tests. In addition, she uses CAASPP practice books to teach her children how and why the questions are asked as they are, because she believes that it's "more than just showing up", it's also about kids doing their best!

We're so grateful that she was brave enough to share at the workshop and that others were inspired by what she shared. Thank you, Claire!

Watch the video below and enjoy!

AS YOU KNOW, OUR STATE TESTING REQUIRES STUDENTS TO TYPE IN RESPONSES.

Here are some fun resources to help your children learn to type and practice now so they'll acquire a great new skill and will be ready in the Spring!

For Lower Grades:

• Dance Mat Typing

• ABC Ya Typing

For Upper Grades:

• Typing Club

Check this CAASPP Corner out weekly for more information!

Dana Moran has created a classroom with so many resources for you as you prepare to graduate and beyond! Seniors and parents of Seniors, please click the link below to join.

• Seniors, now is the time to complete the FAFSA. The application window opened on October 1, and it is best practice to complete this ASAP and not wait until the application window closes.
• All seniors need to complete this application.
• Go to this website to find out the steps to complete the FAFSA

To pre-order your 2022-2023 hardcover yearbook for $30, please use this link below. The yearbook will be 100 pages and include most school events and a senior section.Thanks for your support of our Publications class!

The Oak Room is open:

Monday: 8:30-3:30 (Closed for lunch supervision from 11:30-12:05)

Tuesday: 8:30-3:30 (May be closed for lunch supervision from 11:50-12:10)

Wednesday: 8:30-3:30 (May be closed for lunch supervision from 11:50-12:10)

Thursday: 8:30-3:30 (May be closed for lunch supervision from 11:50-12:10)

Friday: 8:30-3:00 (Closed for lunch supervision from 11:30-12:05)

Megan, Tina, and/or Cyrina are the ones who provide lunch supervision each day, so if a staff member isn't in the Oak Room, it will be closed.

If you are on campus and need into the Oak room, we will let you in at the end of lunch. If you need to speak with one of us during closed times, you will find us out at the lunch tables.

Due to the severity of allergies of several students, tree nuts or peanuts are not allowed on campus. If your child brings items with nuts, they will not be able to eat them while at school. Thank you for your support in keeping our community safe.

In order to receive text messages from the school, simply text "yes" to 67587. We use this system for important reminders or emergencies only.

Vista Oaks has updated its School Accountability Report Card. The report is available on the Vista Oaks' website. You are also welcome to request a printed copy be provided to you by reaching out to the school office

When parking on campus, all Vista Oaks staff and families must park in the Excelsior Middle School parking lot.

We are not allowed to park in the lots in front of our school as those are designated for the Byron District Office staff.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation!