LMS Counseling News
Winter 2015
The PARCC Test: A Q&A for Parents
Parents,
Many of you have heard teachers and students discussing our new statewide assessment, PARCC (Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers). As with any new program, we understand that you and your child may have anxiety or concerns. We, here at Lonoke Middle School, we you to know that we are here to work alongside you and your child throughout this new process. So, here is a little bit of information that might help answer some of your questions.
After being field-tested in 7th grade Mathematics and Algebra I last year, the new online PARCC test will be rolled out to students across Arkansas this spring. The PARCC test is aligned to the Common Core State Standards and features interactive questions to assess critical thinking skills. To ensure that you have the information you need to prepare your child for the test, we have compiled the following lists of frequently asked questions.
??? WHAT SUBJECTS DOES PARCC COVER? PARCC tests will assess English Language Arts and Math.
??? DOES PARCC REPLACE BENCHMARK TESTS? The PARCC assessment will replace the prior statewide assessment, the Augmented Benchmark exam. PARCC was developed in response to the longstanding concerns of educators, parents and employers who want assessments that better measure students' critical thinking and problem solving skills and their ability to communicate clearly. PLEASE NOTE: 7th Grade Students will continue to take the Benchmark exam this year for SCIENCE ONLY.
??? WHEN WILL THE PARCC TEST BE ADMINISTERED
Winter Break
LMS Parent Literacy Night
Thursday, Jan 15, 2015, 06:00 PM
Lonoke Middle School
Coffee & Chats with the Counselor
Friday, Jan 16, 2015, 08:00 AM
LMS Media Center
Keep Your Holidays Stress Free!
Families want their holidays to be happy for everyone, but this season can sometimes be a time of chaos and stress for kids and parents. It is important to remember that both children and parents need time to relax. Here are some ways to reduce stress during the holidays:
1. Remember routines. When a routine is broken, stress can result.
2. Say "No". You don't have to accept every invitation to parties and events. Prioritize and reduce.
3. Nutrition. Have you ever noticed the lines at fast food restaurants during the holiday season? The lines are longer because people are too busy to cook and eat at home. Take the time to talk and enjoy time with your family over a table of nutritious food.
4. Rest and relaxation. Everyone needs to take a "time out" to rest and relax. Be sure to schedule this into your holiday schedule.
5. Laugh. Lighten the mood with funny movies or fun activities for the entire family.