Cracker Trail Elementary Newsletter
April 2023
From the Principal
Dear Mustang Parents & Guardians,
As we charge into the last nine weeks of school with full steam, please keep in mind we are working hard to “round up” everything as our school year comes to an end. F.A.S.T. testing dates are fast approaching for 3rd, 4th, & 5th grade students. S.T.A.R. testing dates are upcoming for K, 1st, and 2nd. Testing time can be stressful for students and parents. Some testing day tips include eating a nutritious breakfast, get a good night’s rest, and arrive at school on time. We ask everyone to DO THEIR BEST. Please join us in encouraging the same. Remind your child it is time for them to show what they know!
We want to thank everyone for participating in our Science Night and A “Maze” ing Art Show. Our cafeteria was filled with the hard work of our 5th grade students and our grade levels led some pretty interesting hands-on activities outside for families to enjoy. We closed last month with our Spring parent/teacher conferences. Thank you for meeting with teachers – we team with the best community of parents, guardians, and caregivers in our district.
Last month CTE lost a bright “light” on our campus. Mrs. Martha Oliveras had been a Mustang for four years, working individually with one of our students. With Martha’s passing, she has left a legacy of joy, positivity, and compassion. Thank you, Martha, for your dedication and selflessness. You are missed. Hold on tight because this year is about to end! Keep your eyes open for more information about state testing, end of the year activities, and awards. We look forward to seeing you in person for awards this year!
Respectfully,
Mr. K.
Tardy Students
Parents,
We have had a significant number of tardies since Spring Break. School begins at 7:30 a.m. and students need to be in their classroom ready to work by this time. Classroom directions and instructions for the school day are usually given by the teacher at the beginning of the day - if your child is not present for those instructions, the academic progress could be delayed.
In addition, students coming into the classroom late can be disruptive to the entire class, and take longer to get settled. It is important to establish good habits, like timeliness, which is vital to the success of your child. Please ensure that your child arrives to school on time every day. Remember, every five tardies equals one unexcused absence.
Testing Information
April & May Testing Dates
Kindergarten
4/18 S.T.A.R. Reading
4/25 S.T.A.R. Math
1st Grade
4/18 S.T.A.R. Lewis’ Class
4/19 S.T.A.R. Reading
4/26 S.T.A.R. Math
2nd Grade
4/20 S.T.A.R. Reading
4/27 S.T.A.R. Math
3rd Grade
5/3 F.A.S.T. Reading
5/9 F.A.S.T. Math
5/11 SAT 10
4th Grade
5/3 F.A.S.T. Rowe’s Class (Reading)
5/4 F.A.S.T. Reading
5/10 F.A.S.T. Math
5th Grade
5/2 F.A.S.T. Reading
5/4 F.A.S.T. Math
5/11 Science Session 1
5/12 Science Session 2
Testing Notes
- Student scores will be available in the Florida Reporting System after testing. The link to FRS is available through Skyward Family Access.
- Proctors are still needed for May testing dates. If anyone is interested in volunteering as a test proctor please contact Tara Lee at 863-471-5777 or leet4@highlands.k12.fl.us.
- Students who will test in an accommodation group might test on a different date. If the date is different than when the grade level is testing, the teacher will communicate the testing date.
Important Dates
4/7 No School
4/14 Girl Scouts Meeting
4/14 5th Grade Middle School Orientation Field Trip
4/21 Hat Day $1
4/27 Talent Show 5 p.m.
4/28 Progress Reports Go Home
4/28 PE Snow Cone Day $2
4/28 Girl Scouts Meeting 2 p.m.