Wow! one semester is already behind us. We have another 1/2 of year to go. I just want to say thank you to everyone, students, parents, staff and community, for your partnership in providing your students with a safe and educational school experience.

We just completed our 2nd round of Math Benchmark Assessments. The data we get back from these assessments will be reviewed by our staff and compared to the data around instructional practice. The purpose is for us to get continuous feedback on how students are doing and what we as instructional staff can do to deliver instruction effectively. This being the first year we continue to trouble shoot the logistics of implementing this assessment. As a school we will give critical feedback to our district office in order to assist in making this experience effective and efficient for students and staff.

This spring we will also be giving the MAP (Measure of Academic Progress) test in both math and reading. This test is administered 3 times per year. Again this is an assessment for us to monitor the progress of students as we progress through the year.

The WASL test has been replaced by the MSP (Measure of Student Progress). This test will be administered during the 2nd half of May. More information will be sent to you around preparation for this exam.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS: The science fair is going to be held on February 10, 2010. All students at Mann have had the privilege of taking part in the science fair experience. This has been an ongoing assignment in their science classes. If you have any questions re: the science fair please contact your student's science teacher.

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I would like to take a moment to welcome:

Genevieve Lee: our new PTSA President. Ms. Lee is very excited about her new role. She has extended an invitation to all parents to join the Mann PTSA. The PTSA will be planning and hosting the 8th grade end of year dance. 8th grade parents, please get involved in this once in a life time event for you students. You can leave messages for Genevieve in the PTSA mail box located in the Main Office. Thank you Genevieve!

Marika Richards: our new Military Family Life Consultant. Ms. Richards has come to Mann and "hit the ground running". She has worked with individual students, she has worked with some teachers, and has a deployment group available to all students during lunch times. Thank yo Ms. Richards!
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Parents: please take a moment to review the Mann M.S. behavior expectations with your students. These are located in your student's agenda. There is also a power point of the behavior expectations posted on our Mann Website under Parent Resources. It is important to review these expectations regularly with your students. Please focus on horseplay, bully/harassment, electronic devices and dress code expectations. I truly appreciate your partnership in this area.

Remember, don't wait to talk with your student's teachers. Early intervention is the best intervention. If you suspect that your student is struggling in a class give that teacher a call and/or call the guidance office to speak to your students counselor at 253-583-5449 re: setting up an appt. with a teacher(s).