Dear PVMS Families,
April is upon us and with that comes warmer weather, showers, and flowers and trees start to bloom. I’m hopeful that we have more sunshine than showers, as our children
benefit greatly from being outside. This is imperative during times like this for everyone’s social and emotional health. We miss your child(ren) more than ever!
Partnership:
We can’t thank you enough for partnering with us through these times of social distancing and isolation. Many of you are trying to work from home, feed your children, and ensure that their education is continuing. We know that this isn’t easy! There are a few things to consider during times like this. As we come to terms with a new normal and move through a time of virtual learning, we hope that you are doing well and have found a balance of academic, emotional, social, and health needs of you and your family. We miss seeing your child(ren) each and every day. Our teachers and staff also miss their normal, daily routine with your child(ren). Staying connected is the best way for us to navigate these unprecedented times. Together we are stronger!
Grading:
When it comes to turning in work and grading, please know that we are flexible. Everyday is different and we should do our best to create consistent schedules for our children but know that this isn’t always reality. Teachers will be marking assignments for completion and/or provide feedback to keep on track with curriculum needs. Please contact teachers if your child is having difficulty and may need more support. We want to make sure that everyone’s needs have been met and we want to be able to support you in any way possible.
Creating An At Home Schedule:
This assignment chart can help children and parents keep track of work and assignment due dates. This is an editable document, feel free to change it to fit your needs. The blue colored section at the top is an example. Assignment Organization Chart
Enrichment Opportunities:
- Looking for a little culture and change of pace? Explore museums around the world at Google Arts and Culture.
- Looking to help your child find some inspiration? Visit TED Talks by brilliant kids and teens.
New York State Exams:
NYS has suspended all K-8 state exams. This suspension for the remainder of the school year applies to the following State testing programs:
- New York State Grades 3-8 English Language Arts Tests
- New York State Grades 3-8 Mathematics Tests
- New York State Grade 8 Intermediate-Level Science Test
- New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test (NYSESLAT) in Grades K-12
- New York State Alternate Assessment (NYSAA) for students with severe cognitive disabilities in Grades 3-8 and high school
Course Selection:
This month, sixth grade families will be receiving a communication with an electronic form to fill out with regard to their foreign language choice (Mandarin Chinese or Spanish) for their upcoming school year. Please take the time to watch the presentation and reach out to Ms. Coleman at kcoleman@pvcsd.org with any questions regarding these options. In addition, eighth grade families will receive a presentation regarding course selection options for their children with regard to their future ninth graders. Complete the electronic form with regard to course selection. Please watch these presentations carefully and reach out to the proper school counselors at the high school with any questions.
Key Dates:
Know that all items and events that had originally been scheduled have been postponed indefinitely. We will reassess our situation once we have a better idea of a return date. To date, our schools are closed through April 15th.
Spring Break will take place from Monday, 4/6/20 – Monday, 4/13/20. School (remote learning) will resume on Tuesday, 4/14/19.
Stay Connected:
During these times of remote learning it is our hope to stay connected and a nice way of doing this is through our themed Wednesdays and PVMS Tiger PRIDE Fridays. You will receive weekly communications as to what our themes will be, so please share your pictures with us, as this is a nice way to see one another. Please click here to upload your photos and thank you for your participation.
Please reach out to us at any time as we are all in this together. Our administration, teachers, and staff want what’s best for your children. The best way to persevere through these times is to work together through communication. Continue to practice healthy habits in social distancing and washing your hands and may you and your families stay healthy.
Sincerely,
Travis W. McCarty
Principal