Last year the state replaced the FCAT with the revised “FCAT2.0”, which assesses Florida’s updated Next Generation Sunshine State Standards.  During the first year of administration, the new test was scored using the original FCAT scale – a new scale could not be developed until the first “baseline” year of the new test was given.  Throughout the second half of 2011, the Florida Department of Education developed the new scale that will be used to score the FCAT 2.0  The State Board of Education has recently approved this new scale for use in scoring the 2011-12 FCAT 2.0. The new scale is built around much more rigorous standards and higher expectations for students – particularly in the elementary and middle grade levels.

Our district’s Benchmark Assessment Test is designed to provide diagnostic and predictive information regarding a student’s preparedness for the FCAT 2.0.  The September BAT 1 test was scored and equated using the original FCAT scale, since the State Board had not determined the new FCAT 2.0 scale.  Because standards and expectations are much higher on the FCAT 2.0 scale, some students’ predicted to be FCAT – ready (proficient) on BAT 1 may not be predicted FCAT ready on BAT 2.  We must prepare our students for the new, more rigorous expectations associated with FCAT 2.0. 

To this end we would ask that you assist us with this important task.  Your assistance is needed regardless of your child’s grade level.  You can help your child increase his/her success by engaging them in the reading process.  This can be done by making sure that you read to your child, read with your child, and provide time for your child to read independently.

Additionally, use the attached questions to assess their comprehension.  These activities will go a long way to help develop mastery.

Have a great week.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS: IT'S CARNIVAL TIME!
The 11th Annual Silver Ridge Winter Carnival will be held on
Saturday, February 4, 2012 from 11:00 am to 4:00pm.
Enjoy rides, games, raffles, great food and special performers.

WE NEED YOUR HELP
Many of you have responded to our request to volunteer on the
day of the carnival, to bake for our bake sale and cake walk, to
send in items for our raffle baskets and donate specialty items
for the auction – but we are falling short of our goals.  We ask that you send in your forms as soon as possible.
PRE-SALE STUDENT WRISTBANDS AND TICKET ORDER FORMS
Forms went home with students last week.  Wristband prices
will be $14.00 (all inclusive for rides and game booths). The
price for the bands will be $16.00 at the door. Children 2 years
and under, and adults do not need to purchase wristbands. 
Sorry, there will be no refunds.
“BOOK SWAP” SPONSORED BY THE MEDIA CENTER
Ms. Aaron will be hosting a “Book Swap” program  the day of the carnival. We ask that “Gently Used Books” are brought in
(please limit donations to 10 books maximum per student)
These may be young children, teen and appropriate adult books. Please start bringing the books in this week.
IN CLOSING
Although the carnival is a fundraiser, it is also a fun filled event that
brings together the entire Silver Ridge community of students,
families, and Silver Ridge staff..
Thank you for your support….Hope to see you all there! 
If you have any questions, please contact me: Ana English at
(954)476-0550 or (786)-295-0838 

Did you know we received over $1300 last month from Box Tops 4 Education?  Imagine all the new materials that can be purchased for the Media Center, from coupons you have clipped from empty boxes and cans!  Thanks for cutting, counting and collecting!  We have another submission coming up soon so please send those box tops in to your child's teacher. 

The Broward County Association of Media Specialists (BCAMS) is hosting a meet and greet on February 1st, from 5:00-6:00 pm at Virginia Schuman Young Elementary in Fort Lauderdale.  This is a showcase of the importance and impact of strong school library programs.  Light refreshments will be served.  Please contact Elaine Aaron if you are interested in attending.  She will gladly forward your RSVP.

FCAT EXPLORER
We are encouraging all of our third, fourth and fifth grade students to begin practicing on FCAT Explorer.  When students complete FCAT Explorer with 80% accuracy they will appear on TV, get a free ice cream pass and be allowed to be out of uniform every Tuesday until the FCAT.  They will also have their name posted on our FCAT Test Buster board.

SUPERINTENDENT ROBERT RUNCIE COMMUNITY TOUR
Broward Schools Superintendent Robert W. Runcie continues his "listening tour" sessions to hear from parents and community members. The "listening tour" is part of the new superintendent's plan to encourage parents and community members to become involved in Broward County Public Schools and take an active role in improving student achievement and performance. The perspectives, experiences, opinions and concerns expressed by parents and community members will be used in developing the next District Strategic Plan.



Following are future "listening tour" stops. The public is invited. All sessions will begin at 6:30 p.m.:

• Thursday, February 9 at Hollywood Hills High School, 5400 Stirling Rd., Hollywood

Download more Information and dates

We are fortunate to be at a school that continuously seeks ways to improve our students’ education and classroom experiences and to have such involved and generous parents that support these efforts.  But, it doesn’t stop there!  Our school and parents do an incredible amount to support the community with the food drives, toys for tots, $1 donation for the needy, jump-rope for heart, etc.  The fun events such as the Fall Festival, the Holiday Shop, the Winter Carnival, Barnes and Noble night help boost morale and bring our students, parents and staff together to build the strong school community that we are all proud to be part of.  

Thank you again for your support!

The Fun Run Committee