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The
School Year--What Happens Between August and May?
Adrian H. Cline, Superintendent
August 3, 2004
Children begin to exhibit a certain restlessness by the end of July. They have grown
weary of their summer activities and even their best friends and are ready
for school.
Once the anticipation of the
first day of school has passed, students, teachers, and parents settle into
a routine, characteristic of the school year. The rhyme and meter that
develops between August and May is the steady heartbeat of education.
The educational calendar
divides the year into segments, each with benchmarks for measuring student
progress. These segments are also subdivided to allow for progress reports
or student conferences that inform parents about how their child is doing.
These mini-glimpses give parents and students a chance to address any
deficiencies, while affording students additional opportunities to succeed.
The start of school includes
an organized review for students, preliminary testing, and student
observation. Teachers spend the first few days of school reviewing records
and orienting students, while gaining valuable insight into individual
needs. The curriculum is introduced, and students begin the learning
process quickly. We have no time to
waste.
It is not long before the
first report cards are tabulated.
With the end of daylight-saving time comes a nip in the air that
indicates that the athletic season is in full swing.
Before the next progress
reports are due, Thanksgiving arrives and students gear up for the winter
holidays. School fine arts programs focus on these special days and draw
from them various themes for many of their activities.
Instruction continues after
the new year, and students are active on indoor courts. Soon, students begin taking the Florida
Comprehensive Assessment Tests required by the State of Florida. These tests measure what
students know and compare this knowledge to that of their peers across the
state.
Spring brings a return to
the outdoors. Spring break provides relief from studies before teachers
begin final assessments.
During the last few weeks,
schools hold celebrations which include award presentations, promotion
ceremonies, prom and, of course, graduation. The year then concludes,
bringing a sense of achievement for both students and staff.
The rhythm of the school
year is unique. It is fast-paced: packed with learning, growth, and
feelings of accomplishment. It sets the tempo for education. For educators
and parents alike, it is always astonishing to notice and reflect upon just
how much students have grown in the short period between August and May.
Please contact your school to find out how you can help facilitate this
growth and ensure a successful school year for all involved.
Parenting Tips
- Be ready--gather materials required for your
child's classes in advance.
- Promptly complete and return all forms sent home
by the school. If questions or concerns arise, talk to your child's
teacher.
- Plan a routine to aid success in school.
Establish a time for homework, a regular bedtime for younger children, and a curfew for older students.
- Participate in parent-teacher conferences.
- Enjoy the school year--it passes all too quickly.
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