Mac El Weekly News
Week of December 13 - last one for 2024!
From the Principal
Even amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, our amazing students continue to shine! They've been diligently working on their benchmarks and taking the iReady mid-year diagnostic, and we're thrilled to see their growth and progress.
Please take a moment to ask your child about their progress and what they are learning. A little encouragement can go a long way! Remind them that their hard work is paying off and to keep up the fantastic effort.
As we gear up for the holiday break, we encourage students to continue exploring the world of books. Whether they're reading independently or enjoying a story read aloud, reading is a wonderful way to spark imagination and learn new things.
From all of us at Mac El, we wish you a joyous holiday season filled with love, laughter, and lots of fun! We can't wait to see what 2025 brings.
๐ Mark your Calendar
Dec. 9 - iReady Mid-Year Diagnostic Begins
Dec. 16 - 20 - December Dress Up Days
Dec. 20 - End of 2nd 9 weeks
Dec. 21 - Jan. 3 - Winter Break
Jan. 6 - Return to school
Jan. 10 - Report Cards
December Dress Up Days
Terrific Thursday Celebration
BINGO
A big shoutout to all the students who earned Terrific Thursday last week! Our staff and volunteers had a blast celebrating with you all. Bingo and popcorn? What a perfect way to reward hard work and good behavior! Keep up the great work, everyone!
High Ability Identification
All 2nd and 5th grade students will be administered the CogAT (Cognitive Abilities Test) as the initial screener in the High Ability identification process. If your child is in 3rd or 4th grade, not already identified as High Ability, and you would like them to be screened, please email Mrs. Tidd at tidds@maconaquah.k12.in.us with an explanation as to why you feel they should be tested by January 17.
If you have questions regarding high ability, the High Ability Program Description is available on the Maconaquah website under parent resources.
Attendance
Regular attendance is crucial for studentsโ academic success. When students miss school, they often miss important lessons, assignments, and opportunities for interaction with their classmates and teachers. This can lead to falling behind in their studies and feeling discouraged. Itโs essential for students to attend school consistently to build a strong foundation for their education and future goals.
If your child will not be at school, you must leave the reason for your child's absence when calling into the attendance line. Thank you!
From the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE)
Free Tutoring
Enrollment is now open for Indiana Learns through Friday, December 20. This is a free tutoring opportunity that thousands of Indiana students and families are already taking advantage of, in partnership with educators and schools across the state.
In 2022 IDOE launched Indiana Learns after hearing from parents and families, as well as educators, about the significant need for high-dosage tutoring opportunities for students. At the time, we heard from parents who shared that they knew their child was struggling academically, yet they simply did not have the extra money for additional tutoring. Through Indiana Learns, students who qualify for free or reduced lunch and are below proficiency in math and reading are able to access $1,000, which can be applied directly to additional high-dosage tutoring for their child.
Here are some quick facts about Indiana Learns:
- Indiana Learns Goals:
- Maximize collaboration between our educators, families, and community partners
- Provide additional, high-dosage tutoring for students who need it most
- Compensate our teachers for the additional after-school tutoring that many already provide
- Indiana Learns Impact:
- Over 20,000 students have enrolled, and nearly 180,000 hours of tutoring have been provided.
- Early data shows the greatest impact in math, with students who are highly engaged in Indiana Learns showing the greatest academic gains.
- Indiana Learns Eligibility:
- Enrollment is now open through Friday, December 20.
- Interested families can visit IndianaLearns.org to check if their child is eligible. If eligible, families will immediately be able to view available funds, as well as local learning partners, and schedule approved services.
- Schools and families with questions can reach out to the Indiana Learns team by emailing info@indianalearns.org.
Substitute Teachers Needed - Apply now!
Are you looking for a flexible way to give back to your community while earning extra income? Consider becoming a substitute teacher at Maconaquah Elementary! As a substitute, you'll have the opportunity to make a positive impact on students' lives, while enjoying a rewarding and fulfilling experience. With a variety of schedules available, substitute teaching is a great option for parents who want to balance work and family life. Join our team today and help shape the future of our students!
๐ Weekly Breakfast and Lunch Menu
๐ Braves of the Week
2nd Grade: Connor Howard
Connor was nominated for Brave of the Week because I am so proud of the hardwork and effort he put into his Iready diagnostic tests this week. He is working hard to keep growing in his academics. Connor is also a great example of Brave behavior, he is kind to all those around him, he is polite and respectful, and he always brings a smile with him to class to share with those around him. Great job Connor!
3rd Grade: Gabriella Silvers
Gabby is a perfect example of what it means to be a Brave. She comes to school each day with a smile on her face and eager to learn. She is respectful, kind, helpful, and hard-working. Her motivation to excel shows daily in her work. She has grown so much already this year, and I canโt wait to see her growth continue to increase. Besides all of her academic successes, she is an excellent artist and has a great sense of humor. I am very proud of her!
4th Grade: Caitlyn Beebe
5th Grade: Aras Williams
Aras is a great asset to our class. He is helpful and diligent about task completion, which makes him a good example for others. Aras is always willing to help in any way he can. He has a smile to share with everyone. These are some of the many reasons that Aras is an asset to our class.