What a busy week it’s been! We’re so proud of our students for adjusting to the return from fall break, tackling ILEARN Checkpoint practice tests, and celebrating Halloween with our dress up day and parade. We know it’s been a lot to juggle, and they worked hard this week. I'm sure they’re ready to relax and recharge over the weekend. The good news is that we get to set our clocks back an hour on Sunday!

November is off and running as Monday and Tuesday will be the first ILEARN Checkpoint test for students in grades three through five. We expect to get data back quickly following the test to use to guide instruction for our students. This information will also shared with parents, see below. Hopefully, the extra hour of sleep will help them to be alert and ready for their return to school on Monday.

Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday. Make sure to turn your clocks back one hour to enjoy that extra hour of sleep!

Nov. 3 - Daylight Saving Time Ends - Turn clocks back one hour

Nov. 5 - ELA ILEARN Checkpoint Testing

Nov. 8 - Veteran's day Music Program Practice (Gr. 2 & 3)

• 9:00 - 9:45 am - 2nd grade practice at the high school
• 10:00 - 10:45 am - 3rd grade practice at the high school

• 9:30 am - 10:30 am - 2nd grade
• 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm - 3rd grade

Nov. 27 - 29 - Thanksgiving Vacation

Guidance classes have started discussions on self-esteem. They are exploring how some people find it challenging to focus on their positive qualities because they often dwell on the negatives. Many students agree that comments made by others can have a lasting impact and influence our self-perception. In addition to reflecting on their own positive attributes, students are encouraged to seek out and recognize the positive qualities in others as well.

Spring ILEARN Scores will be mailed to 4th & 5th grade families unable to attend parent-teacher conferences. Please contact yor child's teacher if you have any questions.

The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) is piloting three ILEARN Checkpoint assessments for grades 3-8 in the 2024-2025 school year. These Checkpoints are a new component of the LEARN through-year assessment for English/Language Arts and Mathematics, which will be given to all students in Indiana beginning with the 2025-2026 school year. Maconaquah is participating in the pilot program this year. The Checkpoints will take place in fall, winter, and spring. Each test has 20-25 questions and will show how your child is doing in key areas of the Indiana Academic Standards, helping guide teaching and supports your child's learning.

Click the button below for more information and guidance about what to expect on each checkpoint.

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.

Tinkercad is a 3D design tool that allows users to create models and designs. It helps students visualize concepts and is easier to read than paper drawings.Tinkercad is an easy to use form of (Computer-Aided Design) CAD software. They can create shapes, custom objects and enter precise measurements. They can even transfer the design to a 3D printer or Engraver.

Career links were: Cabinet Makers/ Interior Designers, Graphic Designer, Civil Engineers, Mechanical Engineers and more.

5th grade learned about Rube Goldberg machines and gave Tinkercad a try by learning how to create shapes, objects, and even moving machines/objects in Tinkercad.

Regular attendance is crucial for students’ 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. It’s 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!

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!

Click the link below for the lunch and breakfast menus.

Website: www.maconaquah.k12.in.us
Text/phone: 765-689-9131