Elementary Essentials 🍀

Writing Samples

Teachers will provide a writing sample from the Module 2, End-of-Module (EOM) Task. Each grade level will submit one sample of a “typical” piece of writing to represent their grade level (use the rubric associated with the EOM task for guidance). The EOM Rubric has four categories ratings: 4 = Exceeds expectations, 3 = Meets expectations, 2 = Partially meets expectations, 1 = Does not meet expectations. Grade levels should select a paper that scores a 3 on the rubric.

This will give us a baseline for the writing development of our students and some exemplars that could be used next year for the success criteria of the EOM task. Writing sample links for submission are below.

Please upload one writing sample from your grade level that represents a typical writer (score of 3 on the EOM task). The deadline to upload the samples is April 11.

Kindergarten

First Grade

Second Grade

Third Grade

Fourth Grade

Fifth Grade

Module 4 Workbooks

Module 4 workbooks are available to order from DSF through March 28. Remember, these workbooks will not be automatically sent to you. The pacing guides do not require you to teach Module 4, but some teachers have expressed an interest in exploring the units so we wanted to make the workbooks available. Note: Fourth grade should have already received Module 4 workbooks through school mail.

Enjoy your spring break!

Assessment Window March 24- April 25 .

As we prepare for our Kansas Math Assessments, I want to ensure you have access to the following information. First, students in 4th and 5th grades are permitted to use the updated resource pages. You can also find a link below which lists all allowable KAP resources and manipulatives. It is recommended that students actively use the KAP resource page and the allowable manipulatives throughout the year so that they are familiar and helpful resources they may select to use during state assessments.

There is often confusion which we would like to clarify. Labeled hundreds charts ARE allowed; however, labeled multiplication charts ARE NOT allowed. 😊

3rd Grade – No KAP Resource Page
4th Grade Resource Page
5th Grade Resource Page

Allowable Resources/Manipulatives for ALL students

Nested Fraction tiles

We recognize the importance and significance of our state math assessments. We want to thank YOU for all of the intentional opportunities, supports, and preparation you have given our Olathe students in learning and mastering their grade level standards!

It has recently come to our attention that teachers who were previously accessing Eureka lessons through the Great Minds site have had difficulty accessing those resources. If you still prefer to use the Great Minds site, the location of the Eureka Math PDF files has changed, as they work to improve the usability of their website. To access the Eureka Math files, you can visit greatminds.org – Knowledge Hub (top toolbar) – Instructional Resources – then choose the files you would like.

However, we HIGHLY recommend accessing all math resources through our Math SharePoint. Here you will find everything you need for your Eureka lessons and MUCH more! If you have not spent much time in this resource, please visit the Elementary page, select your grade level, and scroll down to see all of the files and resources available at your fingertips!

The Quarter 3 QBA window closes on Thursday, March 13. Over the next couple of weeks, Spencer Brown and his team will be analyzing the data. Once it is prepared, he will share it with your building principal and instructional coach. They will then notify you when it is available for review and ready to go through the protocol during PLCs.

At the bottom of your grade-level math page in our Math SharePoint, you'll find a blue button labeled "Teacher Feedback for Pacing Guide." If you have any specific feedback as we prepare next year’s pacing guides, please click the button and share your recommendations. Your input is valuable, and our committee will carefully consider your suggestions. Thank you for your time and insight!

Tonight, Thursday, March 13, into the early hours of Friday, March 14, skywatchers in Olathe, Kansas, and across the United States will be treated to a spectacular celestial event—a Total Lunar Eclipse, also known as a Blood Moon.

During this event, the Earth, Moon, and Sun will align, causing the Earth to cast its shadow over the Moon. As the Moon moves into the Earth's umbra, or darkest shadow, it will take on a reddish hue, earning the name "Blood Moon." The eclipse will begin with a partial phase just after midnight Central Time, with totality lasting from 1:26 AM CT to 2:31 AM CT, peaking around 2 AM.

This total eclipse, sometimes referred to as a "Worm Blood Moon," will be visible across the night side of Earth, with the United States in a prime viewing location. As long as the skies remain clear, the event will be easily visible to the naked eye, providing a stunning and rare display. Be sure to check your local forecast and prepare to witness one of nature's most breathtaking shows!

First one to email me what a “Worm Blood Moon” is wins a prize!!! (And it doesn’t have to do with earthworms!)

Upon returning from Spring Break, your building Inspire Science contact will receive the 2025-26 ordering forms along with instructions for completing. So be expecting these from your building contact. These will be returned electronically by your administrator to the Science Department by Monday, April 7. This allows us time to order from various companies and have your refill ready for when you return in August. If you have any questions, please contact the Science Department.

Please check out the 2024-25 social studies newsletter for important social studies related items.

Social Studies Assessment scores are due no later than tomorrow, March 14, 2025

Check out this amazing webinar from the Library of Congress with Rachel (MP-5). The “Bringing Rural Histories to Life: Using Picture Books and Primary Source Investigations” webinar is FREE and will be March 17, 6:00pm-7:30pm.

🍀Thank you for all you do and have an amazing spring break!