December 2024
Navigating the Digital World
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
On December 11 we will have a parent and community presentation at the Underwood School by the Bureau of Criminal Investigation Crimes against Children Task Force. They will share the realities that our youth are facing in the digital world and provide insight on how to keep our students PreK- College age safe!
Free Chili dinner at 5:30 PM, Presentation will be from 6- 7:30pm.
Students in grades 7 and up are welcome to attend!
End of Semester Check-in
Reminder: Students should check-in with teachers to make sure they have all work completed, they know what to expect the next few weeks, complete assignments, and prepare for finals or semester exams. Despite the holiday cheer and excitement of winter upon us, there is still a lot of leaning and work that takes place these last few school weeks of the year. Class parties and holiday music concerts are right around the corner too!
7-12 Semester Exams
Yes, all 7-12th grade students will have at least 1 semester exam!
Why? Well the top 3 reasons are:
1)Assessing overall mastery and knowledge
2) Preparation for future challenges and practice in time management, studying, and practice working through potential anxiety provoking situations.
3)Provides feedback while requiring critical thinking and problem solving skills.
The required semester test schedule is included and will take place in class on December 16th. Each student's exam grade will be shared with that student the day after the exam. *If a student in grades 7-12 is not in one of the above courses, another course will be chosen for that student as the required exam.
Additional semester exams will also be taking place on December 19th and 20th for those that have grades below 88% or attendance that requires them to take the tests. Details for these exams are as follows:
*Students are to take the final exam on the day and time assigned.
*Students need to stay in the classroom for the duration of the testing time.
*Students are exempt from the semester exam in a course if they meet the following criteria…
Have an 88% average or higher in the course up to the final day of term one.
Have fewer than six absences in the course up to the final day of term one.
Have fewer than four tardies in the course up to the final day of term one.
Have no in/out of school suspensions.
Have paid all school bills within one week before the first day of semester exams.
Have returned all library books or paid appropriate fines within one week before the first day of semester exams.
*A student with an unexcused absence in a course will be required to take the semester exam in that course.
Students earning exempt status:
If the required exam on December 16th lowers a students' grade below 88%, they are required to take the second exam during the scheduled semester exam day. If the exam keeps their grade at or above 88%, they have the option to retest during the scheduled semester exam day.
*The best test grade will used.
Students with non- exempt status:
Take the required semester exam on December 16th. This score will be entered as a regular assignment grade. They will receive their score and review for final on December 19th or 20th on the last day of the semester term. Take actual test for a grade during the scheduled semester exam day.
*The test grade taken on the exam day will be used.
*Take all other tests as required.
From Stress to Success this Holiday Season
*The holidays can come with added pressure—whether it’s the stress of shopping for gifts, attending multiple social events, or meeting family expectations. DIscuss with each other ideas for managing commitments and set limits where necessary. Help others prioritize what’s most important to them, whether that’s spending time with family, taking time to relax, or focusing on self-care.
* The holidays often involve a flurry of activities, which can overwhelm both parents and children. Make sure there’s time for downtime and relaxation, especially if your child feels overstimulated by social gatherings, travel, or too many commitments.
* The holiday season often disrupts daily routines, children thrive on predictability. Try to maintain regular sleep schedules, meal times, and homework routines as much as possible. This can help reduce stress and provide a sense of stability.
*Remember that it’s okay if things don’t go perfectly, and that imperfections can make the holidays more meaningful.
*Take breaks and engage in activities that recharge energy, such as reading, drawing, playing games, being outside, and yes, a nap can be a great way to recharge too!
Seniors ... almost 1/2 way done!
The last few months have been busy for our senior class. They have been busy learning, exploring, and growing in preparation for new adventures at the end of May. Some of our students will be headed rather far and others sticking close by, nevertheless, there is a lot of preparation to be had these next few months.
FAFSA-
All students have created an account. They will be filling out their portion of the application in school which will send a parent an invite link. This link will allow for the parent, or "contributor" to create an account and complete the 2025-26 FAFSA application. Once complete, please be on the lookout for information on potential opportunities for federal aid in your email, in your FAFSA account, and from colleges!
