Dear Franklin Academy Families,

As we approach the upcoming testing season, we want to take a moment to emphasize how important this time is for our students and our school community. Standardized tests are one of the ways we measure student growth, academic achievement, and the effectiveness of our instruction. They also help us identify areas where additional support may be needed.

We know that testing can sometimes feel stressful for students — and even for parents! That’s why your encouragement and involvement are more important than ever. When students feel supported at home and school, they are more confident and better prepared to do their best.

Here are a few ways you can help your child feel ready and confident:

✅ Talk about the importance of effort: Remind your child that these tests are an opportunity to show what they've learned. Encourage them to take their time, read carefully, and do their very best.

✅ Set a positive tone: Your attitude toward testing matters. Help your child see it as a chance to shine, not something to fear. A positive mindset can make a big difference!

✅ Prioritize rest and routine: Make sure your child gets a good night’s sleep before testing days and eats a healthy breakfast. A well-rested mind and a full stomach can help with focus and stamina.

✅ Minimize stress: Avoid scheduling appointments or activities that could make mornings feel rushed. A calm, organized start to the day sets a strong tone for success.

✅ Celebrate the effort: After the test, praise your child for their hard work and perseverance, regardless of how they feel about their performance.

At Franklin Academy, we are proud of the growth we have seen in our students this year, and we know that with your support, they will rise to the occasion. Testing is a part of the journey, but it is their daily efforts, strong character, and resilience that will carry them the farthest.

Let’s continue working together to help our students finish the year strong!

Your proud principal,
Mr. Delgado

This month, we proudly shine our Staff in the Spotlight on Ms. Lynette Portela, our outstanding Media Specialist and Gifted Educator. Ms. Portela's impact on our students is nothing short of remarkable. Through her creative and engaging library lessons, she brings history, literature, and important life lessons to life — from inspiring poetry sessions to powerful units on Helen Keller, Ruby Bridges, and the fight for women's rights.

Beyond her work in the media center, Ms. Portela also serves as our teacher of the gifted, where she challenges and inspires her students to reach for their highest potential. Her passion for education and her unwavering belief in each child's abilities create an environment where curiosity is sparked, talents are nurtured, and dreams are built.

Thank you, Ms. Portela, for the extraordinary work you do every day to enrich the lives of our students. You are a true cornerstone of our school community!

As agreed to by all Parents/Guardians and defined in the Parent School Contract, Franklin Academy families must complete service hours each academic year. Franklin Academy’s family service hour agreement states that Franklin families will be required to perform eight (8) hours of service for the academic year regardless of the number of students enrolled.

Families are required to complete 8 hours by June 30th, we highly recommend completing them as soon as possible. Families can check Raptor to ensure hours are accurately recorded. The hours in Raptor will roll over into PowerSchool about a week after each quarter ends. If you notice any issues, please email Mr. Carnaggie at Carnaggie.Christopher@franklin-academy.org.

Our goal is for 100 percent of our families to complete their required hours and ensure no student loses their seat.

Dear High School Families,

Please review our 2025 Spring testing calendar. Any changes or adjustments made will be communicated. Please note that the AP/DP testing dates will not change.

We will have Super Testing Days on May 1, May 2, May 6, May 13, & May 14. Super Testing Days are designated days when only students who are participating in state testing or assessments attend school. On these days, the school typically has a reduced number of students on campus, as only those scheduled to take the tests that day are present.

On Super Testing Days, students will report to school and go directly to their assigned testing room (room locations will be posted on the 3rd floor where testing will be taking place). Testing will conclude and students will receive lunch and depart from school at 12PM via bus or car. Please make sure you have made pickup arrangements for these days. Because students can take up to the entire school day to complete their exam, if a student is not done by 12PM they will be permitted to stay on campus and complete their exam. If that student takes the bus and must stay to complete their exam, they will take the K-8 bus at 3:30PM.

Key Points about Super Testing Days:

• Purpose: The main goal is to create a focused environment for students who are taking important assessments, minimizing distractions from non-testing students.
• Logistics: Schools often adjust their schedules, ensuring that testing students have the necessary resources and support available.
• Impact on Attendance: Non-testing students will engage in alternative learning activities at home, providing flexibility in the school schedule.
• Attendance: Non-testing students’ attendance will be marked as “L” for school activity and testing students’ will be marked as “M” for testing.
• What Students Should/Should Not Bring to School: A pencil, calculator (4 function for Biology and scientific for Algebra 1/Geometry), snacks/water/lunch for after testing. Students SHOULD NOT BRING THEIR BACKPACKS OR ANY ELECTRONICS with them on testing days. Electronics include, but are not limited to, cell phones, smart watches, headphones/earbuds, laptops, iPads/tablets, fitness trackers, smart glasses, or any other wearable technology.

If you have any questions or concerns, please email Ms. Sunday at sunday.jennifer@franklin-academy.org.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we approach the upcoming FAST testing window, we understand that this time can be both exciting and stressful for students and families. At Franklin Academy, we’re committed to supporting our students not just academically, but emotionally as well. Here’s everything you need to know to help your child feel confident, calm, and prepared for test day!

✅ What is FAST?

The Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) is a progress monitoring tool that helps measure students’ academic growth throughout the school year. The goal isn’t just to test—it’s to understand where your child is thriving and where they may need support.

🏡 How You Can Help at Home

1. Establish a Routine:
Consistent bedtimes and wake-up times help regulate your child’s brain and body for better focus.

2. Prioritize Sleep & Nutrition:
Aim for 8–10 hours of sleep and provide a healthy breakfast on testing days (think protein, fruit, and whole grains).

3. Practice Positive Talk:
Encourage your child with phrases like:
“You’ve got this!”
“Just do your best, that’s all that matters.”
“I’m proud of you no matter what.”

4. Use Practice Tools:
Ask your child’s teacher for FAST practice resources or visit the Florida Department of Education website for sample questions and guides.

🧠 Tips from the School Counselor: Coping with Test Anxiety

Dear Families,
Testing can trigger anxiety, even in high-performing students. Here are some strategies I share with our students to help them manage nerves:

🧘 Breathing Techniques:
Try this before or during the test: Breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 4, out for 4, hold for 4. (Box breathing!)

🌟 Normalize the Feeling:
Let your child know it’s okay to feel nervous—it means they care!

🎧 Mental Visualization:
Have them picture themselves walking into the classroom, opening the test, and calmly answering questions.

📅 Keep Perspective:
Remind them this is just one snapshot of their learning—one piece of the puzzle.

🎒 What to Bring on Test Day

• A good night’s sleep
• A healthy breakfast
• A water bottle
• Confidence and a smile 😊

If your child seems especially anxious, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I’m here to help!

If you have any questions or concerns, please email Ms. Fernandez or Ms. Clermont at

Fernandez.Jessica@franklin-academy.org

Clermont.Kerlyne@franklin-academy.org

May 1st:

• Middle School Art Show from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM

May 5th:

• Theater 1 One Act Plays

May 6th:

• K, 5th and 8th Grade-Cap and Gown Pictures
• Transition into MYP

May 14th:

• The Play That Goes Wrong

May 23rd:

• Career Day

May 28th:

• 5th Grade Sneakerball Dance

May 29th:

• Kindergarten Promotion Ceremony at 9:00 AM
• 5th Grade Bridging Ceremony at 11:00 AM

May 30th:

• 8th Grade Promotional Ceremony at 9:00 AM
• 8th Grade Formal "A Star was Born Hollywood Glam"

May 31st:

• Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony at 10:00 AM in Los Segadores de Vida

May 20th:

• 5th Grade-Xtreme Action Park Field Trip

FortifyFL is a suspicious activity reporting tool that allows you to instantly relay information to appropriate law enforcement agencies and school officials. All Franklin Academy students have access to FortifyFL via their Clever portal dashboard.

Building Better People, Everyday

Location: 5000 SW 207th Terrace, Pembroke Pines, USA

Phone: (954) 315-0770

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