Superintendent’s Jan. 17, 2024 Update

Dear APS Families,

I hope you enjoyed the long weekend and that your students found joy in the first snow day we’ve had in quite a while.  I also want to remind families that mid-year assessments are underway. These tests and assessments are given at key points in the year to help us monitor student progress in reading and math, and to ensure every student receives the support they need. Here is more information about these assessments, along with other reminders: 

Mid-Year Testing and Growth Assessments: Assessments at the mid-year point help us measure student progress to ensure the second half of the school year is as successful and productive as possible for every student. Teachers use the information gathered to guide instruction and identify students who would benefit from additional support or who are ready for new challenges. Assessments include:   

• Virginia Growth Assessment for students in grades 3-8 to measure progress in reading and mathematics (Jan. 8 – Feb. 2)
• NWEA MAP Growth (Math Universal Screener) for students in grades 1-8 (Jan. 2 – 26).
• Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS) for students in grades K-5 to measure literacy progress (Jan. 8 – Feb. 2).
• NWEA MAP Growth (Reading Universal Screen) for students in grades 6-8 (Jan. 2 -26).

I encourage families to contact your school with any testing questions or for additional information about how schools and teachers use test results to support student success. Schools regularly communicate the dates for each class so that students are present, rested and ready on test dates.  

Principal Appreciation Week: Thank you to all the students and families who are helping us say thank you to our principals with cards and other gestures. We will continue to honor our principals throughout the week. Visit our website to send an e-greeting to your principal.

Nominate an APS Crossing Guard: I encourage you to nominate an outstanding APS crossing guard who ensures students get to school safely for the Most Outstanding Crossing Guard Award. Nominations close this Fri, Jan. 19.

Enjoy the rest of your week!

Sincerely,