Learning with Leffers

Performing Arts Try-Ons!!!  Don’t Miss out!!! The Carmel Middle School Performing Arts Department wants you! Becoming a member of Band, Orchestra or Choir is easy and fun!   Just join us for a ‘Try-on’ at Carmel Middle School!    Try on dates: (all 3:30-6:30pm) Wed. Feb. 3rd Mon. Feb. 8th  Wed. Feb. 10th How do I sign-up??   To sign up visit the Carmel Middle School Website http://www1.ccs.k12.in.us/cam/home and then click on the 5th Grade Performing Arts Try-on link located in the ‘In the News’ section. Do you still have questions? Please contact- cdrabyn@ccs.k12.in.us or rmcelhan@ccs.k12.in.us for Band jpowell@ccs.k12.in.us for Orchestra tscheidi@ccs.k12.in.us for Choir

You have probably heard a lot about MAP testing these past few weeks from your child.  Fifth graders have spent three weeks taking a series of tests during their computer lab and media time.   This post is dedicated to answering some common questions you may have about MAP.  As always, if you have any further questions please contact me.  Thanks. Mrs. L What is MAP? Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) is   a computerized adaptive test. The difficulty of the test is adjusted to the student’s performance based on how well the student has answered questions.    MAP measures a student’s progress and growth.    It shows how your child has grown from one year to the next in mathematics, reading, language usage, and science skills. Teachers gain information on students’ strengths and specific areas of weakness.   Why are we taking MAP tests? MAP tests are used to measure your student’s progress or growth in school.    You may have a chart in your home on which you mark your chi

Don't miss this special wellness night.  Visit booths, participate in group exercise activities, and walk our indoor trail. This free event will be held on Friday, February 26 from 6:30- 8:30pm .  Nurse Diane is looking for educational booth sponsors.  If you are interested in having a booth at the CE Family Fitness Night she would like to speak with you. Please contact her via e-mail -dbraun@ccs.k12.in.us

Here is updated information from Mrs. Alcantara regarding our CES Science Fair.   You can sign up even if you missed the Kickoff Event in December.  There is no need to have an idea to register, just read the packet available in the front office or on the PTO webpage.  There was an error on the CES News webpage stating registration is open through 1/18.  Registration is supposed to close this weekend, but we can extend it for anyone affected by that mistake.  Questions?  Contact Jennifer Alcantara:   AlcantaraJRA@Gmail.com   CES 2015-2016 Science Fair Registration Link: http://goo.gl/forms/5vZSF2Cuh6

Carmel Middle School has scheduled several events to help your child make a smooth transition to CMS.    Here are few to mark down on your calendar. Parent Scheduling Information Night   This is an evening event for parents only . During this presentation, administration & counseling will share information about the scheduling process and course offerings. A Program of Studies will be emailed  during the 1st couple of weeks in January if you wish to preview this information in advance. The Scheduling Information Night will take place on Wednesday, January 27th beginning at 6:30pm in the Carmel Middle School Auditorium. Activity Night - January 14th from 3:45-5:45 PM  is also scheduled for feeder elementary schools. This is an event for students only .  Students take a tour of CMS,  play games, learn more about performing arts classes, enjoy pizza and a middle school basketball game.   CMS Counselors will visit the elementary schools in  early February to begin the

It is good to be back.  I spent the last week visiting my family in Colorado.  The high altitude didn't sit well with me, but the skiing and views were simply amazing.  I came home on Saturday to find my class gift waiting for me.  Thank you for the Trader Joe's and Target gift cards.   Hours of preparation and hard work went into putting on the annual Winter Party.  Mrs. LaFon and our room moms and dads did  a superb job!!  The kids look forward to this party for weeks!!! As we begin a new year, we will be taking some time in class to reflect on our successes, goals, and areas we would like to improve for the second nine weeks.  Please look for report cards to be sent via e-mail this Friday.  As always, if you have any questions about your child's progress, please feel free to contact me.  I always look forward to second semester of fifth grade.  It is filled with lots of activities to get your child ready for CMS.  Happy New Year! Mrs. Leffers