MCA Testing Dates

Greenwood's 3rd through 5th grade students will be taking the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) test following Spring Break this year.  Reading tests will be on April 16 and 17.  Math tests will be taken online beginning with 3rd grade the week of April 22, followed by 4th and 5th grade the week of April 29.  For 5th grade only, the Science test will be held on the May 14 and 15.  This testing schedule is subject to change, but the state has firm "testing windows" that our school and district must adhere to.  Individual classroom testing times will be determined soon.

We appreciate everything you do to support student learning. Please remember that good attendance, punctuality, a balanced diet and adequate sleep are important all school year; and remain important as 3rd through 5th grade students are putting forth their best efforts on the state reading and math assessments. The Minnesota Department of Education will create final Individual Student Reports that will be sent home at the end of the summer; these results will be reliable and contain detailed strand data outlining your child's proficiency levels in reading and mathematics.

Parent Input & Planning for 2013-2014

Most of you know that our school is adding a new gym and four new classrooms.  Construction is scheduled for completion by next fall, and our enrollment is projected to increase to approximately 800 students.  This is a very exciting time, and I couldn't be more eager to welcome these new (and returning) students to our school next fall.  Before we open the doors next year...countless hours go into planning and preparing.  A significant part of our planning for the 2013-2014 school year involves placing students into balanced learning groups.  Parents wishing to provide input into group placements are encouraged to complete the attached form and return it directly to Mr. Gustafson no later than May 10.  I will work with staff to review your input and make final placement decisions.      

Click here to download a copy of the 2013-2014 Parent Input form.

I will assign individual teachers to the balanced learning groups later this summer, and communicate those assignments within a week of our Open House.  Please call me if you have questions about the class formation process.

Special Guest

This past week our school welcomed an intern, Mr. Ian Bronson.  He is a high school chemistry teacher and student at the University of St. Thomas, and working on his administrative license.  (Contrary to the student "rumors," Mr. Bronson is not the new health inspector, vice principal or president.)  :)

Mr. Bronson has shared that he's been extremely impressed with the wonderful, family environment at Greenwood and the high level of excellence observed throughout the school from staff and students.  It was professionally rewarding for me to be able to reflect upon our school's commitment to excellence for each and every child; our teachers, staff and parents have been steadfast in their work to this end.  Mr. Bronson's last day as an intern will be tomorrow. 

Kind Regards,

Mr. Brad Gustafson, Principal