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Eagle STAAR 8th Grade Testing - Round #2

April 21

by Troudt, Sandy

on 4/21/2013 8:07 AM

Category: Need to Know

April 21, 2013

Dear Indian Springs Parents/Guardians,

ISMS 8^th Graders will be administered the STAAR Science and Social Studies Assessments on Wednesday and Thursday, April 24 and 25.

Please note the following reminders concerning our procedures on assessment days.

Testing Schedule

Students should be well rested, mentally prepared and have eaten a good breakfast before the start of school. They should arrive to school at the regular scheduled time: doors open at 8:00 a.m., the first bell is at 8:20 a.m. Students will be counted tardy at 8:30 a.m. Please allow yourself enough time in the morning to ensure that your child does not arrive to school late on testing days. Testing room assignments were posted in the main hallway on Friday, April 19.

All STAAR Assessments will have a four-hour time limit. Students will be taking a 30 minute lunch break during their testing session (time will stop for lunch). Testing time does not stop for student restroom breaks or rest/stretch breaks. The four-hour time limit will stop if your student becomes ill and needs to be escorted to our ISMS nurse’s office. Students who have an accommodation of extended time for assessments will have to the end of the school day, 3:40 p.m., to complete their exams.

Cell Phones/Electronic Devices

On state mandated testing date(s), student use of cell phones and electronic devices is prohibited. Please be aware that students are not allowed to send or receive cell phone calls, text messages, or use any kind of electronic device during the administration of a state test. Invalidation of test scores may subsequently result from student usage of electronic devices.

§ Students will be instructed to turn off all electronics, take out the batteries if possible and turn in these items to their test center administrator to be locked in a storage area. These items will be returned directly to your child at the end of the testing session.

§ Remember to call ISMS at 817-744-3200 if you need to contact your student. Our front office staff will take any messages for your student and will deliver these messages after the testing session has concluded.

Attendance

Student attendance is essential.

§ Mrs. Phillips, ISMS Attendance Clerk, will be calling the homes of absent students as close to 8:40 a.m., as possible to determine the reason for the absence and see if the student can hurry to campus to complete their STAAR exam on the scheduled day. Depending on when students arrive, the campus will determine when the students’ four-hour time limit will start or if the students will have to make up the exam later.

§ 8th Grade STAAR Science and Social Studies Assessments are eligible for a make-up for students who are absent.

o Students missing Wednesday, April 24, will take their scheduled Social Studies assessment on Thursday, April 25, and then make up the Science exam on Friday, April 26.

o Students missing Thursday, April 25, will take their make-up Social Studies exam on Friday, April 26.

o Students missing both Science and Social Studies assessments will only be allowed to make up the Science exam on Friday, April 26. All make-up testing must be completed by Friday, April 26, by 3:40 p.m.

§ Parents - We are requesting NO early dismissals (if possible).

Class Schedule after STAAR Assessments

· Wednesday, 4/24 - 7^th Grade STAAR Reading and 8^th Grade STAAR Science

· Depending on time left, all students

· if finished between 1:18 - 2:03 go to 3rd

· 4th - 2:07-2:52

· 5th - 2:55-3:40

· Thursday, 4/25 - 8th Grade STAAR Social Studies

· Flip the schedule for all 7^th Graders i.e. 8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1

· Depending on time left, 8th Grade will join the schedule

· 1:18 - 2:03 go to 3rd

· 2nd - 2:07-2:52

· 1st- 2:55-3:40

Parents, Volunteers and Other Visitors

ISMS parent volunteers: unless you have volunteered to assist with our testing procedures, hall and restroom monitoring, please schedule a different day to come to campus and assist our staff. We also request that students do not receive deliveries on assessment days.

Snacks/ Lunch

§ Students need to bring a healthy snack, sack lunch and a bottle (or two) of water to drink. Water is the only beverage allowed in the test centers. Students’ snacks bag and lunches should be labeled with their name. Please do not bring peanut butter products.

§ Remember that refrigeration will not be available, nor will students have access to microwaves.

§ The ISMS Cafeteria will be selling sack lunches for $2.50, which includes a ham sub sandwich, apple, carrots and milk.

§ We are requesting that students either bring their lunch or purchase their lunch from the cafeteria, no deliveries.

In closing, our students have worked hard to prepare for their STAAR assessments. They are ready for the Science and Social Studies assessments and we are excited to see each student perform their best on these assessments. One more checklist to assure that your student is prepared for the important day.

Students Remember To Bring:

1. Students dress casually, remembering that dress code policies are in effect: no pajamas pants, slippers, etc.

§ Dress in layers, jacket, sweater or sweatshirt in case test centers are too cool or warm.

§ Students are not allowed to bring blankets or pillows.

2. Bring two sharpened #2 pencils.

3. Bring a healthy snack (in a separate bag from lunch), labeled with student name. Students will be allowed to have this snack at their desk during the assessment; however, remember to have nutritional items that may be consumed without leaving marks or traces of food on the answer document. Please no Cheetos or other messy chips or juicy fruit items. Please do not bring peanut butter products.

4. Bring a sack lunch labeled with student name. Please do not bring peanut butter products.

5. Bring 2 bottles of water. (Bottled water is the only beverage in the testing centers).

6. Bring a library book to read. Students are not allowed to read magazines, textbooks, newspapers or other types of reading materials (Kindle, Nook or similar item).

7. Students remember: do not discuss test content with anyone (after testing, at home, during passing periods, etc.)

8. Students should refrain from bringing electronics to campus. If they do bring any type of electronic device, it must be turned off, battery removed and checked in with their test administrator. These items will be labeled and stored in a locked cabinet during the duration of the test. All items will be returned to the correct student at the end of the testing session.

Thank you for your support. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office (817) 744-3200.

Sincerely,

Sandy Troudt

Principal, Indian Springs Middle School

817- 744-3210

Eagle STAAR Testing - 7th Grade Round #2

April 21

by Troudt, Sandy

on 4/21/2013 8:04 AM

Category: Need to Know

April 21, 2013

Dear Indian Springs Parents/Guardians,

ISMS 7^th Graders will be administered the STAAR Math and Reading Assessments on Tuesday and Wednesday, April 23and 24. Please note the following reminders concerning our procedures on assessment days.

Testing Schedule

Students should be well rested, mentally prepared and have eaten a good breakfast before the start of school. They should arrive to school at the regular scheduled time: doors open at 8:00 a.m. and the first bell is at 8:20 a.m. Students will be counted tardy at 8:30 a.m. Please allow yourself enough time in the morning to ensure that your child does not arrive to school late on testing days. Testing room assignments were posted in the main hallway on Friday, April 19.

Cell Phones/Electronic Devices

Attendance

Student attendance is essential.

§ 7th Grade STAAR Math and Reading Assessments are eligible for a make-up for students who are absent.

o Students missing Tuesday, April 23, will take their scheduled assessment on Wednesday, April 24 and then make up day #1 on Thursday, April 25.

o Students missing day #2 will take their make-up exam on Thursday, April 25.

o Students missing both day #1 and day #2 exams will make them up in order on Thursday and Friday, April 25 and 26. All make-up testing must be completed by Friday, April 26 by 3:40 p.m.

§ Parents - We are requesting NO early dismissals (if possible).

Class Schedule after STAAR Assessments

· Tuesday, 4/23 - 7th Grade STAAR Math

Students will rejoin the regular class schedule 6, 7 & 8

· Wednesday, 4/24 - 7^th Grade STAAR Reading and 8^th Grade STAAR Science

· Depending on time left, all students

· if finished between 1:18 - 2:03 go to 3rd

· 4th - 2:07-2:52

· 5th - 2:55-3:40

· Thursday, 4/25 - 8th Grade STAAR Social Studies

· Flip the schedule for all 7^th Graders i.e. 8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1

· Depending on time left, 8th Grade will join the schedule

· 1:18 - 2:03 go to 3rd

· 2nd - 2:07-2:52

· 1st- 2:55-3:40

Parents, Volunteers and Other Visitors

ISMS parent volunteers: unless you have volunteered to assist with our testing procedures or hall and restroom monitoring, please schedule a different day to come to campus and assist our staff. We also request that students do not receive deliveries on assessment days.

Snacks/ Lunch

§ Students need to bring a healthy snack, sack lunch and a bottle (or two) of water to drink. Water is the only beverage allowed in the test centers. Students’ snacks and lunches should be labeled with student name. Please do not bring peanut butter products.

§ Remember that refrigeration will not be available, nor will students have access to microwaves.

§ The ISMS Cafeteria will be selling sack lunches for $2.50, which includes a ham sub sandwich, apple, carrots and milk.

§ We are requesting that students either bring their lunch or purchase their lunch from the cafeteria, no deliveries.

In closing, our students have worked hard to prepare for their Math and Reading STAAR assessments. They are ready for these exams and we are excited to see each student perform their best. One more checklist to assure that your student is prepared for the important day.

Students Remember To Bring:

1. Students dress casually, remembering that dress code policies are in effect: no pajamas pants, slippers, etc.

§ Dress in layers, jacket, sweater or sweatshirt in case test centers are too cool or warm.

§ Students are not allowed to bring blankets or pillows.

2. Bring two sharpened #2 pencils.

3. Bring a healthy snack (in a separate bag from lunch), labeled with student name. Students will be allowed to have this snack at their desk during the assessment; however, please provide nutritional items that may be consumed without leaving marks or traces of food on the answer document. Please no Cheetos or other messy chips or juicy fruit items. Please do not bring peanut butter products.

4. Bring a sack lunch labeled with student name. Please do not bring peanut butter products.

5. Bring 2 bottles of water. (Bottled water is the only beverage in the testing centers).

6. Bring a library book to read. Students are not allowed to read magazines, textbooks, newspapers or other types of reading materials (including Kindle, Nook, or similar item).

7. Students remember: do not discuss test content with anyone (after testing, at home, during passing periods, etc.)

Thank you for your support. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office (817) 744-3200.

Sincerely,

Sandy Troudt

Principal, Indian Springs Middle School

817-744-3210

Principal Troudt Parent Letter

April 17

by Troudt, Sandy

on 4/17/2013 8:03 AM

Category: Need to Know

April 17, 2013

Dear Eagle Parents,

Greetings from the Land of the Eagles. In one thought, I can't believe that we have fewer than eight weeks left in this school year and then it seems like forever since we finished our first wave of STAAR Assessments. I appreciate your assistance with all of our projects including assisting with STAAR Hall and Restroom Monitoring. I will be sending out the usual STAAR reminder letter on Monday, April 22, but I have several important items for your calendars.

ISMS Schedule Updates

· Friday, April 19 - End of the 5th Six Weeks

· Report cards will be issued to students on Friday, April 26

· Friday, April 19 - Early Release/Alternate Schedule

· 8:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m., Students are encouraged to bring a sack lunch and sack lunches will be available for purchase in the cafeteria

· 1:00 p.m. - Students should be off campus at this time

· Tuesday, April 23 - STAAR - 7th Math

· Wednesday, April 24 - STAAR - 7th Reading and 8th Science

· Thursday, April 25 - STAAR - 8th Social Studies

· After STAAR Administration - Class Schedule

· Tuesday, 4/23 - 7th Grade STAAR Math

Students will join the regular class schedule 6, 7 & 8

· Wednesday, 4/24 - 7^th Grade STAAR Reading and 8^th Grade STAAR Science

· Depending on time left, all students

· if finished between 1:18 - 2:03, go to 3rd

· 4th - 2:07-2:52

· 5th - 2:55-3:40

· Thursday, 4/25 - 8th Grade STAAR Social Studies

· Flip the schedule for all 7^th Graders, i.e. 8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1

· Depending on time left, 8th Grade will join the schedule

· 1:18 - 2:03, go to 3rd

· 2nd - 2:07-2:52

· 1st- 2:55-3:40

Congratulations!

· Heather Campbell and the ISMS Yearbook Staff

· Walsworth Yearbook Marketing - 2013 Photo Contest Winners Announced!

More than 2,500 photos were submitted for the contest and one winner was named per category, so winning was quite an accomplishment! Winning photos were determined based on quality, creativity, use of photography rules, viral nature (Facebook Likes) and appropriateness to photo category for which the photo was submitted.

· Honorable Mentions in each category:

· Junior High/Middle School

§ Adrienne Hinojosa, Indian Springs Middle School, Keller, Texas

§ AJ Curry, Hawthorn Middle School North, Vernon Hills, Ill.

§ Connor Kirkwood, Indian Springs Middle School, Keller, Texas

§ Fiza Goyal, Davis Drive Middle School, Cary, N.C.

§ Trevor Crupi, Westfield Middle School, Westfield, Ind.

§ All photos submitted for the contest are eligible for our use in marketing and promotional materials. To see the winners, check out our Facebook page in the album 2013 Photo Contest Winners.

· Congratulations to our ISMS Bands for their outstanding UIL performances

· Way to go - David Puckett, Chris Sebesta, Jennifer Alcocer and all of our Band students

· Congratulations to ISMS Choirs and their performances at UIL

· Way to go - Amy James and all of our Choir students

· Congratulations to both ISMS Boys and Girls Track

· Way to go - Melissa Davis, Matt Sanchez and our other fabulous coaches and students

Calendar Events

· Wed. 5/8 - STAAR Alg I - EOC

· Tues. 5/14 - STAAR 8th Math - Make Up/Re-Test

· Wed. 5/15 - STAAR 8th Reading - Make Up/Re-Test

· Fri. 5/17 - 8th Grade Dance

· 6:00 - 9:00 PM - Volunteers Needed

· Mon. 5/27 - Memorial Day, School Holiday

· Wed. 5/29 - 7th Grade Rocket Day

· Thurs. 5/30 - Eagle Preview

· Thurs. 5/30 - NJHS Induction Ceremony

· Fri. 5/31 - Awards Ceremony

· Fri. 5/31 - PTA End of the Year Party (TBD)

Thank you for your support, if you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Sandy Troudt

Principal, Indian Springs Middle School

817-744-3210

Eagle Parents - STAAR Assessment Information - 8th Grade

March 26

by Troudt, Sandy

on 3/26/2013 1:11 PM

March 26, 2013

Dear Indian Springs Parents/Guardians,

ISMS 8^th Graders will be administered the STAAR Math and Reading Assessments on Tuesday and Wednesday, April 2 and 3.

Algebra I - Students

8^th Grade Students currently taking Algebra I will not take the 8^th STAAR Math assessment on Tuesday, April 2, these students will be having an “Algebra I – Boot Camp” in the cafeteria, main gym and small gymnasium. All Algebra I students will need to either bring their sack lunch on Tuesday, April 2, or purchase a lunch from the cafeteria.

Please note the following reminders concerning our procedures on assessment days.

Testing Schedule

Students should be well rested, mentally prepared and have eaten a good breakfast before the start of school. They should arrive to school at the regular scheduled time: doors open at 8:00 a.m., and first bell is at 8:20 a.m. Students will be counted tardy at 8:30 a.m. Please allow yourself enough time in the morning to ensure that your child does not arrive to school late on testing days. Testing room assignments will be posted in the main hallway on Thursday, March 28. Students will report to their reading testing centers on Monday, April 1, for a short orientation with their testing administrators.

Cell Phones/Electronic Devices

Attendance

Student attendance is essential.

§ 8th Grade STAAR Math and Reading Assessments are eligible for a make-up for students who are absent.

o Students missing Tuesday, April 2, will take their scheduled Reading assessment on Wednesday, April 3, and then make up the Math exam on Thursday, April 4.

o Students missing the Reading assessment will take their make-up exam on Thursday, April 4.

o Students missing both Math and Reading assessments will make them up in order on Thursday and Friday, April 4 and 5. All make-up testing must be completed by Friday, April 5 by 3:40 p.m.

§ Parents- We are requesting NO early dismissals (if possible).

Class Schedule after STAAR Assessments

§ Tuesday, April 2 – Students will return to afternoon classes-this means a shortened 6^th period, regular 7^th and 8^th periods.

§ Wednesday, April 3 – Students will return to morning classes with the exception of 1^st period-this means a shortened 2^nd period, regular 3^rd and 4^th periods.

Parents, Volunteers and Other Visitors

Snacks/ Lunch

§ Remember that refrigeration will not be available, nor will students have access to microwaves.

§ The ISMS Cafeteria will be selling sack lunches for $2.50, which includes a ham sub sandwich, apple, carrots and milk.

§ We are requesting that students either bring their lunch or purchase their lunch from the cafeteria, no deliveries.

In closing, our students have worked hard to prepare for their STAAR assessments. They are ready for the Math and Reading assessments and we are excited to see each student perform their best on these assessments. One more checklist to assure that your student is prepared for the important day.

Students Remember To Bring:

1. Students dress casually, remembering that dress code policies are in effect: no pajamas pants, slippers, etc.

§ Dress in layers, jacket, sweater or sweatshirt in case test centers are too cool or warm.

§ Students are not allowed to bring blankets or pillows.

2. Bring two sharpened #2 pencils.

4. Bring a sack lunch labeled with student name. Please do not bring peanut butter products.

5. Bring 2 bottles of water. (Bottled water is the only beverage in the testing centers).

6. Bring a library book to read. Students are not allowed to read magazines, textbooks, newspapers or other types of reading materials (Kindle, Nook or similar item).

7. Students remember: do not discuss test content with anyone (after testing, at home, during passing periods, etc.)

Thank you for your support. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office (817) 744-3200.

Sincerely,

Sandy Troudt

Principal, Indian Springs Middle School

817- 744-3210

Eagle Parents - STAAR Assessment Information - 7th Grade

March 26

by Troudt, Sandy

on 3/26/2013 1:10 PM

Category: Need to Know

March 26, 2013

Dear Indian Springs Parents/Guardians,

ISMS 7^th Graders will be administered the STAAR Writing Assessments on Tuesday and Wednesday, April 2and 3. Please note the following reminders concerning our procedures on assessment days.

Testing Schedule

Students should be well rested, mentally prepared and have eaten a good breakfast before the start of school. They should arrive to school at the regular scheduled time: doors open at 8:00 a.m. and first bell is at 8:20 a.m. Students will be counted tardy at 8:30 a.m. Please allow yourself enough time in the morning to ensure that your child does not arrive to school late on testing days. Testing room assignments will be posted in the main hallway on Thursday, March 28. Students will report to their testing centers on Monday, April 1, for a short orientation with their testing administrators.

Cell Phones/Electronic Devices

Attendance

Student attendance is essential.

§ 7th Grade STAAR Writing Assessments are eligible for a make-up for students who are absent.

o Students missing Tuesday, April 2, will take their scheduled assessment on Wednesday, April 3 and then make up day #1 on Thursday, April 4.

o Students missing day #2 will take their make-up exam on Thursday, April 4.

o Students missing both day #1 and day #2 exams will make them up in order on Thursday and Friday, April 4 and 5. All make-up testing must be completed by Friday, April 5 by 3:40 p.m.

§ Parents- We are requesting NO early dismissals (if possible).

Class Schedule after STAAR Assessments

§ Tuesday, April 2 – Students will return to afternoon classes-this means a shortened 6^th period, regular 7^th and 8^th periods.

§ Wednesday, April 3 – Students will return to morning classes with the exception of 1^st period- this means a shortened 2^nd period, regular 3^rd and 4^th periods.

Parents, Volunteers and Other Visitors

Snacks/ Lunch

§ Remember that refrigeration will not be available, nor will students have access to microwaves.

§ The ISMS Cafeteria will be selling sack lunches for $2.50, which includes a ham sub sandwich, apple, carrots and milk.

§ We are requesting that students either bring their lunch or purchase their lunch from the cafeteria, no deliveries.

In closing, our students have worked hard to prepare for their STAAR assessments. They are ready for these writing assessments, and we are excited to see each student perform their best. One more checklist to assure that your student is prepared for the important day.

Students Remember To Bring:

1. Students dress casually, remembering that dress code policies are in effect: no pajamas pants, slippers, etc.

§ Dress in layers, jacket, sweater or sweatshirt in case test centers are too cool or warm.

§ Students are not allowed to bring blankets or pillows.

2. Bring two sharpened #2 pencils.

4. Bring a sack lunch labeled with student name. Please do not bring peanut butter products.

5. Bring 2 bottles of water. (Bottled water is the only beverage in the testing centers).

6. Bring a library book to read. Students are not allowed to read magazines, textbooks, newspapers or other types of reading materials (including Kindle, Nook, or similar item).

7. Students remember: do not discuss test content with anyone (after testing, at home, during passing periods, etc.)

Thank you for your support. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office (817) 744-3200.

Sincerely,

Sandy Troudt

Principal, Indian Springs Middle School

817-744-3210

March 08

by Troudt, Sandy

on 3/8/2013 1:07 PM

Category: Great News

March 8, 2013

Dear Eagle Parents!

Happy Spring Break!

I trust that your break will be fun, wacky, and restful, all at the same time. I believe having a week away from the regular routine will be greatly appreciated by all the students and our faculty and staff as well.

Celebrations:

Congratulations to ISMS Filmmaker, Joy Cheever, winner of Grades 5-8 Animation Category in the Keller ISD 2013 Film Festival. Take a moment and watch Joy’s film, “Willie 2” - click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1q8KTtnfdO4

Congratulations to ISMS Band and Choir Students:

ISMS Wind Ensemble, Symphonic and Concert Bands all won Sweepstakes awards at the UIL contests, and our Choir students also had a great showing. I hear that our Honor Choir "rocked it out" and got robbed by the judges. Eagles, you are all winners in our hearts and we appreciate all the hard work and dedication that you have put into making your bands and choirs a success.

When we return from spring break, we will be preparing our students for the 7th Writing, 8th Math, and 8th Reading STAAR Assessments, in doing so we will have a number of days that we will be using a block schedule. During a block schedule day, students have 4 periods instead of their usual 8 and the classes are 90 minutes long as opposed to 45 minutes long. Please take a moment and mark your calendars for the following dates:

Block Schedule Dates – Preparation for STAAR

· Wednesday, March 20^th - Class periods 1,3,5, & 7

· Thursday, March 21st - Class periods- 2,4,6, & 8

· Wednesday, March 27^th- Class periods 1,3,5, & 7

· Thursday, March 28^th - Class periods- 2,4,6, & 8

· Wednesday, April 10^th - Class periods 1,3,5, & 7

· Thursday, April 11th - Class periods- 2,4,6, & 8

· Wednesday, April 17^th - Class periods 1,3,5, & 7

· Thursday, April 18th - Class periods- 2, 4, 6, & 8.

STAAR Assessments are right around the corner, please note the dates below. We are requesting that your students bring a sack lunch on these testing dates:

STAAR Assessment Dates for 2013:

· Tuesday, 4/2 – 7^th Grade Writing Day #1 and 8^th Grade Math

· Tuesday, 4/2 - Algebra I Students will be having an "Alg I Boot Camp" in our cafeteria, main and small gymnasiums

· Wednesday, 4/3 – 7^th Grade Writing Day #2 and 8^th Grade Reading

· Tuesday, 4/23 - 7^th Grade Math

· Wednesday, 4/24 - 7^th Grade Reading and 8th Grade Science

· Thursday, 4/25 - 8^th Grade Social Studies

· Wednesday, 5/8 – 8^th Algebra I EOC

· SSI (Student Success Initiative) - 8^th Grade Retests

· Tuesday, 5/14 - 8th Math

· Wednesday, 5/15 - 8th Reading

More details will be forth coming in the next few weeks and, in the meantime, travel safe during the spring break. We will be on Daylight Savings Time when we return on Monday, March 18^th.

Sincerely,

Sandy Troudt

Principal, Indian Springs Middle School

817-744-3210

February 06

· http://www.kellerisd.net/community/communications/Pages/Podcast.aspx

by Troudt, Sandy

on 2/6/2013 1:06 PM

Category: Great News

February 6, 2013

Dear Eagle Parents and Families,

Congratulations! ISMS Filmmaker – Joy Cheever

§ Joy’s film, “Willie 2,” has been named as one of the finalists in the Keller ISD 2012 Film Festival. Joy entered her film in the Animation Category for grades 5 – 8. This year’s festival had over 300 films submitted in a variety of categories. Please click here to view Joy’s film: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1q8KTtnfdO4. Good luck Joy in the finals!

Publishing Page Content

Just a few important announcements and reminders:

STAAR Assessment Results 2012

Today, our students received their 2011-2012 STAAR Assessment Results during 5^th period. Please review the results with your student, sign the envelope and have your student return the envelope to their 5^th period teacher.

In the envelope, there will be a letter explaining the results and I have also attached this letter to the end of this document for you to review.

The 2011-2012 AEIS (Academic Excellence Indictor System) Report has been posted on our ISMS website since December and this report does not have the STAAR Assessment results included. It does have valuable information concerning other aspects of our campus. Please click here for more information:

http://campus.kellerisd.net/schools/ism-044/ISMS%20Core%20Documents/ISMS%20AEIS%202011-2012.pdf

Local Districts Rally Together Feb. 7 to Support Texas Schools

§ Thursday, February 7 – Keller ISD, Carroll ISD and Grapevine-Colleyville ISD are hosting a rally to support Texas Schools at 7:00 p.m. at Grapevine High School. Click on this link for more information: http://www.kellerisd.net/community/getinvolved/Pages/Our-Schools-Our-Voice.aspx

Texas and Public School Finance Issues

§ If you haven’t signed up to receive Dr. Randy Reid, Keller ISD Superintendent’s podcasts, take a moment and click on this link. I believe that you will enjoy being “In the Loop” with Dr. Reid. These podcasts have great information about a number of issues facing our Texas Public Schools, including Public School Finance.

PTA Hosts – 2013 Winter Bash, 7^th & 8^th grades

§ Friday, February 8, from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

§ Tickets are being sold all this week during all lunches. Students must have parent permission to attend the event.

§ See our ISMS website or click on this link for more information and to view the parent consent form:

· http://campus.kellerisd.net/schools/ism-044/Lists/Campus%20Announcements/DispForm.aspx?ID=413&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fcampus%2Ekellerisd%2Enet%2Fschools%2Fism%2D044%2FPages%2Fdefault%2Easpx

ISMS and Safety Drills and Routines

§ Safety Drills-

o At ISMS, we do a number of safety drills through the school year including fire, tornado, soft lockdown (potential threat is outside and students remain in classrooms and instruction continues), and full lockdown (threat is in the building). We ask that you remain outside until we have concluded our safety procedures. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

§ Severe Weather Dismissal Procedures

o In the event of severe weather at our regular 3:40 p.m. dismissal time, our student’s safety is our #1 concern. At the same time, we will make every effort to dismiss students promptly. We may hold students after regular dismissal if there is severe weather in the area and dismiss everyone as soon as the weather clears.

o Lightning waivers (those that can walk home or go outside at dismissal) – students will report to the main gym

o Bus Riders & On the Go bus transportation – students will report to the cafeteria

o Students without waivers – students will stay in their 8^th period class until parent comes to release and name has been called through phone or intercom

o Parent pick-up procedures for those without signed release forms:

§ Parents enter through the library door and go through our ISMS student check out procedures. If you are able to wait in your vehicle until the severe weather passes, we will release your student to you when it is safe for them to go outside.

§ Students may text or call parents to keep in touch but teachers will inform students that a text or phone call on a student phone will not permit release during severe weather dismissal.

STAAR Assessment Dates for 2013:

§ Please mark your calendars with the following dates. Our students are working hard in preparation for this spring’s assessments. Each day that your student is testing, we are requesting that students bring a sack lunch. Remember, no peanut products. We have several students that are extremely allergic to peanuts and peanut products. We will provide more information as we get closer to these important dates.

§ Tuesday, 4/2 – 7^th Grade Writing Day #1 and 8^th Grade Math

§ Wednesday, 4/3 – 7^th Grade Writing Day #2, 8^th Grade Reading

§ Tuesday, 4/23 - 7^th Grade Math

§ Wednesday, 4/24 - 7^th Grade Reading and 8th Grade Science

§ Thursday, 4/25 - 8^th Grade Social Studies

§ Wednesday, 5/8 – 8^th Algebra I End of Course

§ SSI (Student Success Initiative) - 8^th Grade Retests

· Tuesday, 5/14 - 8th Math

· Wednesday, 5/15 - 8th Reading

Thank you for all that you do and we appreciate your support.

Sincerely

Sandy Troudt

Principal, Indian Springs Middle School

817-744-3210

February 06

Sandy.troudt@kellerisd.net

by Troudt, Sandy

on 2/6/2013 1:03 PM

Category: Great News

February 6, 2013

Dear ISMS Parent/Guardian:

School districts statewide continue to transition to the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) program. As you may recall, initially the Texas Education Agency (TEA) only released students’ raw scores for students in grades 3-8 in late May 2012. As anticipated, performance standards for STAAR grades 3-8 have recently been established and applied to students’ raw scores from the 2011-2012 school year. Enclosed are two documents to assist with understanding your child’s results.

1. Confidential Student Report displaying your son’s/daughter’s individual raw scores correlated to the corresponding STAAR performance level.

2. STAAR Parent Brochure provided by Texas Education Agency explaining how to read and understand STAAR results.

A common question asked in reference to state assessment results is in regards to grade advancement requirements. The Texas Student Success Initiative (SSI) is in place to ensure that every student makes the academic progress necessary to show a sufficient understanding of the knowledge and skills taught and tested at each grade level.

	2011-2012	2012-2013
6^th grade	No grade advancement requirements
7^th grade	No grade advancement requirements	No grade advancement requirements
8^th grade	Grade advancement requirements were deferred for one year	Required to pass STAAR Reading and Math

The SSI requires:

· Grade 8 students enrolled in grade 8 Language Arts and grade 8 Math must meet the passing standard on the reading and mathematics STAAR assessments before they can be promoted to grade 9.

· Grade 8 students enrolled in Algebra I or Geometry must still meet the passing standard for Grade 8 STAAR reading as a part of the SSI promotion requirement.

· Grade 8 students taking STAAR Modified or STAAR Alternate assessments have flexibility in their testing requirements because their requirements are determined by their ARD committee.

The STAAR testing dates for the spring of 2013 are:

April 2^nd	7^th Grade Writing Day One; 8^th Grade Math
April 3^rd	7^th Grade Writing Day Two; 8^th Grade Reading
April 23^rd	7^th Grade Math
April 24^th	7^th Grade Reading; 8^th Grade Science
April 25^th	8^th Grade Social Studies
May 8^th	End of Course Test for Algebra Students

Please note in the future, students will take their STAAR assessments and receive their complete scores before the end of the school year. The scores enclosed today are primarily for informational purposes. If you have questions or concerns regarding your child’s scores, please do not hesitate to contact Indian Springs Middle School at 817-744-3200.

Sincerely,

Sandy Troudt

Principal, Indian Springs Middle School

817-744-3210

January 17

by Troudt, Sandy

on 1/17/2013 1:01 PM

Category: Great News

January 17, 2013

Dear Eagle Parents,

Happy New Year! Our students have been busy finishing exams, projects and finding those lost assignments in an attempt to raise their grades as we close out the first semester. It is a joy to see our kids working and learning. It’s hard to believe that the students are going to get a four-day vacation this weekend when it seems like we just returned from Christmas Break.

ISMS Schedule Updates

Please note that there is a long list of dates at the end of this letter to put into your calendar. You may also find these important dates on the ISMS web site. The following dates will impact your student's lunch:

· Friday, January 18 – Early Release/Alternate Schedule

o 8:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m., Students are encouraged to bring a sack lunch and sack lunches will be available for purchase in the cafeteria

o 1:00 p.m. - Students should be off campus at this time

· Friday, January 25 - Math Benchmark Assessment

o All students will be in their testing centers for the Math Benchmark

o Students will be testing from 8:45 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

· Students should bring a sack lunch and sack lunches will be available for purchase in the cafeteria

· Lunch will be from 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.

o Alternate class schedule from 1:00 p.m.-3:40 p.m.

o Report cards will be handed out during 5th period

· Please note the entire list of important dates at the end of this letter

Spelling Bee

Last week, Mr. Tim Berg, 7th grade Language Arts Teacher/ELA Department Chair, organized our Annual Spelling Bee Contest and I am proud to announce our winners:

· First place – Danielle Streetenberger, 7^th grade

· Runner up – Matthew Bohn, 7^th grade

Congratulations Danielle, Matthew and to all of our student participants!

2013-2014 Course Registration and Information

It is that time of year when our counselors will be hosting information meetings for our students as they pick their classes for the next school year. Please note the following announcement:

· On Tuesday, January 29, there will be a Parent Meeting for all current 7^th grade parents to find out about our upcoming 8^th grade registration. We will have a daytime meeting from 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and an evening meeting from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Please attend one of these meetings for information concerning 8^th grade courses that are available for your child next year. Teachers will be available to talk with parents and curriculum will be available to view. The students will spend time with the counselors during Flight on January 30-31 where they will go over the same information.

o On Friday, February 1, ISMS counselors will be available here in the front office to answer any questions from parents from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.-no appointment needed.

· On Tuesday, February 5, Parent Information meetings will be held for all current 6th grade parents for information concerning 7th grade registration.

o On Friday, February 8, ISMS counselors will be available here in the front office to answer any questions from SKI parents from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.-no appointment needed.

· On Wednesday, February 13, CHS and KHS counselors will come and speak with our current 8th grade students concerning course selections for 9^th grade registration.

o On Friday, February 15, CHS and KHS counselors will be available here at ISMS to answer any questions for parents from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. - no appointment needed.

ISMS PTA Hosts Annual "7^th & 8^th grade Winter Bash"

On Friday, February 8, 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., PTA will be hosting our Annual Winter Bash, which highlights a DJ for dancing, photo booth and more! This event is for both 7th & 8th grade students and more information will be coming out in the very near future. We will need parent volunteers to help set up, break down, and chaperone the dance. If you are interested, please contact Mrs. Stephanie Moore - cands1609@verizon.net and if you have not completed a KISD Volunteer Application (background check), please go to the Keller ISD web site or click on this link: http://www.kellerisd.net/district/career/Pages/Volunteers.aspx

ISMS needs adult volunteers to teach Junior Achievement

Please note the information on the attached flyer for Junior Achievement. If you need more information, please contact Mrs. Laura Rizvi, ISMS Academic Associate, at laura.rizvi@kellerisd.net. Typically, this entails your willingness to attend a training session and six different times to teach the curriculum during our "Flight" (student advisory) classes. Talk with neighbors, friends and business associates to see if we can get adult role models (they do not have to have an ISMS connection) to come and mentor our kids through the JA Program.

Keller ISD - Our Schools, Our Voice

· Keller ISD is joining Carroll ISD and Grapevine-Colleyville ISD to host a public rally Thursday, February 7 to support Texas schools.

The districts invite taxpayers, parents, and educators to attend the rally which will showcase the schools and encourage the public to continue to make education a priority.

Titled Our Schools, Our Voice, the rally will be held from 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. on February 7, at the Grapevine High School Gymnasium, 3223 Mustang Drive in Grapevine. The rally is free and all three districts will be selling $10 rally t-shirts in the weeks leading up to the event.

Schedule Updates –

· Friday, January 18 – Early Release/Alternate Schedule

o 8:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m., students are encouraged to bring a sack lunch and sack lunches will be available for purchase in the cafeteria

o 1:00 p.m. - Students should be off campus at this time

· Monday and Tuesday, January 21 & 22 - Student Holiday-No School

· Wednesday, January 23 - All students will report to their 1st semester, 1st period classroom and will receive an updated class schedule before reporting to their 2nd Semester, 1st Period classes

· Friday, January 25 - Math Benchmark Assessment

o All students will be in their testing centers for the Math Benchmark

o Students will be testing from 8:45 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

· Students should bring a sack lunch and sack lunches will be available for purchase in the cafeteria

· Lunch will be from 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.

o Alternate class schedule from 1:00 p.m.-3:40 p.m.

o Report Cards will be handed out during 5th period

· Tuesday, January 29 - Parent Meetings - 7th to 8th grade Registration (see details above)

o Friday, February 1 - ISMS Counselors will be available all day to assist with parent questions concerning registration

· Tuesday, February 5 - Parent Meetings - 6th to 7th grade Registration (see details above)

o Friday, February 8 - ISMS Counselors will be available all day to assist with parent questions concerning registration

· Thursday, February 7 - Our Schools, Our Voice - Grapevine High School (see details above)

· Friday, February 8 - ISMS 7^th & 8^th grade Winter Bash - 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

Thank you for your support and if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Sandy Troudt

Principal, Indian Springs Middle School

817-744-3210