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El Semanario Edison Language Academy – Together Through Two Languages (310) 828-0335 www.edison.smmusd.org
ANNOUNCEMENTS Helping Parents Support Early Literacy Development – Helping unlock the mystery of reading is one of the joys of teaching young children! Guiding students to become fluid and confident readers who enjoy reading is some of the most important work that elementary schools do. We work hard to develop early literacy at school and to make sure parents have the tools they need to provide reinforcement and support at home. There are some “tricks of the trade” that can make this easier for parents so that supporting young readers at home can be a positive interaction. And, of course, in a dual immersion program, we’re not just teaching reading in one language. All but the small number of children who arrive at school already fully bilingual, are also learning a second language at the same time! So there are some other tips about second language learning that are helpful for most parents. Check out the upcoming parent education offerings supported by our Title I funds through our School Site Plan and grab a seat! Spanish Phonics Workshops –The last Spanish Phonics Workshop for 2016-17 is scheduled for Tuesday, October 11, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Please sign up on the K bulletin board or e-mail Maestra Anabella Fullerton (afullerton@smmusd.org) to reserve a spot. This workshop is especially helpful for TK and Kindergarten parents and parents who would like to be able to more easily and accurately sightread words in Spanish. Supporting Emergent Readers -- Spanish Reading Intervention Teacher John Ellis provides st nd workshops for parents of 1 and 2 graders to support the regular reading practice most young readers need. One of his special gifts is showing parents how to make reading practice fun and engaging – rather than a battle. A workshop for st parents of 1 graders will be held on Monday, October 17 at 8:30 am and a workshop for parents of nd 2 graders on Monday, October 24, at 8:30 am, both in the Edison Library. Email or call Mr. Ellis to reserve a spot (jellis@smmusd.org) or 310 828-0335, ext. 61314.
FROM THE PRINCIPAL’S DESK: EDISON RECOGNIZED AS A NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL Edison Language Academy was named last week as a 2016 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education! Edison is one of only 279 public and 50 private schools receiving this honor in the nation. Schools are nominated for the award by their State Departments of Education, and then complete a comprehensive application about school practices. Edison was recognized as an Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing School for schools making the fastest progress in their state in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. In addition to being evaluated on use of research-based best practices, one of the many factors that Edison was judged on was the performance of our third, fourth and fifth graders on the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) in English and math. Edison has shown tremendous growth in state assessment exams th over the last decade, with particularly strong scores for our 5 grade students – reflecting national research on second language learning. The fact that Edison, a schoolwide Title 1 immersion school, has been able to achieve this growth while at the same time dedicating so much instructional time to Spanish and a vibrant arts program is especially noteworthy. What we have accomplished at Edison takes artful, skillful teaching and a focused and collaborative effort by all teachers and staff. It also is made possible because of the support and involvement of our parent community and the steadfast support (over 30 years) from our Board of Education. The common vision we share for the success of our students helps us persist in the face of challenges and keep pressing to elevate our practice. “Edison is a great example of a school where the principal, teachers, staff and parents all work together toward student success and closing the achievement gap,” said Dr. Sylvia Rousseau, SMMUSD co-interim superintendent. “We are proud that they have been recognized nationally as an exemplary school while serving as a great model within SMMUSD as we implement our Equity through Excellence plan across all schools.”
October 12 – Local Holiday NO SCHOOL
October 19 – PTA Association Meeting 8:30 am
October 22 – The Great Shakeout Earthquake Drill