Greetings, Colonel Richardson Middle School families!

As we wrap up the third quarter of the school year, we're immensely proud of the dedication and hard work shown by our staff and students. As we transition into the fourth quarter, we want to remind you of a few important points.

Firstly, the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) testing will be taking place soon for all grades. Most recently, our 8th grade students took the 8th grade Science assessment called MISA. All of these assessments are vital for gauging student progress and ensuring they are on track academically. We encourage all students to prepare diligently and do their best during these evaluations.

With the arrival of spring, we're hopeful for better weather, allowing us to reintroduce outdoor incentives and activities. We believe that fresh air and physical activity contribute positively to our students' overall well-being. Some warmth and sunshine definitely help with all of us being in better moods.

Lastly, as we approach the end of the school year, it's crucial for students to maintain their focus and continue putting forth their best effort academically. We're here to support them every step of the way.

We wish you well,

Dr. Yolanda Holloway, Principal

March 28th-April 1st--Spring Break

April 2nd--Return to School

April 5th--1/2 Day of School/End of 3rd Quarter

April 16th--3rd Quarter Report Cards distributed

April 19th--1/2 Day for Students/Teacher Professional Development; NJHS Spring Dance

April 15th-April 18th--6, 7, & 8th ELA Testing

In past newsletters, the guidance department has reported on attendance topics. It is our priority to make sure every student comes every day. Many guardians are surprised to know that even if an absence is certified by a doctor or a parent, it is still counted against the school in the state reports that are submitted annually. It is our intention to see an improvement from year to year, particularly on the lowest attended days of the year, which are typically half days and the days before holiday break. Please take a look at the data we've recorded so far this year, and reach out if you have any questions! The percentages reported are the percentage of students present that day. The daily goal is 94% attendance.

Parents, there is a superhero in all of us, sometimes we just need help to find a little courage. Let us help you find your courage and be a protector of your children. Parent Coaching is a free resource that connects you with a parenting coach and content created by therapists.Click here to register for support from a coach: https://cookcenter.info/coaching

Dental will be here 4/4 to start cleanings. There is still time to enroll your child. You can call the School Nurse at 410-479-2333.

Reminder all 6th grade students will need the Tdap and Meningitis vaccine before they can start 7th grade. Please get this done asap and get the paperwork to the nurse.

Colonel Richardson High School SBHC Tuesday & Thursday 7:30am - 5:30pm 410- 754-0750

Colonel Richardson Middle School SBHC Monday & Wednesday 7:30am – 5:30pm 410- 754 -9580

Good attendance for your student begins on the first day of the school year. Consider the following facts:

• STUDENTS ARE CONSIDERED CHRONICALLY ABSENT WHEN MISSING 10% OF THE CURRENT SCHOOL YEAR. For example, if a student has been absent 8 days already, he/she is already considered Chronically Absent by the State of Maryland. EXCUSED and UNEXCUSED absences COUNT AS ABSENCES!

• Chronic absenteeism may prevent children from reaching early milestones.

• Chronically absent students have difficulty keeping up with the pace at which they are expected to learn and grow.

• Students who are absent even a day or two every few weeks fall behind their peers.

• Irregular attendance can be a better predictor of whether students will drop out before graduation than test scores.

• Consistent, on-time attendance is a habit that lasts into adulthood.

We closely monitor absences because Maryland law requires that children ages 5-18 attend school. Students may be withdrawn if not attending school regularly; students not enrolled or attending will be considered truant.

Students who are absent for 10% or more of the school year (based on a running tally), are considered chronically absent. For example, if we have been in school for 110 days and your student has 11 absences, they are now considered chronically absent.

An absence is an absence. Parent notes, doctors' notes, court notes, suspensions are all examples of CERTIFIED or EXCUSED absences; however, they STILL COUNT as an absence.

How Can Parents Encourage Good Attendance?

• Build good attendance habits early so children know that getting to school on time every day is important!

• Set a regular bedtime & morning routine, laying out clothes and backpacks the night before.

• Avoid scheduling appointments & trips when school is in session.

• Don't let your child stay home unless he/she is truly sick.

• Consider that sometimes a stomach ache or headache is a sign of anxiety. If your child seems anxious about going to school, talk to the school about helpful resources.

For more information: https://www.carolineschools.org/page/enrollment-attendance#attendance

Dr. Yolanda Holloway, Principal holloway.yolanda@ccpsstaff.org

Mr. Neil Lambert, Assistant Principal lambert.eric@ccpsstaff.org

Mrs. Charlene Sanders, Community Schools Coordinator sanders.charlene@ccpsstaff.org

Ms. Jennifer Blunt, School Counselor 8th Grade and 6th Grade blunt.jennifer@ccpsstaff.org

Mr. Jarrod Moaney, School Counselor 8th Grade and 7th Grade moaney.jarrod@ccpsstaff.org

Mrs. Jane Towers, Enrollment Secretary Towers.Jane@ccpsstaff.org

Mrs. Heidi Plutschak, Administrative Secretary plutschak.heidi@ccpsstaff.org

Email: holloway.yolanda@ccpsstaff.org
Website: https://www.colonelrichardsonms.org/
Phone: 410-479-1462