Hall Star Shine Weekly

We are so glad to open our doors again and begin this next chapter together after winter break. Returning to routines, especially in the heart of winter, can take a little extra energy, and we appreciate the care and commitment families bring as students settle back into school.

As we begin the new year, Hall STEM Academy remains a place of safety, belonging, and high expectations with heart. This is a season of renewed focus, steady growth, and important learning moments, and your partnership makes it possible for every Hall Star to thrive.

Thank you for walking alongside us as we launch 2026 with intention, confidence, and care. We’re ready for a strong start, and we’re grateful to do this work together. 💛

Winter weather reminds us how important safe travel and consistent attendance are for student success.

Please keep in mind:

Every school day matters. Research shows that students who miss 10 or more days in a school year are at higher risk for gaps in learning.
In alignment with MPS Attendance Policy 5100, once a student reaches 6 consecutive days or 10 cumulative absences, all future absences must be supported by a doctor’s note to be considered excused for the remainder of the school year.

We know winter can be challenging. When possible, please:

Prioritize safe, on-time arrival at 7:10 AM.
Communicate with the school if barriers arise.
Partner with us early so we can support your child’s success.

Your consistency and communication truly make a difference.

Hall is launching Level Up 2026, a school-wide focus on helping every Hall Star prepare, grow, and shine.

Level Up is about:

Building strong learning habits.
Strengthening confidence.
Setting personal learning goals and tracking growth.
Preparing students to show what they know.

Winter screeners help us level up instruction so each student gets what they need next.

How families can support Level Up at home:

🕒 Prioritize on-time arrival and attendance.
😴 Ensure students get good sleep.
🍎 Send students ready for the day.
💬 Speak positively about learning and assessments.
❤️ Remind your child: “Just do your best!”

Families are essential partners in this work, and your encouragement matters more than you know.

Over the coming weeks, students in PK–5 will participate in winter academic assessments (including myIGDIs, early literacy, early math, aReading, and aMath, as applicable).

A few important reminders for families:

These assessments are screeners which are tools.
They help teachers understand what students know and what supports will help them grow.
Students are encouraged to do their very best.

Our staff works hard to ensure these experiences feel calm, supportive, and developmentally appropriate for every child.

Find Hall's Testing Calendar on Our Website Here

IMPORTANT DATES & REMINDERS 📆

Monday, January 5th | Return to School | Arrive at 7:10 AM
Monday, January 5th - Friday, January 30th | Winter Assessment Window
Monday, January 19th | NO SCHOOL - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Thursday, January 22nd | Last Day of Quarter 2 [1/2 way through the school year!]
Friday, January 23rd | NO SCHOOL - Record Keeping Day
Monday, January 26th | First Day of Quarter 3
On-Time Arrival Matters: Instruction begins promptly each morning.
Cold Weather Gear: Please ensure students are dressed for winter conditions. Students go outside for recess daily unless it is raining or the temperature is below 0 degrees.