Dear West Belmar Families,

The spring season is here! On April 7th, we will be a special visit from guest children's author, Audrey Vernick. She will be discussing what is like to be a children author, generating ideas for stories, the writing process, what is like being an author and sharing some of her books. On April 9th, the PTA will be having its annual Egg Hunt where students will search for those colorful egg surprises.

West Belmar School will be closed for Spring Break the week of April 14th – April 21st. The school will reopen Tuesday, April 22nd. I hope everyone has a happy and healthy spring break.

On Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22nd the first graders will be releasing the rainbow trout into the Manasquan Reservoir. The bear cubs have been learning about the life cycle of the rainbow trout from the egg stage to fry.

The end of the month starts with the administration of the NJSLA testing for our 4th and 5th graders during the week of April 28th – May 2nd. The following week grades 3rd will be taking NJSLA. Students will be tested in language arts and mathematics. The language arts section consists of reading passages, multiple-choice items, open ended items and writing tasks. The mathematics section consists of multiple-choice and open ended items. The 5th grade will also be tested in science. Remember to make sure your child has a good night of rest and has a nutritious breakfast before coming to school.

West Belmar School will be participating in Kids Heart Challenge! The entire school will be involved in a 45 minutes cardiovascular jump rope activity. The funds raised will be donated to the American Heart Association, which support life saving research and educational programs. If you are interested in making a donation, please contact Mr. Linstra at 732-556-2569.

I am looking forward to seeing all of you in the upcoming weeks!