Minnehaha Parents & Families,

I’m thankful that we are just about ready to leave the gray, cold Winter behind us!  While we have had lots of weather-related energy, excitement, and hopes the past few weeks, I think it’s pretty safe to say that we are “out of the woods” as far as potential weather-related delays and closures go.  Check out the updated VPS District calendar attached to the newsletter, as it has our updated end-of-year dates in June (the last day of school is now officially June 19).

As we gear up for the big March push before Spring Break, keep in mind that the official window for the Spring State assessments in ELA and Math for 3rd-5th graders officially opens in a few weeks.  Known as the Smarter Balanced Assessments, these computer-adaptive tests are administered each year during the testing window.  Our testing coordinating team is currently working through some draft testing schedules for our building, and our teachers will be getting you updated information over the next few weeks.  Our testing is slated to begin in mid to late April – more information to come soon!

Each week, our building staff and students have the opportunity to nominate staff members.  This past month, our winners have been Miss Loncar, Miss Landon, Mrs. Budde, and Miss Miller.  VPS also has a monthly structure for highlighting and celebrating excellent employees – more information attached to this newsletter – please consider nominating a Minne staff member who has made a difference in your child’s life.  We have amazing staff – let’s celebrate them!

Happy March!

Troy