Parent Notification of Texas Student Success Initiative (SSI)
Abell Junior High School
Midland Independent School District
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August 27, 2007
Dear Parents:
The Abell faculty and staff welcome you to the 2007-2008 school year. This letter is to inform you of the grade advancement requirements of the Texas Student Success Initiative (SSI), which was passed by the 67th Texas Legislature in 1999. The purpose of this initiative is to ensure that every student makes academic progress necessary to show a sufficient understanding of knowledge and skills taught and tested at each grade level.
Beginning in 2007-2008, the SSI requires that Grade 8 students must meet the passing standard on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) in reading and mathematics before they can be promoted to Grade 9. These grade advancement requirements have applied to the TAKS reading test in Grade 3 since 2003 and the grade 5 reading and mathematics test since 2005. Please note that these testing requirements are part of an overall system of support for student academic achievement. This system includes: - evaluation of student needs at grades that precede SSI grades and academic support for students who need additional instruction;
- on going evaluation of student progress during the school year for SSI grades with assistance provided to all students with identified academic weaknesses;
- three testing opportunities on the 8th grade administration of the test beginning in 2007-2008;
- additional instruction after each test administration for students who do not meet the passing standard on a subject-area test;
- a grade placement committee, consisting of the principal, teacher, and parent or guardian, which meets when a student has not met the passing standard after two testing opportunities and decides the most effective way to support the child's academic success;
- an instructional plan for every student who has not met the passing standard after three opportunities, regardless of whether the student is retained or, upon parent appeal, is promoted by the grade placement committee;
- accelerated TAKS mathematics preparation classes in 7th and 8th grade for students that have not been successful on the previous TAKS mathematics test;
- accelerated TAKS reading preparation classes in 7th and 8th grade for students that have not been successful on the previous TAKS reading test;
The SSI recognizes and supports the important role parents play in the education of their children. Your child's teacher and I depend upon and look forward to working with you to help your child succeed. I strongly encourage you to discuss this matter with your child's teachers. I would also be glad to meet with you about the SSI, if you like. Please contact the school at 689-6200 to make an appointment.
Sincerely,
Deborah L. Jordan
Principal
Abell Junior High School |
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