Liberty ENews: February 26, 2008

Hello Liberty Parents, WASL testing is coming in March and April. This means we will have a change to our daily schedule. We want you to know clearly when your student needs to be at school. Below are the details and FAQ’s:

 

What are the testing dates?

March 10-13 (reading and writing) & April 15-18 (math and science)

 

What if my child is testing?

If your student is WASL testing, they need to be here at the start of school. Testing begins at 7:28 and ends at 10:08. If students need more time on a particular test, we move them to the library so they can finish.  

 

What is the daily schedule during WASL and where will I find it?

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday during the above testing dates regular classes will begin at 10:13On Wed., March 12th and Wed., April 16th testing begins at 7:28 and ends at 10:08, school begins at 10:13 and students are dismissed at 12:16.  Lunch will be served on both Wednesdays. The daily schedule will be posted online later this week at www.liberty.issaquah.wednet.edu.

 

Are the bus schedules changing during WASL?

Yes and No. Yes, the bus schedule changes on WASL Wednesdays (March 12 and April 16). There are no changes to the bus schedule on the other WASL testing days. To see the bus schedule for “WASL Wednesdays” please go to the district website www.issaquah.wednet.edu/documents/WASL/08WASLWED.PDF for specific school bell times.

 

What happens to seniors and juniors during WASL testing?

Seniors and juniors who are not testing should not come on campus until 5-10 minutes before classes begin. If a senior of junior has no other way to get to school other than the yellow bus, then of course they are welcome. 

 

What is going on with the freshman during WASL testing?

This is the big change. Based on feedback from different parent groups we have decided to make it optional for freshman to be here during the WASL testing part of the day. We had them in classes last year during WASL testing and it did not work. This year we will have extended learning opportunities and seminars available for them to attend. The schedule and description of the freshman learning opportunities will be posted online at the end of this week. If your student has no other way to get to school other than the yellow bus, then of course, they are welcome.

 

Why are you changing things up for the freshman?

Last year during WASL testing all of the freshmen were on campus. Parents, students, and staff reported that it did not work for the freshman to be here. The students were not in their regular scheduled classes and the quality of the learning experience was not OK for the students. In addition, WASL testing is an important part of graduation requirements and is a priority during these two weeks. Furthermore, during WASL testing we need to create a quiet and secure testing environment for the test takers. We will solicit feedback from all groups after the testing is completed later this spring.

 

Please look for WASL information that pertains to parents and students on Liberty’s website after Friday, February 29, 2008.