Challenger Families,
"Testing season" can be a bittersweet time for students and staff. On one hand, it directs what we do as educators, provides valuable data about student achievement, and switches up the status quo in our daily schedule. On the other hand, it can create some added stress for our learners. For this reason, we are taking steps, where possible, to create a positive testing environment for our students.
Next week begins our spring 2025 NWEA and MSTEP testing at Challenger. Your child's teacher will be communicating the dates of testing for your child. Please know that grades K-5 will complete NWEA testing for math and reading. Grades 3-5 will complete MSTEP testing for math and reading, with 5th grade also completing a science and social students component.
At Challenger, we are taking some practical steps to support a smooth testing season. We are implementing positive testing practices such as taking breaks during testing, providing positive encouragement, and taking time prior to testing for students to move while talking with friends. We are also encouraging good practices during testing season, such as eating healthy foods that fuel our bodies, getting 9-12 hours of quality sleep a night, and spending time doing activities that soothe the mind and body (reading, playing board games, and enjoying time outdoors).
We are so proud of our Challenger Champions that CARE by showing Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Engagement - and also for their commitment to growth and achievement. We don’t need a test to tell us how fantastic, skilled, and kind our Challenger students are! They show us everyday.
As always, thank you for sharing your children with us.
David Cherry
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Highlander Virtual Enrollment for the 2025-26 School Year
As we enter the final quarter of the school year, Howell Public Schools is actively planning for the 2025–2026 school year, including staffing our in-person buildings and Highlander Virtual. As part of this process, the enrollment window for Highlander Virtual is now open for students in grades 6–12. Highlander Virtual students learn from home through Schoology while remaining connected to Howell teachers and having access to social and emotional support, sports, performing arts, and clubs. Families wishing to enroll their child in Highlander Virtual for the first time or those who would like their child to remain in the program for the 2025–2026 school year must complete the Highlander Virtual Application and Consent Form by 5 p.m. on Friday, April 25, 2025. If you have any questions about the program, please get in touch with Brooklyn Gehringer, Highlander Virtual administrator, at [email protected].
Help Guide Our Health Education Curriculum – Parent Survey Now Open
Every three years, Howell Public Schools seeks input from parents and guardians to help review and guide the district’s sex education and reproductive health education program. As part of this process, the district’s Sex Education Advisory Board is inviting parents to complete a brief survey to ensure the program continues to meet the needs of our students. Please note that this survey is intended for parents and guardians only and is not being administered to students. We value your feedback and encourage you to share your thoughts by completing the survey by Sunday, April 14. Thank you for your support and partnership. You can complete the survey at https://bit.ly/3FN6P5x.
April Celebrating Awareness Themes
There are two Celebrating Awareness themes this month. The first is Autism Acceptance Month, and the second is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Autism Acceptance Month is a time to learn about and celebrate people with autism and the unique ways they see the world. Child Abuse Prevention Month reminds us how important it is to keep children safe and support strong, caring families. To learn how your child can participate in this optional program, please visit https://bit.ly/4lhaAQX. Submissions can be made to the office at your child's school.
Highlander Robotics Open House – April 28
Come explore the world of robotics at the Highlander Robotics Open House on Monday, April 28, 2025, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Parker Commons! Families and students in grades K-12 are invited to see our robotics programs in action, with robots on display and team members available to answer questions. Interest forms will also be available for those who want to learn more about joining a team.
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Counselors Corner
As we approach the state testing season, it's natural for some students to feel anxious or stressed. These assessments can be challenging, but with the right support, parents can help ease their child’s worries and boost their confidence. Here are a couple of quick tips to help your child navigate testing season with less stress:
Maintain a Routine
Encourage your child to get plenty of rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and have a calm morning before the test. A consistent routine can help them feel more relaxed and prepared.
Normalize Test Anxiety
Let your child know that feeling nervous is completely normal. Talk about testing as an opportunity to show what they've learned, not something to fear. Remind them that it’s just one part of their school experience, and it doesn't define their abilities.
Stay Positive and Offer Encouragement
Give your child words of encouragement leading up to and during the test. A simple “You’ve got this!” or “Just do your best, that’s all that matters” can help reduce anxiety and reinforce a growth mindset.
By offering emotional support and focusing on the process rather than the outcome, you can help your child feel more confident and capable during the testing season!
For more information, support, or a more personalized family plan, please reach out!