Dear Parents and Guardians:

The first semester of the 2009-2010 school year is complete and the ISAT exams are upon us. The past few months have been both exciting and challenging for our students and staff. GMSA faces an uphill battle as we work our way off of probationary status. To win this battle, we need the support of every parent, guardian and community member. Success does not just lie on the backs of our staff and students. It takes the work of everyone to make sure our students and school are successful.

You can show your support in various ways. We need parent and community member volunteers to assist us on a daily basis. We need your assistance during morning entry, dismissal, during lunch times, and in the classrooms. Volunteers are needed for parent patrol in order to guarantee safe passage to and from school for our students. We need assistance in our greenhouse and community garden project. Show our students that you care by coming in and filling out a Chicago Public Schools Volunteer Packet and a background check. Once you have completed and passed the process, we will gladly appreciate your service.

Our children need to see their parents and community members involved in the educational process. When a parent is a part of a child’s education, that child has a better chance of academic success and a positive learning experience. Take ownership and responsibility for the education not only for your child, but the children of this community. Thank you to the parents who are currently volunteering. Your work at GMSA is outstanding. Everyone plays a vital role in the education of a child.

Lastly, the ISAT exams begin the week of March 2nd until March 14th, 2010. Students in grades three through eight will participate. They will be tested in Reading, Writing, Math and Science. During this time, attendance and punctuality is very important? We need all students present and punctual. Also, make sure your child is well rested and has a good breakfast. We want all of our students to perform well on the test. We are determined to win in 2010!