A, B, C’s of School Success Introduce yourself and the presentation title. Let the audience know whether or not you can take questions during or at the end of the presentation (time permitting). Presenters will see notes to cover information at the bottom of each slide. Begin: Welcome, thank you for joining me this afternoon as we discuss the ABC’s of School Success! Our children’s success is very important to us as parents, we want them to succeed in everything that they do, so today you will learn how you can help them achieve success in school. This will be an informal/formal (choose one) presentation. I value your input so do not hesitate to stop me and ask questions or share your own personal success stories. Today’s objectives: -How you as a parent can help your child be successful -Preparation for SOL’s -Helpful homework tips

The Three A’s Attendance Attitude Achievement -In order to be successful your child must be present in class as often as possible. -Having a positive attitude about school also leads to success, when our children think that they can do something then they try even harder and succeed. -Reward them for their achievements and they will continue to do their best.

The Three B’s Be Positive Be Consistent Be there for your child -Don’t let your child get discouraged. Reinforce to them that they are intelligent and that they can do it. -Try to have the same routine every afternoon for completing schoolwork and studying. -Make sure you are available if your child needs help. Don’t always put them off until later, this causes them to become discouraged and frustrated.

Communication -Communication is key -Keep in contact with your child’s teacher so that you can keep up to date on grades and attitude. Teachers can also provide tips that may greatly help at home. -Communicate with your child, ask how their day was. Each day have them tell you one thing that they learned that day, this lets them know that you are interested in what they do and that you are there to help.

-Teachers are the best people that a parent can turn to for help with their child. Teachers spend 8 hours a day with your child and know their schooling habits, partner up and work together to get your child to succeed.

Third Grade SOL’s Tests SOL Total Scale Score: Pass/Advanced: 500-600 Pass/Proficient: 400-500 Fail: 0-399 Scale applies to all SOL tests! Reading Math English Science Social Studies -First SOL’s are given in 3rd grade -Your child will receive SOL (Standards of Learning) tests in each core subject every year until they graduate. -They must pass the SOL’s in order to graduate.

Fourth Grade SOL’s Tests Reading Math Social Studies SOL Total Scale Score: Pass/Advanced: 500-600 Pass/Proficient: 400-500 Fail: 0-399 Scale applies to all SOL tests! -You can prepare your child by purchasing books that are intended to help with the SOL’s. Teachers usually spend the 2nd half of the year preparing the students for them, but additional help may be useful.

Fifth Grade SOL’s Tests Reading English Writing Science-4th &5th curriculum Math SOL Total Scale Score: Pass/Advanced: 500-600 Pass/Proficient: 400-500 Fail: 0-399 Scale applies to all SOL tests!

Homework: The Never Ending Battle -Getting your child to complete their homework is not always easy. -Today, I have a few simple steps that may make the task less stressful on everyone.

Encourage child to do their best Review/Check Homework Homework is a priority Location Daily time Ownership of Homework Encourage child to do their best Review/Check Homework -Always remember that homework is a number one priority. -Set up a system where homework is done at the same time in the same place everyday. -Be supportive of your child and review their homework at the end, but neevr do it for them.

-Homework is done on their own so that the teacher may see weaknesses in the class so he/she can go back and re-teach if necessary. -You won’t be there to take their tests, so don’t do their homework.

-Displaying your child’s work makes them feel good about themselves.

Common Homework Problems -There are a few common problems that occur when your child is doing their homework: -When they ask the parents for help you need to guide them or talk them through it, not do it for them. -Do not let your child watch t.v. while doing their homework. -Do not let your child do their homework late at night, at this point they are tired and will not be able to concentrate as well. Best time for homework is right after school or right after dinner.

Additional Strategies for Homework Homework Box Timers Soft Music Fun Break Homework Contract -Your child may listen to soft, non distracting music. -Make a deal with them, they complete ½ of their assignments then may have a quick break to have some fun—maybe a television show or 20 minutes of video games. -Contracts are helpful, make one up with your child; state the location and time that homework is to be completed. -Also, for additional motivation let them know that if they complete all their homework without fighting and receive good grades they will be rewarded at the end of the week.

Questions Any questions or comments? Thank you for coming today, I hope this session was helpful to you!