October marks the end of our first quarter. Tuesday, October 18 will be our first quarter report card distribution day. Teachers will request conferences with parents of struggling students or students who have an academic or social concern. If you do not get scheduled for a conference and you would like to meet with the teacher, please email the teacher requesting a conference. When discussing your child’s report card with your child, keep in mind how you respond to the report card. Here are some tips taken from Practical Parent Education:

Ask your child how he or she feels about the report card.

Sit down and look over the report card together. Respond with comments like “You seem very proud of your grades. Your hard work this quarter has paid off!” or “You seem disappointed in your grades. What do you think you can do to improve them?”

Focus on any positive marks or comments on the report card. Be calm if the report card is not what you had hoped it would be.

Develop a plan together to improve the grades.

Ask your child how you can help him or her do better.

Ask the teacher to sit down with you and your child to discuss what changes need to be made. Be realistic in your expectations and focus on small steps in improvement. Remember that social rewards (a hug, words of praise and encouragement, a special time with you) are more important than material or financial rewards. Support your child in all aspects of his or her education through your attitude, interest and participation.

At the end of September we received a banner from the Louisiana Department of Education congratulating us for an increase in our School Performance Score. We have been designated a School of Exemplary Academic Growth.    Congratulations were extended to the principal, her staff, students and school community for earning this impressive designation. The School Performance Score is from the 2010 school year as the state lags behind one year in its recognition events.    We continue to be proof that we can create a world-class education system for all students. Congratulations!!!

We also have received a flag that was flown over the United States Capital on September 11, 2011. This flag was flown as a tribute to Benjamin Franklin Elementary Mathematics and Science School to honor those who lost their lives during the attacks on September 11, 2001. We are grateful to our Congressman, the Honorable Steve Scalise, for enabling our school to have a flag flown as well as receiving the flag and certificate of authenticity.

Each month clubs and activities are listed on our Parent Power New Calendar. Some parents have expressed interest in knowing more about each club or activity. At this month’s PTO meeting we will highlight the clubs and activities offered at Benjamin Franklin Elementary. We hope to see you at the October PTO meeting.   Be in the KNOW by coming out to your PTO!!!