I am so excited to have your child in my class! I know that we are going to have a WONDERFUL year!!!! Fifth grade is a big transition for some children. It is their first experience with switching classes and having more responsibility. I believe that if we work together it will help to make that transition easier. This year will be the first year for the state assessment STAAR test. This test will replace the TAKS test. Fifth grade is a MUST pass year for the state assessments. If your child does not pass the Reading and Math portions of the test, they will not be allowed to move on to the sixth grade. They do however have three chances to pass these tests. One of the big things that your child will be continuing in 5th grade is AR (Accelerated Reader). This is the same program that they have had since Kindergarten. Your child has a goal that they have to meet every six weeks and AR counts as 25% of their Reading grade. Please encourage your child to read and take the time to read with them! :) It is a great way to get in some good quality time. I know that if we all work together this year your child will be very successful, and hopefully 5th grade will be their best year yet!!!!!! Please feel free to contact me if you ever have any concerns or if I can help you in any way!!!!!