May Important Dates
This week, we had our final data chat with all classes to review our School Improvement Plan (SIP) writing goal and final assessment. We’re on track to reach our target of 60% student growth by May, and I’m incredibly proud of how well students analyzed data and pie charts!
You may remember that in February, we earned an Excellent rating—5 out of 6 grade levels met or exceeded the 50% growth goal. We’ve continued building on that progress by supporting students' writing skills.
Our Goal:
By February 2025, John Stewart Elementary aims for K–5 students to show 50% growth or reach 85% proficiency in written responses to instructional-level texts. By May 2025, the goal increases to 60% growth or 85% proficiency.
Grade-Level Focus:
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K–1: Read grade-level text and respond to a prompt through writing.
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2–3: Include at least 2 pieces of text evidence in their written response.
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4–5: Include at least 2 pieces of evidence and make a connection to the text.
Students will complete their final writing pieces in the next two weeks. We’re excited to see their growth! Also, if the students meet this goal again with at least 5 out of the 6 grade levels with 60% or more growth, we will have a whole school popcorn party on the last day! I will email everyone the results once they are ready!!
It’s hard to believe we’re already at the final stretch of the school year! Students are currently working one-on-one with their teachers to complete their Rigby reading assessments. Next Monday, 1st–5th grade students will begin their i-Ready Diagnostic 3 assessment.
During recent data chats, we reviewed important test-taking strategies with students, including:
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Taking their time and not rushing
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Rereading questions carefully
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Using math tools like manipulatives, whiteboards, or paper and pencil
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Practicing positive self-talk to stay confident and focused
Our students have been working hard all year long, and we’re excited to see just how much they’ve grown. They’ve got this!
The Meal includes 1 piece of cheese pizza, chips, dessert, and a juice box.
This is a free meal for our students and staff, but you MUST sign up to receive your meal. Sign-up will be from 4/23-5/12. REGISTER HERE. Late Orders will not be accepted. If you have questions, please reach out to stewartptn@gmail.com
2025-2026 Registration
Kaneland IgKnight Personalized Learning Academy (KIPLA)
IgKnight Academy programming is open to any Kaneland CUSD #302 student, entering grades 3-8. In the 2025-26 school year, IgKnight programming will be located within Kaneland John Shields Elementary School for students in grades 3-8 and Harter Middle School for students in grades 6-8, with instruction provided by staff highly trained in personalized practices.
Parents can register their student(s) for KIPLA through Infinite Campus.
