Hello KMS Families,

Here is some important information from KMS:

PSSA: As a reminder, administration of the annual Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) will take place from April 25 to May 4.

Most tests will be administered from approximately 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. However, some students may be assessed in the afternoon if needed. We ask that you avoid making any outside appointments during this time. Your child’s attendance is extremely important.

A state-mandated standardized test, the PSSA is one of many tools that measure student achievement. Every PA student in grades three through eight is assessed in English Language Arts and Mathematics. Every PA student in grades four and eight is also assessed in Science.

While your child has been working diligently with their teachers to prepare, there are also ways that you can help them test their best:

On the Night(s) Before:

• Set an early bedtime.

On the Day(s) Of:

• Provide a nutritious breakfast,
• Ensure they attend school (unless sick),
• Remind them to ask questions if they do not understand directions and
• Advise them to do their personal best.

The PSSA will be taken online again this year. Your student will be instructed to leave their district-issued device and charger at school beginning next Wednesday, April 19, through the duration of the testing period.

Families who wish to opt their child out of the PSSA this year due to a conflict with their religious beliefs must first review the test with a proctor before providing confirmation in writing. Please contact the school to schedule an appointment during the following window next week:

• Monday – Friday, April 17 – 21, from 7 to 10 a.m. or 1 to 4 p.m.

PSSA Help Needed: KMS needs some help with hall monitors during PSSA testing on April 25-27 and May 1-4. Please review the available slots here and click on the button to sign up. Thank you!

Honor Roll Certificates: Third marking period honor roll certificates were distributed to students on Monday, 4/10. There was a small error in printing. If you would like a corrected certificate, please complete this form.

After the Bell: Registration is open! The Spring After the Bell session begins on April 25. View Spring activities and register here.

New this Spring: After the Bell has partnered with TCHS and is offering Wednesday sessions at the Pennock’s Bridge location. Students will learn about cosmetology, animal science, carpentry, HVAC, and automotive engine tech! Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity.

Dressing for Spring: The weather has turned. Please encourage students to dress in layers. Shorts should not be rolled up, and pants/shorts should be worn on the hips. Tops should fully cover the torso.

6th-Grade Physicals: Pennsylvania law requires physical examinations for all students upon entry to the district, grade 6, and grade 11. At this time, there are 140 6th graders who still need to submit a physical form. In order for students to begin 7th grade, we need documentation that they have received the TDAP and meningitis vaccine.

Physical Exams for ‘23-24 Sports at KMS: Sports physicals will be offered at Kennett Middle School on May 22, 23, and 24 for students entering 7th and 8th grade who plan to try out for any sport next year. The cost of a school physical is $15 (cash or check payable to KMS). Please visit our website and access the Parent Sports Letter for more information.

All students must have PIAA consents and sports physicals on file with the school nurse (dshannon@kcsd.org) prior to the first day of tryouts. The physical must be dated on/after May 1, 2023.

Sincerely with Kennett PRIDE,

-The KMS Principals