Learning in the Outdoor Classroom

Hello OCRS families,

It looks like we're going to have a wide swing of temperatures this week, so we encourage students to wear layers to school to stay warm during the cold morning arrival. We also ask students to check the "Lost and Found" in the cafeteria to reclaim any hoodies, jackets, etc. that they may have forgotten at school these past couple of weeks.

Learner Behaviors and Academic Grades on the Parent Portal

In Smithfield, all schools use Infinite Campus as our student information system to post grades throughout the school year. We also input some grades throughout the trimester to show you the progress that your child is making. Families can login to the Infinite Campus Parent Portal to check in on how your student is doing so far. The grades posted are NOT final grades - think of them as ongoing assignments and assessments. Learner behaviors are based on a 3 point scale so you will see a 1, 2, or 3 in different learner behavior categories. Academic grades are based on a 4 point scale. Families should not expect any student to earn a 4 in any academic area until the third trimester because a 4 indicates mastery of "end of year" standards and skills.

There are four learner behaviors at the elementary level. Each behavior includes multiple indicator descriptions. Check out this chart to understand all that is included in each learner behavior.

Learner BehaviorsIndicator Description
Respects others’ rights, feelings, and propertyHelps others
Exercises self-control
Listens to others even if they disagree
Acknowledges others’ ideas
Demonstrates ability to reach compromise
Shares responsibility
Demonstrates responsibility and organizationUses time effectively
Organizes self and materials
Follows school and class rules
Accepts responsibility for actions
Engages in learningFollows directions and routines
Works independently
Actively listens
Accepts and learns from feedback
Contributes to conversations and group discussions
Demonstrates effortWorks through challenges
Attempts new strategies when needed
Asks questions and seeks information
Demonstrates stamina
Seeks to improve work

When reviewing grades that are posted, families can use these family guides to help understand all of the components that are included in one standard. These family guides provide an overview of the report card followed by detailed descriptions of the standards for learner behaviors, English language arts, math, science, social studies, health, and special subjects.

Grade K Family Guide
Grade 1 Family Guide
Grade 2 Family Guide
Grade 3 Family Guide
Grade 4 Family Guide
Grade 5 Family Guide

To access the Parent Portal, log into the Infinite Campus Parent Portal at https://smithfieldri.infinitecampus.org/campus/portal/parents/smithfield.jsp (the same system you use to access your child’s report card and update their contact information).

If you have any questions about the grades your child received to date, please reach out to your child's teacher.

Grades

Applying for Free/Reduced Meals if Carryover from Last Year has Expired

Some families may have received a message about the expiration of their child's "Meal Carryover" from last school year. If you received this message and you haven't already, please apply for Free/Reduced Meals for the 23-24 school year by completing the linked application form (English or Spanish). Families can find additional information at https://www.smithfield-ps.org/page/school-meal-program.

If any family could use some assistance in completing the application, please contact Mr. Barrette and we will reach out to you.

Lunch

Two Book Groups for Students at East Smithfield Library

Our friends at East Smithfield Library are offering two different book groups for students in grades 2/3 and grade 4/5. Please see the linked flyers for all of the details:

Books

Smithfield Elks Lodge Americanism Essay Contest

The Smithfield Elks Lodge #2359 announced its annual Elks Americanism essay contest for fifth through eighth grade students. This year’s theme is “What the Bill of Rights Means to Me”. All entrants are required to submit cover sheets which must be attached to the essay. Please see this link for the forms. More information and cover sheets can be obtained by contacting Kristin Sullivan at kristin_sullivan@me.com.

Essay

Upcoming Dates and Events

View and subscribe to the OCRS Public Events Calendar at https://oldcounty.smithfield-ps.org/o/old-county-road-elementary/page/monthly-calendar. Click on the "Add to Google Calendar" button to subscribe to the calendar using your own calendar app.

SSELAC Parent/Guardian Meeting, Wednesday October 18th at 6:30 PM at Greenville Library

5th Grade Bike Safety Program, Week of October 23rd

Smithfield Fire Department Safety Presentations, Monday October 23rd

Black and Orange Spirit Day, Tuesday October 31st

Flu Vaccination Clinic, Thursday November 2nd from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM


Thank you,
Mr. Barrette


Students learning in the Outdoor Classroom with Revive the Roots

Building a habitat

Listening carefully

Building a habitat