Growing Strong Together: April Updates from Robles Elementary

Dear Robles Families,

Happy April! It’s hard to believe we are in the final stretch of the school year. Spring is a time of growth, renewal, and reflection—and our Bobcats are showing just how much they’ve learned and accomplished so far. From academic progress to personal growth, we are proud of every student and grateful for your continued partnership.

AASA Testing (Grades 3–5)
This month, our 3rd through 5th grade students will participate in the Arizona’s Academic Standards Assessment (AASA). These tests are an important opportunity for students to show what they know in reading, writing, and math. We’ve been preparing all year, and our students are ready to shine!

Here are a few ways you can help your child succeed during testing:

• Make sure they get a good night’s sleep before test days.

• Ensure they arrive on time—testing will begin promptly in the morning.

• Provide a healthy breakfast or have them eat here at school.

• Encourage them with a positive message: “Do your best—you’ve got this!”

We’re confident in our Bobcats and know they will give their best effort. Let’s work together to create a calm, focused environment for them during this important time.

Spring Events & Activities
April is full of exciting learning and celebrations:

• Spring Picture Day – Keep an eye out for flyers coming home with order details!

• Our 21st CCLC (Before and After-School) Program Showcase – Teachers will be inviting families to see what students have been working on. Don’t miss it!

• Register for Next School Year – It is time for All students to get registered for next school year! You can do this on ParentVue. Spread the word to friends and neighbors—we’re excited to welcome our returning and new Bobcats!

Attendance Matters
Even as we near the end of the school year, consistent attendance remains critical. Every day counts when it comes to learning, especially as students prepare for end-of-year assessments and complete important projects. Let’s finish the year strong!

Thank You, Families!
We want to express our deepest appreciation for your support throughout the year. Whether you’ve volunteered, encouraged your child’s learning at home, or simply stayed connected, you’ve made a big difference.

As always, if you have any questions or need support, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here for you!

With gratitude,

Dustie Gunn, MBA, MAED
Principal
Robles Elementary School
🐾 ROAR with Bobcat Pride – Respect. Open-Mindedness. Accountability. Responsibility.

Fifth Grade Shines: A Year of Learning and Collaboration

This school year, the fifth grade has been busy exploring new ideas and skills in every subject area. Students are not only deepening their academic knowledge but also learning the art of collaboration, a skill that will serve them well in all areas of life.

In math class, lessons on fractions and decimals have challenged and excited the students. Through hands-on activities and interactive lessons, they have mastered the building blocks of number sense, setting a strong foundation for more advanced math topics in the future.

Science class has been equally engaging, with students delving into both physical and earth science. They have experimented with simple machines, studied the forces of nature, and learned about the dynamic processes that shape our planet. These lessons are sparking curiosity and inspiring the young scientists to ask questions about the world around them.

The focus in English Language Arts (ELA) has shifted toward critical reading skills. Students are honing their abilities to annotate texts and make thoughtful inferences, transforming every story into an opportunity to discover deeper meanings. This approach not only enhances their understanding of literature but also improves their analytical skills.

In writing class, the emphasis has been on developing persuasive arguments through the creation of five-paragraph opinion essays. By organizing their thoughts into clear introductions, supporting paragraphs, and compelling conclusions, students learn how to express their ideas effectively and persuasively.

Social studies has taken the students on a historical journey back to the very beginnings of the United States. By exploring the events and ideas that shaped the nation, they are gaining a better understanding of their country's history and the importance of civic engagement.

Beyond the academic curriculum, the focus on teamwork is a major highlight of the year. Teachers have dedicated time to group projects and collaborative activities, allowing students to learn how to work together, share ideas, and support one another. This emphasis on collaboration enhances students' academic performance and builds a strong sense of community within the classroom.

As the year progresses, the fifth grade continues to shine in academic achievements and growth as collaborative learners. The enthusiasm and hard work demonstrated by these young students are paving the way for a bright and successful future.