What happens after Winter Screening reports go home?

In this episode, Principal Sean Martinson explains what teachers do once assessments are complete—how grade-level teams analyze data, adjust instruction, and respond to student needs throughout the winter and spring.

Families will learn:

• What winter screening data does (and does not) tell us

• How teachers use data to guide daily instruction

• Why small groups, targeted support, and hands-on learning increase after screenings

• How classroom newsletters, UFLI homework, and progress monitoring updates connect directly to this work

• Simple ways families can support learning at home

This episode is designed to answer the common parent question: “Now what?”

In today’s episode, Mr. Martinson talks with families about how simple games at home can intentionally support math growth. Using dice, dominoes, and a basic deck of cards, children build number sense, mental math, and problem-solving skills—often without realizing they are “doing math” at all. Mr. Martinson explains why game-based learning is used in elementary classrooms, how these activities strengthen thinking and social skills, and why families do not need worksheets or expensive educational games to support learning at home. This episode offers practical ideas families can use right away while keeping math fun, meaningful, and low-pressure.

Welcome back, West Rapids families!

In this first episode of the new year, we share our January instructional focus on evidence-based practices and student-centered learning. We also explain the Winter FastBridge family reports being sent home on Tuesday, January 6, and how they are used to guide instruction and support each child’s growth.

This episode includes a simple story to help families think about learning as a process, not a race, and offers ways families can partner with the school to support student success.

Together at West, we shine.