Clark Fifth Grade Lock In ends testing week on fun note

During the week of April 1, Clark students spent mornings taking the ISASP test required by law. ISASP is the acronym for Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress. It Is a summative accountability evaluation for all Iowa students. Fifth Grade finished out the testing week with their annual Lock In on Friday night April 5.

Students left school at the regular time of 3:30. They came back to school at 5 meeting in the Clark cafeteria. Most returned wearing their Lock In T-shirts especially designed for this event while wearing comfortable required tennis shoes. Those who could brought flashlights. As students gathered, Mr. Palmatier went for a drive and returned with a number of boxes of delicious pizzas. Drinks and snacks were waiting ready to go. The rules were very simple – have fun but make good decisions. A poor decision could result in being sent home early..

A Facebook record was kept of most of the fun. It was noted that they didn’t get enough pictures, everyone was having too much fun. The entire building was available to use as well as part of the new gym. Off limits were most classrooms Students started the evening with actions that are not normally allowed during school such as running in the halls and sliding down the hallway. Activities available included dodgeball, playing board games, video games and more eating. A talent show planned by the students was a wonderful addition. The fifth grade has some very talented kids. The Lock In came to an end after the very popular flashlight tag was enjoyed by everyone. Parents arrived at 10 p.m. to take some very tired children home.

All in all the evening was perfect. It included a Hawkeye Women’s NCAA Basketball win as well as students who used their time and energy in win-win pursuits.