Little Things

 We have made it through the first four days of school and it is going well.  There are so many rules, procedures, routines, and people to get to know during this time.  We are still settling in and getting used to each other.  But, there is progress being made, a little each day

There's a couple of things that would make lunch in the classroom go smoother.  I could use a bottle of ketchup.  The children get packets in the cafeteria, but that just doesn't seem to be enough for some.  I can't send them down to the cafeteria for more.  The same is true for bar-b-que sauce.  I have a small refrigerator in my room to keep them at a good temperature. That way, if they need a little more ketchup or bbq sauce I have it on hand.  It's the little things that make a difference for the children.

Thanks to all those parents who have donated Chlorox wipes, baby wipes, bottled water, and microwave popcorn, and bandaids.  We have already used some of them.

Please remember to send a snack and a bottle of water each day with your child.  I don't keep food items in the classroom.  It attracts bugs and critters  It's disappointing for the children who don't have a snack each day.

Tonight we will start homework.  Almost every evening, Monday through Thursday, there will a page or two of homework.  We do the class practice math page A in class.  On the other side is homework page B.  They are very similar but different.  At first, they will need help reading the directions.  By reviewing the math lesson from school that same evening at home, you are reinforcing the concept taught to them that day.  Repetition is a fundamental way to ensure the concepts they are learning in school are being retained.  Then we can build on those skills with more difficult concepts.   The math page is due back the next day, so please find time every evening to help your child with it.  If they are staying focused, it should take about five minutes.

In the book bag tonight you will also find a notebook marked Word Journal.  On the first page, the students glued a nightly practice page with words on it.  These words correlate directly with the work we will be doing in reading class that week.  Please have your child read the words line by line to you each evening.   Sign and date at the bottom of the page daily to indicate the days you practice the words with your child.   Return the notebook with signatures on the due date marked indicated on the paper. We do practice these words in class.  However, a few children need extra practice at home to master the words. There will be a new list of words every week.  I will send them home with your child in the notebook on the first day of every week.  The children will be tested individually by me on the reignition of these words for a report card grade each quarter.  It shouldn't take more than a few minutes each night to ensure they get a good grade on their report card. 

Try to stay cool, it is going to be a hot week!

PS- One more reminder, School Pictures are Thursday, August 26.