Welcome to Fifth Grade

The mission of Hanna Woods Elementary School is to include the individual child in a safe, inviting atmosphere of communication and growth which will promote lifelong learning and responsible citizenship. The mission of Hanna Woods Elementary School is to include the individual child in a safe, inviting atmosphere of communication and growth which will promote lifelong learning and responsible citizenship.

Mrs. Birkenholz Mrs. Birkenholz 6th year at Hanna Woods as a 5th grade teacher Proud mommy of a 2 1/2 year old daughter, Mckenna Expecting in October Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Truman State University Teaching certificate from UMSL Currently working towards Masters in Mathematics with an emphasis in 5th - 8th grade from Webster University Graduate of Parkway

Ms. McDonnell Ms. McDonnell 3rd year as a fifth grade teacher Graduate of Hanna Woods and Parkway Graduated from Central Missouri State Former student teacher of Rita Hawkins Currently working on my Masters in Teacher as a Leader at Maryville University

Ms. Weber Ms. Weber 4th year teaching at Hanna Woods Grew up in South County Graduated from Oakville High School Graduated from Missouri State University Masters Degree in Special Reading from Missouri Baptist University Getting married in November

Homework Policy Homework Policy All homework should be turned in on time.

What happens if my homework is late? What happens if my homework is late? If homework is not turned in, it is the student’s job to fill out a late homework slip to be signed by the parent. A deduction of 3 % points will be taken from the assignment. If homework is not turned in the following day, the teacher will make a phone call home. This policy is subject to change.

Test Taking Policy Test Taking Policy Study guides will be given prior to test. In some circumstances, students will have the opportunity to re-take a test.

Science and Social Studies Due to our crowded curriculum, we will be alternating one unit of Science followed by a unit of Social Studies. This will eliminate a feeling of overload for our students, but it will also enable us as teachers to cover the curriculum more thoroughly.

Snacks Students are encouraged to bring a snack every day, including a water bottle. Please be sure your child is bringing a healthy snack each day. Examples: grapes, pretzels, graham crackers, animal crackers, an apple, banana

Student Planners Student Planners Students will be writing their assignments in their planners daily. Upcoming tests, quizzes, and/or projects will be noted in their planners up to one week in advance. Look for upcoming events highlighted in your child’s planner.

Friday Folders Folders will be sent home every other Friday with your child. Please be sure to review your child’s work each week.

Our Curriculum

Math We will be having a Math Night in the fall Math Workbook and Math Handbook

Science The Scientific Method Environments The Solar System Levers and Pulleys Weather and Water

Social Studies Geography Native Americans Explorers Colonial Times The Revolutionary War Government

Junior Achievement Ja Biz Town Students will be starting their own business

Reading and Writing Readers and Writers Build Good Habits Students should be bringing their reading and writing journals home every night

Our 5th Grade Webpage

Student Leadership Council Student Leadership Council All students are encouraged to participate. Requirements: a leadership essay explaining what makes them a good leader and two letters of recommendation Most SLC activities will occur during the school day.

Safety Patrol Safety Patrol Each class will have the responsibility of ensuring the safety of our student population during dismissal for one trimester. Ms. McDonnell: 1st trimester Mrs. Birkenholz: 2nd trimester Ms. Weber: 3rd trimester Students participation in this program will be recognized by AAA and students will receive certificates and membership cards.

First Grade Partners First Grade Partners Each class will be paired with a first grade classroom. The objective of this partnership is to foster a relationship with a younger student and to be a role model for our school.

Bullying Free Zone We have a zero tolerance at Hanna Woods for bullying. Please check out our 5th grade webpage for more information on bullying:

Terrific Tiger Expectations Terrific Tiger Expectations As the leaders of our school, 5th graders will be expected to exhibit the 5 tiger traits on a daily basis. If students choose not to follow our terrific tiger traits a warning will be given. If the behavior continues, an appropriate consequence will follow.

You are the missing piece... You are the missing piece... Your expertise and knowledge will make this a successful year. Please do not ever hesitate to or call your child’s teacher at any time during the school year. We strongly encourage to keep the lines of communication open. We look forward to growing with your child. Thank you for coming.