First Grade Open House Welcome to Open House and the First Grade Classroom. We are anticipating a busy and rewarding year. Among our classroom goals this year are: enhancing our listening skills, becoming independent and responsible workers, and being good citizens and neighbors to our schoolmates. Our primary academic focus will be on establishing a firm foundation in the areas of reading, writing, and mathematics.

Our Daily Schedule Our days are busy. A copy of our first grade schedule is included in the packet of information you are receiving. Assisting in our classroom this year is Paraprofessional Holly Hawley.

New Math Series We will be using Expressions this year, as well as emphasizing basic facts through timed tests. Your child will need to select a homework buddy. At a later date you will receive a login for Think Central, an online math site that reinforces our curriculum.

Word of the Week One classroom word is assigned to the first graders to be shared orally at the beginning of the week. The word will be related to our studies and is designed to increase their vocabulary. Students need a composition notebook to record their vocabulary words and its definition. These will be sent home with the homework folders at the end of the week. You can find the assigned word-of-the- week printed in the weekly newsletters.

Monthly Reading Program The books can be read independently by the student or someone may read aloud to them. Reading homework books count. Students can also earn a trip to the treasure box in September, April, and May. Begins in September Ends in May Students will need to read 10 books each month. Certificates for individual pizzas will be sent home as requirements are met in October-March.

In the news… Each week a newsletter will be sent home from the elementary office. In addition a class newsletter called “First Grade Feats” will be sent home to keep you informed of our classroom activities and needs.

School bags! Please check each night for notes and homework. Go over their papers and celebrate their successes. Please tell your child if you place something inside for Kelly or me. Involve them in packing and unpacking their bag to instill responsibility.

Homework Envelopes will be sent home on nearly a daily basis with activities and directions for reinforcing math, reading, and writing skills. Please encourage responsibility by returning them the next day. Reinforce your child’s reading skills by practicing the vocabulary words and listening to them read often.

Supplies, Visiting, Medications, Etc. We appreciate your help in making sure we have our necessary supplies throughout the year. You are welcome to visit at any time. Please buzz in at the front door where you will sign in and receive a pass at the window. You can login to Power School to check on your lunch bill status. Medications are administered by those who have been trained. Refer to the student handbook. We love to celebrate birthdays in class. A list of suggested treats will be sent home at a later date.

Portfolios These are collections of the student’s language arts work. Portfolios will be sent home during the year to celebrate your child’s accomplishments and progress. These will be yours to keep at the end of the year.

Character Counts We will learn about and apply the character pillars, including trustworthiness, caring, respect, citizenship, responsibility, and honesty. Project Wisdom will encourage your child to make wise choices, while developing positive self-talk and making affirmations. Please be sure that you and your child sign and return the anti-bullying pledge form.

Assessments We will be assessing student progress throughout the year. Evaluations include: DIBELS, Classroom Subject Areas, State Standards.

Things That Matter Most! We want each one of the first graders to experience success in their learning endeavors, in order to establish a positive perspective for lifelong learning. Thank you for taking an active role in your child’s education. Remember that your child’s school is also your school. You are welcome to visit and participate in our classroom activities. I welcome any questions or ideas you might have. Please feel free to contact me at school or home.

Class of 2025 We are looking forward to a great year! Hooray for School!