Back to School! Welcome to an exciting year of learning ! As a teacher who has taught for 24 years, I’ve discovered that there are 3 very key components to a successful and productive classroom. These components include: environment, curriculum and motivation. An environment conducive to learning must be comfortable, accepting, and safe. This will describe our classroom. Furthermore, our classroom will be kept tidy and organized. Cooperative learning groups will facilitate learning and “ respect ” will be the underlining principle that will guide all activities. The fourth grade curriculum will be taught to motivate all learning styles. Hands on projects, integrated lessons, and a passionate teacher will ensure students are engaged in learning. Each student is valued and will be praised for their accomplishments. Individual goals will be set and frequently monitored. Students will understand that we are a community of learners and a good education can lead to a brighter future.

T is for Team “Together Everyone Achieves More” Let us work together in the best interest of your child! Communicate with me via , telephone, or planner pages. Stay informed by reading weekly newsletters, visiting our classroom website and school website. Volunteer to help in the classroom. Support the policies and procedures of the school and classroom. Monitor the progress of your student by reviewing the Friday Packets, homework, and planner pages. School Phone:

R is for Rewards, Rules, and the 4R’s Auctions, Gold Coin Parties, Free Time and other fun activities will be planned as a result of maintaining a positive learning environment and following the rules.

Rules  * Follow directions quickly  * Raise your hand to speak  * Use quiet movement  * Make smart choices  * Follow the 4R’s  Student will record daily behavior on their planner page. Planner pages require a parent signature daily. Parents will consistently be aware of student behavior. Each student starts the day at a “following directions” status. This status can change to “wow” or “perfect behavior,” as the student exhibits exemplary behavior. Behavior status can change in the negative, to the “almost there”, “time out”, and “stop and think” status. (pb) (wow) (fd) (at) (st) (to) Example

4R’s  Respect (self, others, property) *keep valued items at home  Refrain (hurtful words, hands, and actions)  Responsibility (be prepared with the tools to learn (Backpack, pencil, homework folder and independent reading book)*extra pencils should be kept in backpack labeled with name)  Right to Learn (be an active participant in the learning process)

E is for Earning Classroom Money  Students will earn classroom money for meeting expectations and completing various responsibilities. Students will then be able to spend this money on special treats, in auctions and/or purchase tickets to various fun activities. Students can also earn group vip’s, gold coins, free time, and Braggin’ Dragons

A is for Attendance  Each day is filled with many learning opportunities. Make-up assignments can be completed, but there are experiences and instruction that cannot be duplicated in a worksheet. Every minute of the day is utilized so please avoid students being absent, tardy and checked out early when possible. Homework can be accessed via classroom website.

S is for student  Like a jewel, each child is unique and brings a new perspective to the classroom. Curriculum, lesson plans, and classroom management will reflect this philosophy. Pressure will be applied when needed, yet that delicate hand will be ready to make that jewel shine like no other.

U is for Unique  Unique individuals may require some unique accommodations (accelerated learning, lesson modifications etc.)Accommodations will be discussed and agreed upon as a team.

R is for Routines  Routines promote independent work. Planner pages are a key element to the daily routine. Planner Pages are used periodically as part of student assessment. These pages require both parent and teacher signatures Monday through Friday. Please help your student practice daily spelling and writing skills using these pages

Why Planner Pages?  Provides time for small group instruction  Saves paper (multiple activities on one sheet, daily 20 minute home reading recorded on planner pages.  Allows parents to view what is happening during the day.  Provides a format to discuss daily lessons and review concepts

E is for Expectations  Each child is expected to perform to the best of their personal ability!

Student of the Week  Opportunity for students to share information.  Students will create a power point in class to share their favorites  Student will be line leader, library helper, and lead the pledge.

Fourth Grade Gems Daily Homework (worksheet page, spelling practice, multiplication practice, keyboarding, and 20 minute reading) Rock Research County Research and Fair Native American Tribes Research Reading Rendezvous Field Trips Read-It Island Butterflies Auctions Gold coin parties Portfolios Back Pack Ice cream …and much more

Reading  Students are required to complete a least one book every two weeks that fits within a certain genre.  As books are completed, students will earn pelts which can be used to trade for items during the “Reading Rendezvous”  Parents should monitor reading and help the student establish a routine  Read together as a family  Partner read with sibling and/or parent  Select “good fit books”  Make reading a priority  Mark and sign planner page after reading

Spelling  Spelling word cards will be given on Fridays and will remain in student desks to be worked on during the week.  Students can access the list via classroom website, so they may study these words during the weekend.  Posttests are given Friday mornings, taken electronically on Ipads

3-D Math  Math By Myself (Students will work on program “Think Through Math”  Math with a Partner (Students will play games that reinforce concepts learned)  Write About Math (Students will complete vocabulary and journaling activities) * Small group instruction will also be provided during this time.

Thank you for your attendance! Looking forward to a great year!