2. My career began as a third grade teacher; which I taught for six years. I also taught Reading Recovery for two years, I am looking forward to an exciting new year. I am married to my high school sweetheart, Blake. In my free time I enjoy spending time with family of friends, going to the lake, and playing with our dog Sadie.

3. The school day begins at 8:00 am. We let students into our rooms at 7:45 am to begin their morning routine. Students must be in our classroom by 7:55 am or they will be marked tardy. Any student that arrives prior to 7:30 am should report to the gym if they do not want breakfast. If they want breakfast, they must report to the lunch room. If you arrive after 8:00 am, please report to the office for a late pass. Parents must fill this out.

4. Our Related Arts scheduled time is 9:10-10:00.  Monday~ Art  Tuesday~ PE (Don’t forget to wear your tennis shoes)  Wednesday~ Dance  Thursday~ Drama  Friday~ Music Tuesday~ W2~Library (8:20-9:05) Friday~ Guidance (10:05-10:55) Tuesday/Thursday ~ Strings

5. Lunch time is from 11:29-11:54. Feel free to join your child for lunch anytime. The class welcomes you to sit at our lunch table so that no child feels left out. We ask that if you bring birthday treats you do so during lunch time. No outside fast food allowed. Guest Lunch: $4.00

6. Students will have recess daily, weather permitting. We will rotate weekly in three different areas: playground, blacktop, and field.

7. Students are required to learn ten spelling words each week. Mrs. Makison’s ABC’s explain the spelling test. Every Monday, students will get a Spelling Contract. Each student will have a notebook where they keep their spelling contract. There will be direction included. This will be turned in on Friday.

8. In Math, there are less standards so that we can go deeper with the content that we do teach. In ELA, I will be implementing the Daily 5. * Please make sure to read more informational text with your child.

9. This year, we will teach one subject unit at a time in order to shift our focus more on making Math and ELA more rigorous. In Science, we will explore pushes and pulls, matter, changes, life cycles, and weather. In Social Studies, we will learn about how history plays a large role in our culture and who we are today. Students will learn more about our community, government and leaders, contributions of historical figures, traditions, and the way our economy operates.

10. ITBS and CogAT testing will take place in late October and early November. ITBS: Iowa Test of Basic Skills is a nationally normed test in ELA and Math. CogAT: Cognitive Abilities Test is a group administered K-12 assessment intended to estimate students’ learned reasoning and problem solving abilities. Both of these test are used for gifted and talented placement.

11. This year letter grades are given. Homework assignments are considered review, so they will be given a check, not a grade. Power School enables parents to check grades on line. Grading Scale 90-100 A 80-89 B 70-79 C 60-69 D 59 and below F

12.  students are responsible for copying in the morning  once homework is completed the homework sheet should be initialed by an adult-I will check this daily  homework is turned in first thing in the morning  if homework is not completed students earn a negative point  spelling each week using all ten words  reading test each week on story  consistent homework: Spelling Contract (Monday)

13. Students will be earning tribal points for their assigned tribe. They will also have opportunities to earn positive points on Class Dojo to spend on candy, passes, or prizes. I have included an explanation of this in your packet. Students will earn negative’s for bad behavior, missed homework, and irresponsibility. They will walk a lap for every negative they receive that day.

14. I believe that through communication and teamwork, together we can ensure your child is successful and enjoys learning. Please Feel free to contact me by email (jennifermakison@andersonfive.net), school phone (260- 5090), or Class Dojo. Due to teaching I may not respond right away.jennifermakison@andersonfive.net Important information regarding the classroom or tests will be posted on my website weekly. Please let me know of any number changes.

15. We are looking into an appropriate field trip for our grade level. Once we find the right one, we will let you know.

16. Homework Sheet: This will be found in the back of your child’s homework folder. Please check it daily. You will find test dates, important dates, homework, and personal notes. Please initial the block for each day. Strings: Your second grader has a new opportunity this year. Please consider letting your child sign up for strings. This is a great program for all students. Box Tops

17. for taking the time to attend orientation! Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be a part of your child’s life. I look forward to working with you and your child this year. It is going to be a wonderful year filled with exciting learning and activities! Please make sure that you sign up for Class Dojo. This will keep you updated on your child’s behavior and what is happening in our room!