2. My name is Dina Spataro. This is my 13th year teaching elementary school. I started my teaching career in New York where I am originally from. Most of my experience has been at the primary level. I have a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master of Science in Technology. I trained and studied at Columbia University Teachers’ College in NYC where I received a certificate to implement Readers’/Writers’ Workshop.

3. 7:30-8:00-Morning Work 8:00-9:00-Math 9:00-9:15-Snack 10:00-11:15-Reader’s Workshop 11:20-12:15-Lunch/Recess 12:30-1:10-Writer’s Workshop 1:15-2:05-HAWKS (Differentiated Instruction) S.S/Science 2:15pm-Pack up/Dismissal

4. Our grading policy is a follows for grades K-2….. S- Satisfactory (80%-100%) N- Needs Improvement (70%-79%) U- Unsatisfactory (69% and below)

5. Each day your child will write his/her homework assignment in their Homework Agenda. I want the children to be responsible for knowing what the assignment is each night. This is also a great way for them to practice handwriting each day. Please help me by reminding your child to work carefully and neatly.

6. A great way for us to communicate is through email. Most days I am unable to check my messages during the school day. If there is a change in transportation please call the office as soon as possible and they will notify me. On Monday, your child will receive a weekly newsletter. The newsletter contains important information concerning activities and events that are taking place in the classroom and at school. The newsletter is also posted on my webpage for your convenience.

7. Mrs. Wilson and Mrs. Robillard (Class Moms) will contact you if volunteers are needed. If anyone is interested in volunteering on a consistent basis to help students with reading activities please let us know.

8. Conferences will be scheduled after the first quarter report card is sent home. I will send out a Sign-Up Genius through email where you may choose a convenient date and time.

9. If your child is out sick he/she must return to school with an absence note. You can also submit the note from the Woodland Heights website. The Student Absence Excuse Form in under Quick Links. This is super convenient!!!!

10. We have snack each day at 9:00am. Please remember to pack a healthy snack for your child. At this time I like to read a book from lots of different series. I want the children to be exposed to a lot of reading choices. Try to engage in conversation with your child about the series book we are reading.

11. Our class goes to the cafeteria to eat lunch from 11:20am-11:45am. On Wednesdays, second grade is permitted to buy ice cream. I am asking for your cooperation in allowing your child to buy ice cream on Wednesdays only. Thanks for your support!

12. The children will go outside to play from 11:50am- 12:15pm weather permitting. Please send your child to school appropriately dressed for the weather.

13. Our school district has a Pacing Guide which is district mandated. Each subject area is outlined and each standard is listed when it will be taught. If you would like a copy of the Pacing Guide please send me an email. I will get it to you as soon as possible.

14. Letterland is our second grade spelling program. The spelling principle is located at the bottom of each lesson/unit. Most weeks we will focus on List A and Tricky Words. Five diagnostic words will be added to the weekly test. After the 1 st quarter has ended some students will have an accelerated list.