Homework:
District policy states that homework is a vital aspect of learning as it acts as an important communication tool as well as a means for fostering responsibility and independence.
Math homework will be sent home most days of the week. We are beginning a new math program and the pace of the program calls for a test every 5th lesson. There will be no homework on the days we take a test.
Word Sorts will be sent home on a weekly basis. You are encouraged to help your child sort the words and practice with them each night. The words will be sorted (for a grade) on Friday at school!
Completed Work:
Your child will bring many things home from school each night in his or her Boomerang Folder. Please take a few moments to look through your child's folder each night. The folder is labeled "Left at Home" and "Bring Right Back." It can, at times, be unclear as to what should be brought back to school and what can be left at home. If work that your child completed has a star or sticker or any indication that I have looked at it, you may keep that at home. If your child brings home a worksheet that is incomplete and does not have any markings from me, please ask your child to finish it and bring it back to school.
Snacks/Birthday Treats
We will have a snack each morning at 9:30. Please send a healthy snack that does not require a spoon or that is not too messy.
Birthday treats are always a treat, but district policy states that they need to be store bought.
Behavior Expectations
Consequences:
Students are expected to practice using the 8 Keys of Excellence and to practice making choices that will allow them to become "The best version of themselves." While expectations for good behavior are high, consequences are in place should a "not so good" choice be made. A "not so good choice" can be defined as a choice that does not live up to the expectations set by the 8 Keys. An example could be talking while the teacher is talking. In this example, the student will be given a warning. If behavior does not improve, the student will receive a "Bummer" slip being sent home. I will contact you to discuss your child's choices should his or her behavior not improve.
Students also have nightly homework this year in second grade. If homework is not completed and returned to school, your child will bring home a "Homework Bummer" to remind them to bring homework back to school the next day.
Rewards:
I believe that positive reinforcement is an important aspect in behavior management. The whole class will receive a democratically chosen reward when our "catching compliments" mitt fills up! The prizes could be anything from an extra 10 minutes of art to an ice cream sundae!
We are in this together!
Please don't hesitate to call me if you ever have a question or a concern. I want to give your child every opportunity to succeed and working closely with you is one of the best ways to ensure that happens. Please support your child's learning at home by encouraging nightly reading. It is also a good idea to have your child practice using math in real-life situations. Cook with your child and ask him or her to measure, count your money jar savings together! The possibilities are endless! I am looking forward to a wonderful school year and am excited to get to know you and your children!