Thursday, January 30, 2014

Honoring Pete Seeger

 

Pete Seeger was a great American storyteller and songwriter.  In honor of his talents and contributions, today we read Abiyoyo and watched this wonderful youtube version of his song and story. Take a look! Your family might enjoy searching for more books and songs, such as This Land Is Your Land, and celebrating Pete this week.  Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlDGHEk68XI

 

 


Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Time For School!

Most students arrive to school at 7:45.  They have a series of daily responsibilities to take care of in the classroom during the time from 7:45-8:00.  This includes unpacking and putting away belongings, saying hi to friends, reading a morning message, preparing materials such as pencils, paper and books, and completing morning work.  You wouldn't believe how efficient they are!  When students arrive later than 7:50, it is quite difficult for them to catch up on the opportunities that have already passed.  Yes, 5-10 minutes can make all the difference!

Please make every effort to have your child either ride the bus to school OR arrive to school at 7:45 and in the classroom by 7:48-7:50.  This way they will not be caught in the hall during the announcement and moment of silence.  This will also help your child feel prepared and part of the class right away each morning.  Some students have trouble acclimating to the routine once they have "missed a step."

We always do whatever we can to welcome and support the students that arrive a little late, but we need to try to prevent tardiness from becoming part of the normal routine for any child.  As we move into the third quarter of the school year, we will be using our morning work time to complete important mini-lessons and other practice that will support our lessons throughout the day.  It will also become a time for reviewing skills as we reach the end of the year. in the fourth quarter.

Thank you so much for your constant support!

Congratulations!

Congratulations to Eddie!

Eddie will represent our class in the Brownsville Spelling Bee this month. Be sure to wish him luck and offer your support and encouragement if you see him.  He will compete against one student from each of the 3rd, 4th and 5th grade classes.  He's excited and ready!