PARENTS IN PARTNERSHIP! 

                           2011-2012

Hello, Parents and Guardians,

Welcome to the 2^nd Grade SchoolNotes Page!!

First of all, thank you to everyone who was able to attend the Parent Orientation.  As you know, I have sent you a letter that describes the curriculum and how I will approach it.  However, other things will be handled as we go.  That way, it is not overwhelming for anyone.

I would like to commend the students for following the morning work routine, writing homework assignments in the Planner, and packing their items to go home.  Please be patient with us as we ensure that everything is written in the appropriate place and no items are left at school.  I promise this process will become smoother as we go and you will be delighted by your child's independence. 

Things you can do to help the process:

1. Review the classroom rules with your child. (Especially if he/she has brought home a "yellow or red" face. If you ever need more specifics, feel free to contact me by email or phone the next day. 

2.  While I will reward the students in various ways, this year can be

a difficult transition because they are being introduced to "delayed gratification" and doing what is right "because it is right" not just because we want a certain reward or item.  Hence, their relationship with God will be forming.  Since they may find this difficult, please begin to incorporate your own "additional" reward system at home for earning blue and green faces at least 3 times/week (a special treat, activity, etc.)

Here are some things your child should "know" (ask him/her to explain them to you to ensure he/she understands them and can explain "why" they exist:

Classroom rules:

1.  Do not get out of seat without permission

2.  Do not talk without permission

3.  Pay attention to the teacher during instruction

Please discuss and reiterate these rules with your "little lamb" for smoother days.  Should your child have a "yellow or red" face in his/her "planner" book, one or more of these rules have not been followed.  In addition, the regular classroom guidelines must be kept.  Please refer to the handbook that describes these matters. 

Rewards/Consequences for Our Choices

1. Students that adhere to the classroom rules will recieve,

    but will not be limited to, blue and green face colors.

2. Students that do not adhere to the classroom rules will

    receive the following:

* a face that reflects that behavior has not been productive for the learning environment; usually, a brief note, note written by the student, or an actual school form will be sent home for a signature

*  A phone call from me or another member of the school personnel explaining the situation and/or offense

*  Actual school work, items, or snacks that have been sent home to be completed or kept at home because the student did not complete an assignment or has lost a privilege due to not following my instructions.

Grading Matters

Spelling tests: will occur every Friday except for holidays or other shortened weeks that will be announced.   The "Spelling Spree" bag is an excellent review choice on shortened weeks, snow days, extra work, etc.

Vocabulary tests:  will be given bi-weekly once they have been given, but don't worry, it will be announced.  The packet work will be done in school, sent home, and you will be able to review the words with your child prior to the test.  Remember, he/she does not need to be able to spell the word, but recognize the proper usage and meaning of the word.

*Science and Social Studies Graded Items

Specifically, any information, tests, or projects that need to be reviewed, studied, or completed will be sent home with detailed instructions and/or a rubric. However, the goal is to complete as much as possible IN THE CLASSROOM.  The goal here is for the "PARENT" to become the cheerleader and "encourager" as your child becomes a more responsible "STUDENT" who "listens to the teacher, follows directions, pays attention, asks questions, and participates in our learning COMMUNITY.

HOME REVIEW FOLDER: 

This folder will be sent home on Fridays (beginning 9/16/11).  The contents should be reviewed, signed, and returned in the envelope to be kept at school. 

Any other work may remain at home "after" tests.  If in doubt, always send it back and I will simply write "keep" on the top with my initials "DLL" in cursive.   

Last, but not least, thank you to those parents that have sent in "wipes" as requested from our "Wish List."   Please, please, please, be sure your child begins to bring in 5-10 "sharpened pencils weekly as this is one of the most "show stopper" situations that we have.  Believe me, we are moving and grooving and need to maintain our momemtum and focus. 

I want to assure you that I am delighted to have your children in my life, heart, and classroom!  We are transitioning into this new school year, slowly but surely.  Please provide the appropriate encouragement, support, and correction your child needs to succeed in our wonderful classroom!  Here's to a "UNITED FRONT!"

Love and hugs, 

Mrs. Le Grand