Welcome to first grade! I am excited to have the opportunity to teach your child. Together we will have a wonderful year full of exploration and learning.

Communication between home and school is very important. The blue folder is our communication link, and should be brought to school daily in your child’s backpack. The inside pockets of the folder are conveniently labeled “Return to School” and “Keep at Home.” This should help to improve your child’s organizational skills and ensure communication. Please look for the blue folder every night except Friday; on Fridays I will keep the folders to prepare them for the following Monday.

The school agenda book enables teachers and parents to communicate about what happens in the classroom and will be sent home every day. This agenda book will include comments about your child’s behavior and academic progress, as well as weekly spelling words. This book should be signed and returned every day.

Many skills and concepts taught in the classroom are reinforced through homework. A homework packet is sent home each Monday. The packet contains homework for the entire week, and it is due on Thursday of each week, unless otherwise marked (see Schedule/Homework and Calendar). Being aware of homework assignments in advance should help you incorporate homework into your busy schedule.

One assignment is to read every night. Each Wednesday, please fill out the pink reading slip in the book baggie and return it to school with the book. As part of a nightly routine, it is very important for you to read with your child. As your child learns to read, have him or her read aloud with you and to you. This will help build reading confidence and fluency.

Our class has lunch at 11:30-12:00. Feel free to come in and eat with  your child. We have designated family tables by the windows in the cafeteria where you may sit.

Your participation in your child’s first grade experience is welcome. If you have any time available for volunteering please contact the P.A.L.S. organization. Many times there are projects that require a lot of prep work, like cutting and tracing, which can be done at your convenience, and I always appreciate help in organizing materials in the classroom or office.

Lastly, I am looking forward to seeing you throughout the year for conferences and special occasions. I will do everything I can to make this a great year for your child.