I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the fifth grade. As we begin the school year, I hope to establish open communication between school and your home. This is very important for your child's educations and should be a joint effort between all parties - the teacher, the parent, and the student. If at any time you have a question, please feel free to contact me at school (254-9814) or you may e-mail me at my school address: [email protected]. I try to check this a few times a day.
As fifth graders, all students should know what is appropriate behavior and what is not. When in doubt, please consult the student handbook. I feel students need to acknowledge that this is their classroom as much as it is mine, so we will be creating our class rules and consequences together in class. This method seems to work very well. Students are more accountable for their actions. This system allows them to make better choices. All students are required to adopt the rules for the classroom and commit to follow them. I will let you know what they decide.
Students will be receiving planners in which they will be required to write assignments in every day and any homework that needs to be completed. These planners will be a good communication tool since they go home every night and must come back every morning. I may occasionally write notes home in these planners if I feel it is necessary to keep you informed of your child's progress or behavior.
As fifth graders, we will participate in the D.A.R.E. program with a weekly lesson taught by Officer Grigg, a field trip to the Detention Home, and a graduation ceremony which you are invited to attend.
We are currently in our 2nd year in our new math series, Saxon Math. Each daily lesson will consist of basic fact practice, mental math, and problem solving. So far it has been quite challenging and rewarding.
Fifth grade will be a challenging and exciting time. I hope to prepare your fifth grader with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed. Many fun projects are in store, so I hope everyone is as enthusiastic as I am to start this great school year. I am looking forward to meeting you at our annual Open House and conferences in November.
Thank You,
Mrs. Orr