Please Note:  The COVID-19 pandemic and Accelerated Education (LMS) have significantly changed these guidelines.

Questions may be directed to [email protected].

 

What can I do to ensure my child's success?

 

Please require your child to share the contents of his/her "Take Home" folder with you.  This folder is utilized as a means of communication from teachers and the school district to parents/guardians.  Please take time to carefully review all items inside this folder and insist on your child bearing the responsibility for clearing its contents out on a daily basis.  Pockets are labeled to assist students in returning any necessary paperwork.

 

Ask your child about daily assignments and express interest in the assignment book and paperwork they bring home.  There should be study guides, along with spelling and vocabulary lists.  Watch for paperwork that may require your signature.  Encourage them to read books and magazines that they enjoy.  Share books by having them read aloud and ask them questions about the text.  It is essential to stress the importance of lifetime learning!  Time that you dedicate to these simple tasks sends a strong, unspoken message that your child's academic success is important to you.  Children tend to live up to parents’ expectations.  Consistency will yield positive results.

 

If you have not already done so, please familiarize yourself with The Seven Habits.  Your child will benefit if you encourage them to practice and apply these important habits!

 

What is the best source of information regarding homework assignments and test dates?

 

The best source of information is his/her assignment notebook.  All students are expected to thoroughly and completely fill in the assignment notebook.  Class time is devoted daily to this task.  Students are provided with assignment information, and they are required to copy it exactly as projected on the white board.  

 

Specific assignments are included along with books and materials that students will need to take home to complete the work.

 

Students are required to utilize a color-coded system of pocket folders to aid them in maintaining the study guides and materials they need for classes.  These folders are provided by the teacher and labeled according to subject area.

 

One folder should contain all language arts materials (Reading,Greek & Latin Root Words, Spelling and English).  Green folders should contain all Social Studies materials, yellow folders include Science materials.  A separate “Take Home” folder (parent provided) will include handouts from the district, book orders, previously checked homework, and graded quizzes and tests.

 

Please support your child's education by maintaining high expectations regarding these essential responsibilities.  This assignment notebook is a valuable tool for organization and academic success!

 

When are subject area tests administered?

 

When the class is working in the reading text, tests are usually administered very two weeks.  However, if the class is reading a novel, testing will be determined by the pacing of the content.  Spelling is alternated weekly with Greek & Latin Root quizzes/tests.  Lists/Study Guides for Greek & Latin Root words are provided at least a week prior to assessments.    

 

Science assessments are generally administered at the conclusion of each major concept or unit.  Vocabulary/Study Guides are provided well in advance of assessments.

 

What are the teachers' policies requiring signed paperwork from parents?

 

In general, assessments (quizzes and tests) on which a score of D or F has been earned must be signed by a parent/guardian.  Students are usually granted two school days for the return of such paperwork.  This is one avenue of communication with parents regarding student progress.

 

What resources are available so that I can monitor my child's progress?

 

Grades may be accessed through Progress Book. A link is available on the school district's web page.  

 

What should I do if I am unable to access Progress Book?

 

You may call the Technology Office and speak to a secretary who will be able to assist you with obtaining access.  Her extension is 4024.

 

What instructional strategies will be used in my child's classroom?

 

Students will experience whole group and small group instruction.  Content will be differentiated to address various ability groups within the classroom.

 

What type of seating arrangement is in my child's classroom?

 

Students are generally seated in small groups.  However, this arrangement is subject to change throughout the year.

 

What resources are available to help my child learn content that has been covered in the classroom?

 

Content has been entered into spellingcity.com and quizlet.com.  Your child knows how to access these sites with their user name and password.  These sites can be used to practice Spelling and Vocabulary words including Science. 

 

Is it necessary to contact my child's teacher if he/she will be absent from school for the day?

 

In the event of your child's absence from school, it is not necessary to contact the teacher.  When attendance is taken each morning your child's absence will be noted.  Normally, an assignment paper will be completed during the course of the day, and any paperwork or handouts from the district will be attached.

 

When are excuses for absences from school due? 

 

Documentation including the date, reason for absence, and parental/guardian signature should be provided on the day the student returns to school.  A handwritten note is acceptable.  As a courtesy, the teacher may choose to provide an excuse blank as a reminder or for parent convenience. 

 

What should I do if my child is absent for the day due to an appointment or illness, and I want to pick up assignments?

 

Parents may contact the secretary in the elementary office or send an e-mail to me regarding assignments for absent students.  Every attempt will be made to prepare assignments for pick up at the office.  However, this may not be possible due to the teacher's schedule or other unforeseen circumstances.

 

What is the district policy regarding family vacations during the school year?

 

Parents or guardians requesting permission for students to be absent from school for a vacation must complete a vacation approval form, stating the reason for the request and the duration of the absence.  Parents or guardians of the students must appear personally in the office of the school principal to sign the vacation form.  Retroactive requests will not be considered.  Please refer to the Student Handbook located inside the front of your student's assignment book for additional information.  Please do not request assignments from the teacher without receiving prior approval for the vacation from the principal.