Academics Are in Full Swing

Over the past two weeks there has been a shift in my focus.  I am confident that routines and procedures are well established and students are prepared for instruction.  With this in mind, the following steps have been taken:

1. Assessments in Math and Reading have been given and analyzed.
2. Students have been strategically placed in groups based on their application of the various skills I am focusing on  over the next few weeks..  These groups will be changing based on the focus skill, assessment results, and interest level.
3. "Goldilocks Homework" for Math and Reading has begun.  There are numerous homework assignments for each subject.
4. My expectations for quality of work is beginning to increase.  As I introduce new skills and strategies, I will expect to see these applied to their  daily work. 

A few other points:

Communication:  I have communicated with a good number of parents.  I appreciate the honest and open dialogue and am grateful for your support.  If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me.  It is my hope to touch base with each of you prior to October 1.

Important Dates:

• AR Goal - AR goals should be reached by 10/14.  I will be conferencing with each child to let them know what % of their goal they have earned and how many points are remaining.  Please ask them about this and encourage your child to work toward reaching his/her goal.
• School Photos- September 30 is School Picture Day :)

Happy Fall!

Week 1 - A Success!

Good afternoon,

Things in Room 203 are off to a great start.  We have been working on getting to know each other, establishing the rules for OUR classroom, creating good school habits, and learning the classroom routines and procedures.  I am very proud of each student.  

So far, we have:

1. Written the rules, discussed our class motto, and started to build the "family feel"
2. Almost mastered the morning routines: where notices go, where homework is stored, how to select your lunch choice, how to unpack...and pack up, etc.
3. Practiced transitions from one activity to another, learned about center rotations and applied what they learned 
4. Received personalized Chromebooks, experimented with Google Classroom, and took risks
5. Completed a Reading Assessment and received heir  AR zone
6. Took a few Quick Runs, asked/answered questions to relieve any worries, laughed and had FUN. 

That is a lot for the first week!  I will continue to reinforce the expectations and routines as I gradually increase the academic rigor in the classroom.  I will be discussing my philosophy, curriculum, and other important aspects of the school year at Open House on Wednesday September 7.  I hope to see you there.

In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email me.  I will get back to you as soon as possible.

Have a wonderful, long weekend,

Tricia Lasto