Our Classroom

I am currently working on the furniture arrangement in the classroom and working out a theme for our classroom.  We have been assigned the color yellow.  I am thinking that means we need a little sunshine in our room. 🙂  Here are some images of our classroom

Policies

At Open House be sure to pick up my colorful policy pages to provide some insight into homework, behavior, and much more.

Arrival/Dismissal 

• School starts at 8:20 am.  Students are usually in the classroom slightly before this time to allow them to unpack and get ready for the day.  Please be sure to have your child to school on time so that they may have a chance to settle in and be ready for a great day.  It’s always hard coming in a little late.  I watch tardy students take a longer time to feel at ease and ready to begin their day.
• School ends at 3:00 pm.  Although, we will release students closer to 2:55 pm. Nothing is worse than not knowing how a child is going home for the day.  The sooner you know your plans have changed and the sooner you notify the office, the better.  Send in notes at the beginning of the day or call into the office.  If you are relying on email, please note that I may not be able to check my email after the lunch break so it’s better to let the secretaries know.

School policies can be found by looking through our district’s handbook.

Behavior

There will be a behavior calendar in your child’s binder.  Each child will begin on blue.  Being on blue signifies that they are reaching for the sky.  Students are coming to school with the goal of cooperating with others, trying their best to participate and complete any work, and being kind to themselves and others.  If they end their day on blue, they will receive a stamp on that calendar day. They can only receive a stamp for being on blue. If there are concerns with minor behavior disruptions I will document on the calendar any concerns.  If a pattern of disruptive behavior develops or if the behavior is severe, a phone call will be made and/or email will be sent.

Birthday Treats

Although birthday treats are great, they can also disrupt the flow of learning for as much as 20 minutes (getting ready for the treat, passing them out/singing, cleaning up, and settling down and refocusing on learning).  Nonfood items can be a great alternative and can be handed out at the end of the day along with a a class round of singing Happy Birthday.  Each year I have students with a variety of food allergies or diet restrictions that may complicate what treats  can be brought in to share.