Welcome to 2013!

Is it already 2013?!

My expectations are set high for this second half of the school year.  I am expecting students to work harder and strive more than they did in 2012!  I am expecting students that had made poor choices, had bad attitudes, or poor grades to shake it off and start fresh.  I have LOTS of exciting and fun activities planned for the second half of the year, especially after the SOLs in May.  In order for your child to partake in any of these activities, they must fix what held them down in 2012 and make them better in 2013!

This is a very short week - listed below is what is planned.

The Page Turners book club meetings start this Friday at 8:00 AM.  You will need to drop your child off at the front of the building.  In order for your child to participate, they must have ordered or bought the book Wonder prior to our first meeting.  I will be distributing the books to the students who ordered them and provide a schedule of meetings and pages that will need to be read before each meeting.

Friday will also be Bling-Bling Day.  Students may come to school dressed-up in all of their bling-bling (jewelry).  The more bling-bling the better!

Friday will also be our first Friday Frenzy of 2013.  For the entire month of January, Friday Frenzies will end at 4:30 instead of 5:00. If your child is not picked up by 4:45, they will receive an "X."  Two "X's" and your child will no longer be able to attend.  Two students already have one "X" this school year.  As always, behavior and grades are what determines if your child receives a ticket or not.  I will now be looking at AR as well.  Your child will need to be reading and taking AR tests.  If they are not reading or taking tests, they will be eliminated from a ticket that week.

AR goals must be meet by the end of this month, January 25th.  If ALL students can make their AR goals, they will receive a cream pie to throw at any administrator of their choice or me.  Remind your child to read every night!  They don't want to be the ONE that holds the class down from doing this pie-in-the-face event!

Let's make it a great 2013! :)

After reading this, please write the following code in your child's homework folder...

HPPYNWYR

Merry Christmas

Thanks to all the students and parents for the gifts today - they were all wonderful!  

I hope everyone has a joyous holiday and be blessed to have one another.

Goodbye 2012...Hello 2013!!!  :)

Ho, Ho, Ho

Tomorrow is our last day before winter break!  There are few very important activities happening tomorrow.

1. SECRET SANTA -> if your child is participating, they MUST have their gift by tomorrow.  They will NOT receive a gift, unless they give a gift.

2. FESTIVE WEAR -> Students may come to school dressed in their festive wear!

3. SNOWBALL OLYMPICS -> This is our Friday Frenzy this week.  Only students who have been exceeding my expectations will partake in the three challenges (snowball fight, snowball stuff, and snowball race).  Good luck competitors.  

4. PAGE TURNERS -> If your child wants to participate in the Page Turners starting after Christmas, they must purchase the book Wonder.  Book orders are due tomorrow!

Let's have a great last day! :)

It's a Short Week

I'd like to take a moment and pay respect to all the people who were affected by the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.  May our thoughts and prayers be with them during this holiday season.

Wednesday is our Secret Santa.  Gifts must be under the class tree by Wednesday.  

We will be having a Snowball Olympics on Wednesday as well.  Three snowball challenges will be taken place (Snowball Fight, Snowball Stuff, and Snowball Race).

Book Orders for December are due Wednesday.  Any child who wants to participate in The Page Turners starting in January, must order the book Wonder no later than Wednesday. 

Lastly, Wednesday is a 1:00 early dismissal.  

After reading this, write the following code in your child's homework folder...

melekalikimaka 

End of the Week

As the week is coming to a close, there are a few important topics that need to be discussed.

1. Interims went home today.  Please review with your child and determine what your child needs to improve in and keep them accountable for their performance.  Sign and have your child return it no later than Friday.

2. Tomorrow is Thursday Throwdown - this event has the same procedures as any Friday Frenzy - over at 5:00.

3. A letter will be sent home tomorrow about letting your child have an Isle of Wight Gmail account.  There is a signature page that will need to be returned.  This Gmail account would be VERY beneficial for the classroom activities, such as 

- practice typing skills for the writing SOL

- practice formatting documents and basic keyboarding skills

- safe way to save documents, presentations, and spreadsheets

- collaborate with classmates on group projects

- access class work on ANY computer, at school or home - at ANYTIME (all you need is an internet connection)

- email your teachers and your teacher can email you

- organize school events, test dates, and due dates in the personal calendar

Welcome to the 21st century!!!

4. Friday is Snow Day!

5. Don't forget about Secret Santa next Wednesday!!!

The Page Turners

A book club is about to begin!!!

Starting after Christmas break, I will begin a book club called "The Page Turners."

Each month, I will be hand-selecting a high level interest book for students to read.  We will meet every Friday at 8:00 A.M. in my classroom.  Not only will we have a book talk, but we will also enjoy donuts and juice each Friday.

In order to be part of this club, your child will have to purchase the book-of-the-month that I select.  These books will be available through Scholastic (the classroom book order forms) each month.  I will be sending home a flyer about this book club on Monday along with the Scholastic Book Club flyer, highlighting the book we will be reading in January.  Your child must purchase the book in order to attend the meetings.  

The purpose of the book club is to get more students excited about reading.  By me selecting a book I think everyone will like, and having your friends reading the same book, and discussing about it, should intrigue others to want to read.

The January book will be Wonder by R.J. Palacio.  

It's Almost Christmas Time

This is our last full week of school before Christmas break.  Christmas break begins after our early dismissal next Wednesday.  Listed below are the events that are happening this week.

Interims will be coming home on Wednesday.  Please check your child's progress.  I want all students to increase their grades this nine-weeks from last.  We can do it!  These interims will need to be reviewed, signed, and returned no later than Friday.

Thursday will be our Friday Frenzy this week, called Thursday Throwdown.  This WILL be the last Friday Frenzy of 2012.  Tickets will be going home on Wednesday.  Thursday Throwdown has the same procedures as Friday Frenzy.  It will end at 5:00 and all students must be picked up by 5:15.  

Friday will be SNOW DAY - students may come to school dressed-up as if they were going to go play in the snow, go skiing, or any outdoor activity in snowy weather.

After reading this, please write the following code in your child's homework folder (this will help me determine which parents are reading the blog)...

LTTLSTNCK

No Way...It's December!!!

December has arrived!!!

On Friday, students selected their Secret Santa.  On Monday, students will share what their interests are.  This will allow students an opportunity to get an idea of what to get their Secret Santa.  Remember, this is called SECRET Santa - if anyone shall spill the beans to anyone, they will be removed from this activity.  A gift must be under the class tree no later than Wednesday, December 19th.

Monday night is a Westside Family Night.  The night will include a PTA meeting, Chorus Performance, and the Book Fair (The book fair will be going on all week.  On Wednesday morning, we will be taking a 20 minute trip to the book fair for students to purchase and browse.  They will be allowed to go all week, as long as they have money.)

This week's class challenge is WHY.  Each day, the class will be given an intriguing why question.  They will have 24 hours to research their answers.  The next day, they will submit an answer as a group and another question will be given.

There will NO Friday Frenzy this week due to the Westside 4th and 5th grade Winter Dance.  A letter was sent home last week about the dance (please refer to it if you have any questions).

After reading this, write the following code in your child's homework folder (this lets me know which parents are reading this and which ones are not) - thanks!

RNRDLPHRN

Secret Santa and More

This week the class and I have been discussing a classroom event coming up called Secret Santa.  This Friday students will blindly choose a student in the class.  After reading this and listening to your child this week, I will need your child to let me know on Friday if they will or will not be participating.  Listed below are my expectations.

- Friday, November 30th students will select their Secret Santa.

- Sometime on or before Wednesday, December 19th a gift must be purchased, wrapped, and brought to the classroom.

- I am expecting the gifts to be around $10.00.

- Students who are participating, will share with their classmates this Friday their interests, so others will know what they enjoy.

- Your child may not tell anyone, except you, who their Secret Santa is (last year I had three students who were exempt from this event because they either told another classmate or another Westside student).  It is called SECRET Santa for a reason.

- If your child will not be at school on the 19th, then their gift must be placed under our classroom tree before the day they leave for break.  They will either receive their gift before their last day or once they return from Christmas break. 

Please contact me if you have any questions about Secret Santa.

Other News...

This Friday will be the LAST FRIDAY FRENZY OF 2012!  Sadly, I will be busy for the rest of the Fridays until break.  Only 16 students and 1 one wild card will be invited tomorrow.  

- Crazy Hat Day is Friday and Book Orders are also due this day. 

Welcome Back

I hope everyone had a restful Thanksgiving break - only a few more weeks and it's Christmas break.

There are only a few items happening this week, and they all happen on Friday.

- There will be Friday Frenzy this week for 16 students.  We have two students that have earned a "X" for not being picked up by 5:15.  Remember, once your child receives two "X's" they will no longer be able to attend.  Friday Frenzy will end at 5:00.

- This Friday will be Crazy Hat Day - the crazier the better!!!

- Book Orders are due this Friday.  Students will receive a raffle ticket for every five dollars spent.  Winning ticket will receive a prize.  We are trying to have ALL students make their AR goal this nine-weeks.  If so, the class will get to throw pies at an administrator or myself.  This only happens if we ALL make our AR goals.  The best way to want to read, is students being able to pick out and own their own books.

- Secret Santa selections will be made Friday - more information about this event will be posted during the middle of the week.  Your child will also be relating this information to you throughout the week.  

After reading this, write the following code in your child's homework folder...

WHTDOUWNT4XMAS

Tomorrow

There are a few things going on tomorrow.

1. Class "Club 50" Party.  Bring in any treat to share with the class - the more the merrier!

2. Class Talent Show - this is for any brave souls that want to cast their talent for the class.  The class will be the judges and a winner will be declared at the end.  This is a closed door event.  I was going to open the door and allow parents to come and even be judges, but the class voted today and voted NO.  They would feel shy and not want to do their talent.  Sorry parents! :(

3. Pilgrims and Indians day.  Students may come dressed-up as a Pilgrim or Indian or both.  They may also give a thanks speech tomorrow as well.  

4. Big Blast Party for students who raised enough money on the Fall fundraiser or donated money to PTA.

5. Don't forget tomorrow is a 90-minute early dismissal.

Have a GREAT Thanksgiving!!! 

Gobble, Gobble Week

I hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving!

All report cards are due Monday - please review and sign envelope.  If your child received a conference letter, please read and sign.

Wednesday is a 90-minute early dismissal.  

The Big Blast Party is Wednesday for students that met the criteria needed from the Fall fundraiser.  If you haven't signed the wavier form, please do so - your child will not be allowed to enter, unless they have the form signed.

We also will be having a small party on Wednesday afternoon.  We are looking for treats, drinks, snacks, etc. to be brought in Wednesday.  Part of our party will be a classroom talent show.  A chance for classmates to share their talent.

Lastly, Wednesday will be Pilgrims and Indians day.  Students may come to school dressed-up as either a Pilgrim, Indian, or both.  Along with dressing-up, students may give a thanks speech to someone in the class (it may be more than one person).  

There is no school Thursday or Friday.

After reading this, write the following code in your child's homework folder...

WHTRUTHNKFL4

Report Cards

Report cards are coming home tomorrow (Thursday) and the envelope they are sent home in, must be signed and returned no later than Monday (the report card is yours to keep).

Some report cards have a conference letter attached.  Please read it in its entirety and return it signed.

If your child made the Principals List, they should stay there all year.  If they made the Honor Roll, let's shoot for the Principals List.  If your child did not make either Principals List or Honor Roll, let's do it this time around.

If you have any questions regarding the report cards, please don't hesitate to contact me in someway.  

19 - 7 (honor roll and principals list vs. neither)!  Let's increase that this nine-weeks! :) 

Weekly News

Happy Veterans Day to anyone who served or is serving in our military - thank you!

Thank you to all the parents that came out on Friday for Friday FAMzy - we had a blast!  There will be another one in the future.

Wednesday night is the annual Westside Staff vs. Sixth Grade Students Flag Football Game under the lights at Nike Park at 5:30.  Come out and cheer on your favorite teachers or students.  The teachers were victorious last year, I wonder what will happen this year...

Thursday report cards will be sent home.  The envelope must be signed and returned by the following Monday.  I am very proud of the class this nine-weeks.  We had 19 students in all make either the Principal's List (all A's) or Honor Roll (A's and B's).  Only 7 didn't make it!  However, I will not be fully satisfied until ALL of my students make either Honor Roll or Principal's List.  The new nine-weeks is under way - can we do it?

This week's classroom challenge is "Wacky President Trivia."  Each day I will provide my students with wacky president facts and they must determine from a list of presidents, who I am describing.  

There will be Friday Frenzy this week until 5:00.  There will be a limit of 16 tickets given out on Thursday.  Please make sure to pick your child up no later than 5:15.  Unfortunately, we had our first child receive a "X" this week for not being picked up on time.  Once your child receives two "X's" they will no longer be able to participate in Friday Frenzies.  Don't let your tardiness keep your child from the best reward this school year.  If you don't get off of work until 5:00, your child will not be able to stay after, unless you can make prior arrangements with someone else to pick them up.  I do Friday Frenzy out of the good of my heart to reward the students that work hard each week.  I am using my personal time to do this and am not getting paid.  It may be surprisingly, but I do have a life outside of school.  Please try your hardest to be at Westside no later than 5:15 - thanks.

Finally, there is a picture contest that I presented to my class on Friday.  This is not mandatory.  I asked my students to draw a picture or take a photograph of a cat or dog reading a book.  They can be real-life pets or stuffed furry friends.  If your child is interested, they are due Friday and I will submit them to Scholastic this weekend, where they will choose 10 winners.  Each winner will receive 100 free books of their choice.  It's time to unleash the artist within you!    

After reading this, write the following code in your child's homework folder for a prize...

GBLEGBLE

Oh, It's Friday!

Tomorrow is FRIDAY FAMZY!!!  A bunch of tickets were given out today.  We haven't had Friday Frenzy for four weeks and some students have been working VERY hard to earn a ticket this week.  If your child received a ticket, that means that you are allowed to come and play against your child (no brothers or sisters can play at this frenzy, but they are more than welcome to attend).  If you do plan on attending, meet us in the gym at 4:00.  We will be playing Medic Dodgeball (please have your child review the rules of the game to you prior to attending).  We will do a quick review of the rules before we play.  I wonder who will win, the students or the parents???  If your child didn't receive a ticket this time, there will be other opportunities throughout the year.  

Tomorrow is also Patriotic Day!!!

Mid-Week News

I hope everyone is enjoying their day off and getting out there to vote.

Grades have been finalized and report cards will be going home next week.  You can go onto PowerSchool and check out your child's final grades and their nine-weeks tests grades (Lost your child's login information to PowerSchool?  Contact the front office and they will send home a new sheet.).

This is just a reminder, that when you sign your child's calendar each night, your signature is signifying that you made sure that their homework was complete.  DO NOT SIGN, UNLESS YOUR CHILD HAS FINISHED THEIR HOMEWORK.  Last week we went to zero days of homework running (we were on 38 days straight of each child bringing in their homework).  The child that made us go to zero, their calendar was signed, but homework was not complete.  The class and myself were not very happy having to start our homework running back at zero.  Let's work together to make sure that doesn't happen again this year!

This Friday will be Friday FAMzy.  If your child receives a ticket on Thursday, you are allowed to attend and play (child vs. parents).  Grades and behavior are crucial in order to receive a ticket.  Good luck students! 

2nd 9-Weeks Begins

Monday will mark the end of the 1st 9-weeks and the start of a new one (report cards come out next week).  

Monday will be our last 9-weeks test in HISTORY.  Make sure your child has studied.  We did not have time Friday to vote, so students will partake in the mock election tomorrow as well.

There will be no school on Tuesday due to Election Day.

Friday will be Patriotic Day.  Students can wear red, white, and blue or something that symbolizes America.  Friday will also be Veteran's Day at Westside.  There will finally be Friday Frenzy this week too!!!  

We have no more mystery readers scheduled!  Please take a look at the calendar and schedule a Friday.  If you want to come read to the class, please fill out the form (click on the tab at the top of this page, labeled Mystery Reader).  Don't just show up - we won't be prepared for unexpected guests - thanks!

After reading this post, write the following code in your child's homework folder...

BOorMR?

Goodbye Sandy - We're Back!

After a couple extra days off, students should be well rested and ready to dominate some 9-weeks tests. Listed below is the schedule of tests...

Wednesday - Science

Thursday - Math and Writing

Friday - Reading

Monday - History

Each night, please help your child be prepared for these assessments.  An evening and morning review work wonders.  A good night sleep and big breakfast is magical.  Words of success to your child at night and before they go to school is powerful!  These tests are important towards your child's final grade in each subject and a way to show what they know.

This week's challenge is BRAIN BLAST.  For each 9-weeks test your child takes will be worth points towards your child's Skirmish of the Island group.  

100% = 25 points

A= 15 points

B= 10 points

C = 5 points

D and F = 0 points

Your child will be participating in an historic "mock" election vote Friday.  If students "vote" every four years as part of their education, they'll be more likely to vote as adults.  In 2008, more than 6 million students participated and the next president was correctly predicted.  Students will be given an "I VOTED" sticker to wear proudly, after they have casted their vote.  By Monday, results will be in to see who the nationwide mock election winner is!

Friday, students will be dismissing 90-minutes early.  All AR goals are to be met by the end of the day Friday.  Due to missing the first part of the week and the madness of testing this week, there will be no Friday Frenzy (FAMzy) this week.  There will be Friday FAMzy next Friday, November 9th!

After reading and understanding this post, write the following code in your child's homework folder calendar...

HPPYHLLWN

No School Tuesday

There will be no school Tuesday for students.  

As stated yesterday, please make sure your child is reviewing for their 9-weeks tests that will begin Wednesday through Friday.  Due to the weather, we will have very limited time for review in the classroom.  I will post tomorrow the planned schedule of tests and the weekly classroom news.

No School Monday

Due to the inclement weather, there will be no school Monday.  

This upcoming week is the final week of the first nine-weeks.  We will be taking our 9-weeks tests all week.  I will post the new testing schedule once I am updated.

Since I will be missing a day of review, please make sure your child is well-prepared for their reading, writing, math, history, and science exams.  Also, make sure your child is attempting to meet their AR goals.  

Have a great day off and I will post tomorrow, once I know more about this week.

Scholastic Book Orders Due TOMORROW!!!

Please remember to send in your Book Club orders!  They are due tomorrow!

You can view this month's selections and submit your order online, or you can return the printed order form with payment directly to me.

It's always a special moment to see an entire classroom bursting with excitement to open the book box, so place your orders soon!

P.S. When you place your order online, you'll help earn FREE Books for our class and you also get a $5 FREE Book Pick Coupon to use on your next online order!

Ordering online is fast and easy:

•  REGISTER at www.scholastic.com/bookclubs
•  ENTER the Class Activation Code.  J6M3N
•  CHOOSE from thousands of print titles, value packs, and Storia eBooks
•  SUBMIT the order to your child's teacher
•  EARN FREE Books for you and the classroom too!

Changes

Friday FAMzy this week has been canceled and moved to (tentatively) next Friday, November 2nd.  This day is an early dismissal (2:30) and it will end at 4:00.  Due to the Smithfield homecoming parade and game, it would be too much traffic and a lot of students wouldn't be able to attend this fun frenzy due to these events.

Westside is also participating in a modified version of Smithfield High School's spirit week.  Today was  character dress-up day, tomorrow is twin-day, Wednesday is professional dress, Thursday is decades (60s, 70s, 80s), and Friday is either pink, Westside colors, or Smithfield colors.

First 9-Weeks is Almost Over

As we are coming to a close this 9-weeks, please make sure your child is keeping up with studying/reviewing.  Next week, students will be taking part in their 9-weeks testing (schedule will be posted later this week).

This weeks class challenge is Fact or Fiction.  The class will be given a fun and interesting statement each day and the class must determine if the statement is a fact or fiction.

Book orders are due Friday.  Please take a chance to order some books for your child.  You may order through the book flyer or online (look below to get information on how to order online).

Lastly, this Friday will be our first Friday FAMzy.  If your child gets invited, then you may also attend. It will be the class vs. the parents!  Good grades and behavior are the only way your child will receive a ticket - good luck!

Have a great week!

After reading this, put the following code in your child's homework folder for a prize.

HNTDHSE

Reading

Yesterday, I sent home a letter regarding "Paws for Reading."  Your child must choose to side with dogs or cats.  I want each child to read at least 20 minutes a night and then log it into the log sheet I provided (date, how long they read, and any books they completed).  Please sign or initial each day your child does read.  At any time, go online with your child (www.scholastic.com/paws) to login the minutes read, learn more, and check for prize incentives and fun downloadables.  To get started on the website, click on GET STARTED under the Kids section (each student has a personalized user name and password, which I will provide to them on Wednesday).  The competition ends on December 14th.  Who will win, Dogs or Cats?

This is the standings as of right now...

Scholastic order forms were sent home today.  

Scholastic Book Clubs Ordering Information
www.scholastic.com/bookclubs
Class Activation Code: J6M3N

This month's Scholastic Book Club flyers are ready for you to explore with your child. Children read more when they choose their own books, so I encourage you to look at the flyers together.

You can return the order form and payment to me, or give online ordering a try. It saves time, offers more book choices, and earns extra rewards for the classroom!

Happy reading!

P.S. When you place your order online, you'll help earn FREE Books for our class and you also get a $5 FREE Book Pick Coupon to use on your next online order!

Ordering online is fast and easy:

•  REGISTER at www.scholastic.com/bookclubs
•  ENTER the Class Activation Code (J6M3N)
•  CHOOSE from thousands of print titles, value packs, and Storia eBooks
•  SUBMIT the order to your child's teacher
•  EARN FREE Books for you and the classroom too!

Lastly, the class LOVES the weekly MYSTERY READERS!  However, we are running out of people who are scheduled. This Friday is the LAST mystery reader scheduled.  Please sign-up and come read your childhood favorite book to the class.  I promise it is pain-free and everyone will love it!

Middle of October

Here's whats happening this week.

Wednesday is a 1:00 dismissal.

Please make sure your child is reviewing, studying, and completing their homework each night.  We are now well into the first nine-weeks and creeping the end.  More assessments and assignments are happening and grades are being strongly built.  

This weeks classroom challenge is PENNY WAR!  Each group will have a container on their table.  Groups are to bring in PENNIES (positive points) and bring in other coins (nickels, dimes, quarters) and dollars to donate to other groups (negative points).  At the end of the week I will count how many pennies (positive points) the group has donated and subtract it from how many coins and dollars (negative points) they were given from other groups.  The winning group is which group has the most positive points or least amount of negative points.  This challenge begins tomorrow and will end Friday.  All money raised will be donated to the classroom.  

There will be NO FRIDAY FRENZY this week due to Westside's Fall Festival.  Next Friday will be our first special Friday Frenzy - Friday FAMzy!  For any child that receives a ticket next Friday, their parents/guardians may attend (no brothers or sisters).  It will be parents vs. students next Friday.  Will your child be able to uphold their responsibility to earn a ticket?  Good luck!

After reading this, write the following code in your child's homework folder for a prize.

TRKorTRT

Pink Passion Tomorrow

Tomorrow is Pink Day!!!

Also, Friday Frenzy is happening tomorrow as well.  I may be inviting a few more students tomorrow.  The Friday Frenzy as always will end at 5:00!

Have a great Friday!

Acadmeics

Now that we have been in school for more than a month now, I am starting to see an academic gap starting to show in a few students.  If it starts as a gap now, it will only get larger by the end of the school year.  I am putting more than 100% into what I do in the classroom to provide your child with the best education possible and most importantly, I will NEVER give up on any child.  Some students just need that extra assistance and guidance when I am not available.  

I am asking all parents to have a pivotal part in their child's academics.  Help your child at night if they are stuck or confused on material, review with them their information, practice their multiplication facts, read to them, have them read to you, and most importantly, let them know that you believe in them and support them.  It is a magical difference, when parent and teacher work together for success in their child.

I have sooooo many students already being very successful this year (showing much growth from years prior), and I want ALL of my students to endure the same feeling of success! 

New Week

As of right now, not much is happening new this week.

Friday is PINK DAY!  I would like ALL students to be dressed-up in pink!  For whomever dresses in pink, will have their picture taken for the yearbook.

Friday Frenzy will be happening again this week.  It was a pleasure seeing new faces last week and hopefully we will see someone new this week.  Please enforce my rules and expectations at home and help me, help your child be successful academically by reviewing material with your child.

Math - practice multiplication facts and review material

History - review notes

Reading - AR

Some students just need a little bit more help and practice outside of school.

Please take the time and consider donating to your child's classroom through adoptaclassroom.org.  More information about this classroom assistance, is a couple of posts below.  

After reading this, write the following code in your child's calendar for a prize.

M3NWRPNK

End of the Week

Tomorrow is Friday Frenzy for 16 students.  These students had great behavior all week and never received anything less than a "C" on any assessment.  Please pick your child up at promptly at 5:00.  Last week was very close for a child and I don't want any child be banned from Friday Frenzy because of a parent's tardiness.  

Responsibility has been a huge talk this week in the classroom.  Some students are having a hard time with this (ask your child if this is them).  Forgetting their homework at home, not studying, and more.  It is very crucial that when you sign their homework folder that you are checking to make sure that they have completed their homework and that they reviewed/studied any necessary material.  Don't sign, if they have not completed these tasks!  Responsibility is one factor that is keeping your child from attending Friday Frenzy.

Tomorrow is Guess along with Pink Day.  

All interims are due tomorrow as well!!!

Have a great Friday everyone!

Adopt a Classroom

I have registered my classroom online at adopt a classroom.  Here donors can make donations to the classroom.  All donations are 100% tax-deductible.  All donations go straight to the teacher and nothing is collected from the company.  Adopt a classroom manages the funds, they don't come directly to the teacher.  I use the funds to shop online at hundreds of educational vendors.  Donors will receive impact reports on how their money was spent and how it has impacted the classroom.

Please go onto AdoptAClassroom.org for more information or to make your first donation.  Once on the website, locate FIND A CLASSROOM and type in the following information:  

Pick my classroom and begin supporting your child's classroom today!  

Thanks!

We're in October Already!

Can't believe October is already here!

As of right now, there is not a lot happening this week (changes may occur, please stay posted).

Interims (a mid-way report card) go home on Wednesday.  Please review the progress report with your child and have it signed and returned to me NO LATER THAN THIS FRIDAY!!!  We are a bit behind in a couple of subjects, but will be caught up shortly.  Grades are being posted as soon as the student takes an assessment or completes an assignment.  I like to provide the child and parent with immediate feedback. 

This week's challenge is "Guess."  On Friday, the class will observe a large jar full of candy.  Each group will guess how many pieces of candy they predict is in the jar.  The group that is the closet will win points for their group, and will receive ALL the candy inside the jar.

There will also be Friday Frenzy again this week, for the top 16 students this week.  Grades and Behavior are a must, and they must start working hard on Monday, not on Thursday when the tickets go home.  I would like to see some new faces this week.  Remember that Friday Frenzy ends at 5:00 - we almost had a child get their first "X" this week (their ride came at 5:13...cutting it close).

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the school is collecting Pink Yoplait Lids.  The class with the most lids at the end of the month...WINS!!!  Every Friday will be Pink Fridays as well.  By next Friday, I want the entire class to dress-up in PINK!!!

Lastly, amazing job to all the Mystery Readers thus far (please sign-up).  The students and myself are enjoying it very much and always look forward to Friday afternoons to see who's going to walk through the door and read us a story.  Very creative and intriguing approaches to sharing your books - thanks!!!

Let's have a great week! :)

Write the following code in your child's homework folder calendar for a prize.

LEVESRFLNG

End of the Week Reminders

Tomorrow is the last day for your child to submit a book order online or through the flyer.  The monthly book club drawing for a prize will take place tomorrow.

Tomorrow is also Bad Hair Day and Spirit Day at Westside.  Students can come to school with really bad hair and wearing Westside colors (Teal, Burgundy, and Gray).

There is also Friday Frenzy tomorrow until 5:00.  Please make sure your child is picked up promptly at 5:00!!!  I invited 16 and may or may not squeeze a couple more in tomorrow.  If your child received a bad grade on any assessment, they were automatically eliminated from attending.  Behavior is a must as well - they must be making the right choices.

Mystery Readers are happening each Friday at the end of the day.  If you haven't scheduled a date yet, please click on the tab labeled, "MYSTERY READERS."  I look forward to our reader tomorrow!!! 

What's Happening this Week?

Please read the entire post and check later in the week for updates and reminders.

 

Book orders are due by Friday.  The best way for your child to get excited about reading, is allowing them to choose their own books to read.

Scholastic Book Clubs Ordering Information

www.scholastic.com/bookclubs

Class Activation Code: J6M3N

You can view this month's selections and submit your order online, or you can return the printed order form with payment directly to me.

It's always a special moment to see an entire classroom bursting with excitement to open the book box, so place your orders now!

P.S. When you place your order online, you'll help earn FREE Books for our class and you also get a $5 FREE Book Pick Coupon to use on your next online order!

Ordering online is fast and easy:

•  REGISTER at www.scholastic.com/bookclubs
•  ENTER the Class Activation Code
•  CHOOSE from thousands of print titles, value packs, and Storia eBooks
•  SUBMIT the order to your child's teacher
•  EARN FREE Books for you and the classroom too

Friday is Bad Hair Day!  Students may come to school on Friday with some form of bad hair (not combing/brushing, spray painting, putting things in their hair, wigs, anything that would be considered bad hair and something you wouldn't want to wear in public).

There will also be Friday Frenzy this week.  Great job parents on picking up your child by 5:15.  No one has an "X" yet.  Sixteen tickets will be given out again this week.  Poor behavior / choices and/or poor grades (D's or F's) will automatically eliminate your child from a ticket.  Good luck this week!

After reading this, write the following code in your child's calendar on the date you sign.

LFESSWT

It's Friday!

Today is Friday and that means one thing...FRIDAY FRENZY!!!

I sent home 15 tickets last night.  I have a few more students that deserve a ticket and will be competing today for it.  The student that works the hardest will get it.  If your child receives a ticket today, they will make a phone call home (sometime after 3:00).  If they cannot reach anyone at home, they will not be allowed to stay after.  

Friday Frenzy ends at 5:00!  It is very important that you are outside the school at 5:00.  If your child is waiting for you and it's after 5:15, your child will receive an "X."  Two "X's" means that your child will not be allowed to attend any more Friday Frenzy's for the rest of the school year.  

Just a reminder that if your child has behavior problem or poor academics (D's or F's) they will not be allowed to attend.  Friday Frenzy is a privilege, not a requirement.  Your child has to EARN a ticket.  They don't just receive one for being in my class.  If your child is a potential for a ticket today or didn't earn one, they must work harder in the areas that are holding them back so they are not in this situation next week.  

Please make sure your child is completing their homework each night, studying, and following my 70 expectations out of the classroom.  All of that will only mean one thing...SUCCESS!!!

Scholastic Book Club

Dear Parents,

Sometimes the right book is all it takes to nurture a child's love of reading. That's why I'm pleased that our class will be participating in Scholastic Book Clubs this school year.

The Book Club flyers I'll be sending home each month are full of just-right, affordable books and Storia™ eBooks for every age and reading level.

Thank you for helping grow your child's love of reading and for supporting our class.

Ordering online is fast and easy:

•  REGISTER at www.scholastic.com/bookclubs
•  ENTER the Class Activation Code -  J6M3N
•  CHOOSE from thousands of print titles, value packs, and Storia eBooks
•  SUBMIT the order to your child's teacher
•  EARN FREE Books for you and the classroom too!

P.S. When you place your order online, you'll help earn FREE Books for our class and you also get a $5 FREE Book Pick Coupon to use on your next online order!

For every $5.00 that you spend, your child will receive a ticket for a drawing at the end of the month for a cool prize.  If you order online, your child will receive a bonus ticket automatically.  So, if you submit an order of $17.84, your child will receive 3 tickets.  If you submitted that order online, your child will receive 4 tickets in all.  Reading is sooooooo important and Scholastic has such a large selection of books at great prices.  Let's help our children get excited about reading!!!

Flyers go home tomorrow, but you can order anytime online.  All book orders are due by next Friday, September 28th!

New Week

It's time for the third week of school.  Listed below is what is happening this week (stay posted ALL week for updates and changes).

Monday through Friday is our weekly Skirmish of the Island challenge, which will be "Clue."  A staff member at Westside wrote five clues about themselves and now each group must determine who are these clues about.

There will be an assembly on Tuesday about 5th Grade Discipline.

Wednesday is an early dismissal day at 1:00.

Friday will be our next Friday Frenzy!  Just like last week, only 16 students will be invited.  How does your child get a ticket on Thursday to be invited to Friday Frenzy?

- Your child must work hard ALL week.

- There behavior must be exceptional, ALL week (classroom, resource, recess, lunch, bus, etc).

- ALL quizzes and tests grades must be above a "C" or above, ALL week.

- Your child must make the right choices, ALL week.

If your child can do that, they will receive a ticket on Thursday.  Friday Frenzy ends at 5:00.  Don't let your child receive an "X" if you are later than 5:15.  Great job last week parents!!!  Remind your child all week to try their best and make the bright choices each and every day.

Have a great week!

After you have read this, write the following code in your child's homework folder on their calendar on the date you sign, and your child will receive a prize.

NJOYLFE

Friday!!!

Friday has almost arrived!  With each passing day, I am becoming more and more proud of most of my students.  They truly are working hard and making the right choices.

Tomorrow is picture day.  Please make sure you and your child have discussed the pose and if you want to receive any pictures, they must be prepaid.  Our picture time is 10:00.

 Seventeen students received a Friday Frenzy ticket this week.  It was a hard choice.  If your child did receive a ticket, you must sign the bottom and return it with your child tomorrow.  The event ends at 5:00.  I will bring your child out to the front of the building to be picked up.  Please, please, please be on time.  As I stated earlier in the week, if your child is stuck waiting for their ride twice this school year later than 5:15, they will no longer be able to attend.  Your child may bring a change of clothes if they'd like.  For the other students that didn't receive a ticket this week, hopefully they can work harder next to earn one.  It is in your child's hands each week if they would like a ticket or not.  The choices they make throughout the week will determine whether they come or stay home.

The Week's Halfway Over

Thank you for any parent that came out tonight for the Back to School event.  If you weren't able to attend, this is what you missed.  I simply went through what I promise to you and your child, some classroom procedures (my expectations, homework folder, homework, organization - prong folders, the rewards and consequences (Friday Frenzy), responsibility) and parent, student, and teacher working together.

Tomorrow is Cow Appreciation Day (come to school in cow apparel - black and white, a full cow costume, etc.).  

Friday Frenzy tickets go home tomorrow as well.  Out of 26 students in my classroom, more than 20 have been working very hard and are striving to be one of the 16 students that gets invited.  Look to see if your child was one of the sixteen.  If not, ask them what they felt held them down (they should know).  If they don't get a ticket this week, make sure to remind them to work hard to get one next week.  

Its Been One Week

One actually week with the students is done (Tuesday to Tuesday).  In that week we have accomplished A LOT!  The class is adapting very well to all the expectations and procedures.  There are only a few minor bumps (not paying attention, etc.).  Remind your child that there is Friday Frenzy this week, and they will not be receiving a ticket if I have had to talk to them this week about a minor bump.  Only sixteen can get invited - WHO WILL IT BE?  

Tonight was our first night of actual homework (math).  I don't give a lot of homework - only an amount that I feel is needed (tonight, six problems).  Please make sure your child completes their homework and then sign or initial their calendar.  

Tomorrow night is Back to School Night - hopefully I will see you there.  

Don't forget Thursday is now Cow Appreciation Day, as Friday is our School Pictures (forms were sent home today - must prepay in order to receive pictures when they arrive).  

As the week moves on, the class will slowly begin more content and by the end of the week and the start of next, they will be full blown into all subjects.  SUPPLIES ARE NEEDED ASAP!!!

Thanks! :)

Change in Activities

Friday is suppose to be our Cow Appreciation Day.  However, Friday is now our school pictures.  I don't think students want their pictures taken as "cows" or have that be their school/yearbook picture.  

Thursday will be our Cow Appreciation Day and Friday will be our school pictures.  

Picture forms will be sent home tomorrow.  

The Second Week

The second week of school is here, which means...

- students must have all supplies

- students must know my rules and expectations

- students must know the classroom procedures

- students will slowly begin content

Listed below is what is happening this week.

Wednesday is Back to School Night at 6:30 in the auditorium.

Friday will be the student's Code of Conduct test.  Each student will take the test via the computer.  The test will be about twenty questions long.  Please review the code of conduct at home as I will at school. Students must master 100% on the test.  They will be allowed to take the test multiple times, until they master it.

Friday is also Cow Appreciation Day.  Students may come to school dressed up in "COW" apparel.

Friday will also be our first Friday Frenzy of the school year!  Only 16 students will receive a ticket on Thursday.  This ticket must be signed and brought back to school on Friday.  The event will take place after school until 5:00 in the gym.  Please make prior arrangements to pick-up your child promptly at 5:00!!!  I know the traffic can be congested at that time, but each Friday I need to have ALL students picked-up as soon as possible.  If your child is still waiting after 5:15, your child will receive a strike.  If your child gets two strikes, they will NO LONGER BE ABLE TO ATTEND ANY MORE FRIDAY FRENZIES FOR THE WHOLE SCHOOL YEAR!

Please sign-up for a slot for Mystery Reader.  Click on the tab at the top of this page and schedule a Friday that is available. 

 After reading this, write the following code in your child's homework folder on their calendar to receive a price:

DRMBG

Have a great week!

The 3rd Day

We have almost made it through the first week of school already.  I am extremely proud of some students today, who definitely stepped it up from the first two days of school - GREAT JOB!  However, we did have a couple students today regress.  They made mistakes - but I am hoping that after I talked to them, they will learn and move on.

Tomorrow is a very busy day.  We currently are in the 40's on the rules and should be able to get through them all before the end of the day.  Also tomorrow, we will be having a funeral (ask your child tomorrow night what we did and why) and a celebration event (ask your child what happened during this event and why).  As a class, we must be all on the same page with my expectations by the end of the day tomorrow.  Monday, we begin the content!

Please make sure that your child has ALL of their supplies by Monday.  It is very crucial that each child obtains these items as they are necessary for success.

Tomorrow's class challenge is...Island Spirit!  Remind your child to wear their group's color!!!

Lastly, homework tonight is to get pages 45, 47, and 48 signed in the Code of Conduct.  Please make sure that you are checking to make sure that your child has their homework complete.  Today we went to zero on homework running because a student didn't get his form filled out.  There are no excuses this school year, as we are getting older and must now accept responsibility for our own actions.    

The Second Day

The second day was smoother than the first.  We went over all the procedures, rules, and expectations that we discussed on the first day and taught only a few more rules.  The rules that were taught today are very important rules and rules that may be challenging for some to follow.

Most of the class is accepting the rules and learning them very quickly.  However, there are a few students that are struggling learning the rules.  I understand for some, that having rules and high expectations for them is new and may take longer for them to adapt.  All students should have all of my rules mastered by the end of September or sooner.  I am very proud of the class!

Homework tonight is to get the Data and Emergency Form (yellow) filled out by tomorrow morning.  There are a few students that don't have to fill these out since they are new to Westside and just filled these out when they enrolled their child.  Everyone else must fill these out, every year.  

I look forward to another great day tomorrow!!! 

The First Day of School

The first day of school is now in the books and I feel it was a success!  

We went over A LOT of information pertaining to my classroom procedures (how each day will be and my expectations), the many rewards and consequences, and 13 rules.  

Tomorrow we will review all the procedures and rules that were taught today and continue with more rules.

Please review these rules with your child by asking them what they learned today.  The more they practice these rules outside of the classroom, the faster and easier they will come to them.

Homework tonight was to get the PARENT INFORMATION SHEET filled out and returned tomorrow.   

Also, please make sure your child is bringing in their supplies no later than next Monday and they are matching the supply list that was give at the Meet n' Greet, also a copy was placed in your child's homework folder, and the list is below if you scroll down.

I look forward to another busy day tomorrow - I'll keep you all posted on how it goes!

Are You Ready?

Tomorrow is the start of the new school year!  

ARE YOU READY?

It will be a very busy day tomorrow as the class will learn the procedures and expectations, along with a lot of fun activities.  Your child will also be bringing home their homework folder that will be filled with important letters and forms that will need to be filled out throughout the week.

Make sure your child gets a good nights sleep tonight and a big breakfast, because I have a packed full week!

See everyone tomorrow!!!

:)  

Meet n' Greet

Thanks to all parents, guardians, grandparents, and neighbors that came out for Westside's Meet n' Greet.  I enjoyed meeting everyone and getting to know my class of 2012 - 2013.  I hope you all can feel my enthusiasm and passion for teaching and how much I will put my heart into what I do to give your child the best education possible.  This truly can be one of the best years of your child's life.  I look forward to seeing everyone on Tuesday and to a successful school year!

School Supply List

In preparation for this school year, I have prepared a list of school supplies that are essential to your child's education and success in my class this year.  These supplies are supplemental to the lessons and activities and well-being of all the students this year. 

- 5 Folders with Prongs

- Loose Leaf Paper

- 5 Notebooks of your preference

- Pencils and Pens

- Colored Pencils, Crayons, and/or Markers

- Highlighters

- Package of Dry Erase Markers

- Chalk (NO Sidewalk Chalk)

- Hand Sanitizer

- Tissues

- Baby Wipes

***Extra supplies will be greatly appreciated!***

All supplies must be brought in no later than the start of the second week of school - early the better!