Dear Families,

We are working hard during these hybrid weeks to get to know students, assess strengths and needs for academic programming, build classroom community and adjust to classroom procedures. In addition, I’m teaching students how to navigate in our new online learning system, Brightspace.  Considering how long these kids have been out of school, they handled week one like pros!  Their joy in being back was heartwarming, truly.  Kids are resilient and they showed me that last week.  The more we all model positive attitudes for them around mask wearing and safety measures, the easier it will be.  

                                  A couple of odds and ends as we begin Week 2! 

*We are starting with completing the grade 1 math and spelling programs for now.  Going straight to the second grade curriculum is risky in that, for most kids, they need those foundational lessons to move forward successfully.  As with anything in teaching, I will observe, assess and make changes flexibly, as needed.  

*Check with your child to be sure they have earbuds/headphones and that they are working okay for them (some seem to find the earbuds uncomfortable).

*Our lunch is later than we are used to.  Kids need a hearty morning snack.  We are eating snack outside so please send a SPOON in your child's lunch box if they have a snack that requires a spoon as I can't easily go back inside to get one for them.  

*Please check in with your child about how their mask is fitting.  Some aren't snug enough and fall under the nose every few seconds.  A different shape or variety might do the trick.  Most kids will have a sense of whether or not this has been a problem for them.  

*I am sending a two sided review page for work on home days, plus a book or two. These can come back on their next school day. Students who want to do more can login and do Lexia reading on their chromebook. (I highly recommend this!)  They have all completed the pre-assessment in that program.  We are working on IXL diagnostic assessments a little each day that we are in school, so that program can "get to know" each child in math and language skills and then develop an individualized learning plan for them. 

I know that this is not an easy time for parents with school and work schedules colliding.  Please reach out with any questions.  I check email often and will respond as quickly as I can.  

Excited for Week 2!  

:) Beth