Back-to-School Letter

Dear Fifth Grader Parents:                                                                   September 9, 2011

                                   
Hi, I am your student’s New Teacher this fifth grade year.  I have had the pleasure of meeting several of you already, but allow me to introduce myself:  My name is Suzanne Smith.  I have been a part of the Maplewood community for the past 16 years as a parent to three, PTA board member, volunteer, and teacher.  I am excited to be here again this year! 

This is a second (third?  fourth?) career for me.  I have a Masters in the Art of Teaching (M.A.T.) from Lewis & Clark’s Graduate School of Education and I believe that children are naturally curious, intrinsically imaginative, and thrive when learning is active, meaningful, and differentiated. I strive to create a safe learning environment that celebrates the unique contributions of our students, their families, and our school.  I love themes and connecting our learning across the curriculum. 

Here is what your students and I will study this school year:

Literature Block

·        Reading Street with Scott Foresman including spelling, grammar, and comprehension

·        Daily Read-Aloud

·        SSR = “Sustained Silent Reading”

Writing

·        Writing with Grade 5 ‘Units of Study’ including

o       Personal Narrative

o       Imaginative Narrative

o       Informational Article  (Native American project)

o       Persuasive

o       Research (State Project)

Social Studies Units

·        Native American Unit and project, History of the United States, and State Project

Science/Health Units

·        Variables Unit, Earth, Moon & Stars Unit, and Microworlds Unit.

·        In the spring:  F.L.A.S.H.  (Family Life and Sexual Health)

Math

·        Bridges:  Portland Public School’s new math curriculum     

Art

·        Students will enjoy art integrated into the core subjects

Specials

·        P.E., library, and computer lab

Class expectations are beginning to shape up in A-2.  Maplewood practices the following four guidelines:  Be Safe, Be Kind, Be Respectful, and Do Your Best.  More on this at Back-to-school night on September 29^th. 

I am committed to life-long learning and for my students as well.  Learning occurs in many places – not just in the classroom.  You have a big impact on your student’s success – and I welcome you to volunteer in our classroom be it copying or leading small group literature circles.   

Thank you for sending your student with their own pencils, a self-contained personal pencil sharpener, 3 boxes of tissues, and cash or check made out to Maplewood for $35 for classroom supplies.  Also, thank you for completing the back-to-school bombardment of paperwork!

Email is the best method in which to contact me with any questions or concerns.  And don’t forget to visit our class blog!  I’m looking forward to the year with your student and you.

Suzanne Smith

ssmith@pps.net

http://smithclassof2012.blogspot.com/