Tok Fourth Grade

 Weekly Greetings! Our first week back was great! We even have two new students, so we spent a little more time on class procedures than I had planned, but they settled into our routines quickly. I always like to start the year reminding each student how special they are, and have each one set a goal for the year. We spent a couple afternoons creating displays on the class bulletin boards to remind the class of their gifts and goals. In addition we began discussing the Six Keys, Growth Mindset (persevering when things get hard), and bullying. On our wall in the hall, the students have signed a pledge not to bully and to stand up for anyone they see that is being bullied. These values relate to a social and emotional foundation for successful school year.             Through the week I did some assessing to see how much the students retained through the summer. We also had some time to work with some new math tubs for hands-on practice. ...

Weekly Greetings! Vacation has come to an end, and our first week has arrived! This first week back will be about restoring our classroom community, valuing each other's strengths, and setting goals. I will also be doing a lot of assessing to see what the students have retained over the summer, so we can ease into the rigor of the fourth grade standards. In addition, it will give new students a chance to adjust to our classroom routines. On Tuesday, Jane Teague will be in to discuss digital citizenship since the students will be using computers to access adopted district curriculum. Beginning on Wednesday, we will also be reviewing "Six Keys" for fostering and maintaining high motivation and achievement. Everyone has a need to see these keys met, and we will address one a day. The keys are: Safety from fear of embarrassment or physical harm. Love and Belonging through inclusion, respect, and sincere caring. Freedom and...

                                                                                                                        Dear Parents, As a new school year draws near, I am excited to say that I will be with the same class this year as they progress to fourth grade. I truly enjoyed the group last year, and as we loop together this year I believe they will benefit from the relationship an...