| Hello! I am excited to be taking your most treasured possession (your kid!)
on an adventure through our world. Our standards are provided for your
perusal. I can be reached at 361-6464 either before or
after school, or during our planning time from 12:20-2:00. My website is
sarasotamiddleschool.com and then go to the Leviathan site for homework
info, upcoming projects, etc. My e-mail is laurie_akin@sarasota.k12.fl.
GRADING: Your child is expected to keep an ongoing notebook with the
current grade for your inspection at all times! I use a weighted
cumulative point scale of projects, presentations, test/quizzes and class
participation/completion which we convert to the 100% scale. Writing daily
homework in their agendas is required and will be graded periodically. The
homework will also be posted on my website. Students will
have daily quotes as bellwork. They will use expository and
persuasive skills to write a short responses to the quote. This may be
finished at home if absolutely necessary, but the goal is to try to quickly
write a response in approximately 10 minutes as practice for FCAT Writes in
Feb. Late work is unacceptable, although partial credit may be given for
big projects Upon return from an absence, the student is responsible for
seeing me during Bellwork for makeup work. Occasional signatures (like
THISONE!) are as important as any other academic assignment. This ensures
that your child is taking responsibility for relaying class expectations to
you. Students acquire "stamps" in my class by demonstrating positive
actions and attitudes which may be cashed in for one free homework passes
or "oops" (poor) grade per marking period, and special treats TBA! :)
MINI PROJECTS: REQUIRED from ALL students for the first three marking
periods. Several choices will be provided. These projects employ the
kinesthetic learning style (students will take an inventory to learn their
strongest style) which is favored by many students, and will help all
students practice following directions accurately. Minis make history come
alive and can be verrrrrrrry tasty! :)
POWER PROJECTS: These are independent research projects REQUIRED for
students desiring an "A" in social studies. They count as extra credit for
any student completes a project. Students are expected to choose a topic
being studied during that marking period, expand upon it, and teach new
information to the class. Presentations should have some type of visual
product. Presentations and products are scored for detail, accuracy,
research, class involvement and creativity. They must have prior teacher
approval and designated presentation date, and must be completed
independently or with friends from our team AT HOME. A bibliography
expectation sheet will be provided. Possible methods of presentation may
include, but are not limited to, the following:
3-D models
Puppet shows/Skits
Maps/Charts
Guest speakers (County approved)
Written/Oral Reports
Class games
Dioramas/Mobiles/Collages
Demonstrations
Video/Computer/Presentations
Diaries/Journals
Time Traveler Bios (Costumed)
Artistic/Musical Performances
Edibles
You-Tell-Me?
I have seen and discussed this overview and the expectations and policies
with my child/parent, and I understand and will follow the requirements for
this class.
_____________________________ ______________________________ ___________
Student Signature Parent
Signature Date
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Personal Bio
I am Wisconsin born, but grew up in Orlando even before the Mouse was
there. My heart's desire has always been to be a wife, mom and teacher. I
have been blessed to experience all three. I am beginning my twenty-eigth
year of teaching in Florida public schools, my twenty-fifth at Sarasota
Middle.
I began my career in Gainesville, taught one year in a local Christian
school when my kids were little, and have been at Sarasota Middle since
1984, so your kids are in capable hands! I have taught fourth and fifth
grade encompassing all subjects, and language arts and social studies in
middle school.
I received my BA from UF in 1973(Go Gators!), my MEd from USF in 1986(Go
Bulls!), and my National Board Certification in 2002. I believe strongly in
being a lifelong learner. I was chosen as the Sarasota County Social
Studies Teacher of the Year in 1986 and 1991.
Tim, my husband, is a teacher in Manatee County at Haile Middle.
Obviously, many of our conversations are about kids and teaching. I was a
single parent of three for many years, and a stepmother, too, so I can
relate to many of your parenting challenges. My daughter Tara is a flight
attendant for United, my son Cody works at the Ritz and has made me the
proud grandmother of nearly six year old Lucian, my joy. His twin brother
lives in Orlando and is working towards a teaching degree. My precious
step-daughter Lydia was killed by a drunk driver three years ago in October
at age 19. In my spare time I love to read, practice yoga, play around with
gardening, and paddle my kayak around Midnight Pass. I will always endeavor
to do my best for your child, professionally and personally. Please let me
know of your concerns, and let me know what you like that I'm doing. This
is going to be the best year yet! LUCKY LEVIATHANS ARE AWESOME!
Blessings,
Laurie Akin :)
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