Fifth grade is a special year for our students. This is the year they have been anticipating so that they can take on leadership roles here at Addison. They are now eligible to be part of the Safety Patrol, present the Swamp News each day, and go on the overnight trip to Rock Eagle. It is also the year that their teachers and I prepare them academically, socially, and emotionally for middle school. During fifth grade guidance they will explore future careers, look at their learning styles, the subject of popularity, learn how to set realistic goals for life, discuss bullying issues, and safety issues with computers. Human Growth and Development classes taught by a registered nurse will be offered to your student in January (Parent permission is required). During April and May my guidance lessons will center around transitioning to middle school. Worries, concerns, questions, learning middle school terminology, along with learning how to open a combination lock will be addressed at that time. Fifth grade essential questions are:

• What does it take to be a successful student?
• What is a realistic academic goal?
• What are my personal skills, interest, and abilities?
• How do people prepare for future careers?
• How does behavior effect relationships with others?
• What are the steps to problem solving?
• What is harassment and bullying?