Dear Parents:
I have a few pointers that I would like to mention here:
First, I realize that, for many of you, this is your first experience with a
twenty-first century junior high. If there are any problems or concerns
that you have during the year, please do not hesitate to email(preferred)
or call.
I cannot stress enough the importance of keeping up with classwork and
homework, the most important of which is STUDYING. Too many students do not
EVEN consider studying as homework, but I tell them that it is the MOST
IMPORTANT kind. Many do not understand HOW to study nor realize that reading
over notes each night IS studying and easier than waiting for the night
BEFORE a test. Sometimes, reading over a chapter again is also a good way to
prepare. If your child always comes home saying he/ she has NO homework in
ANY subject, you can assume that this cannot be correct. As a conscientious
parent, it would be prudent to have your child read over notes or study the
information obtained from that day.
Lastly, one of the biggest problems with seventh graders seems to be turning
work in ON TIME. This is one of the reasons I require a project every nine
weeks! Many students say to me, "I didn't have time." or "I had karate
practice." We must instill in them that their FIRST JOB is school!
Consider, also, that for the first time most of them have SEVEN different
classes with SEVEN different teachers who have SEVEN different styles and
MANY different requirements in their classes. This could, undoubtedly, add up
to quite a lot of work. The best way for students to remember assignments and
to stay organized is by using the planner. If your child is having trouble
keeping up, I will gladly initial his/ her planner after the assignment is
written down from the board. Please let me know if this will assist you in
the MOST IMPORTANT JOB that you will ever have - your child.
Sincerest regards,
Ms. Whitman
