September 2, 2008
Dear Parents,
Can you believe that the summer is over, and it's already time for school? I
hope everyone had a relaxing summer and is ready to get back into a daily
routine. I have really enjoyed my summer, but I am ready to come back to all
the smiling faces. We are in store for a fantastic year. I am so excited to
be a part of your child's life.
A new school year is an exciting time for children. It means making friends,
taking part in activities, and learning new skills. But, the beginning of
school can also be an unsettling time. Children wonder whether they'll like
their teacher and be accepted by their classmates. It's a time for
establishing a new place in the world-always a bit frightening.
Together, you and I can help ease your child's transition from carefree summer
days to active school days and help your child become a happy, well adjusted
learner. As a parent, you know the most about your child's likes, dislikes,
and unique learning style. Please help me to create a successful learning
environment by sharing this information. Please refer to the questionnaire
sheet that is in your "Keep at Home" folder and send this back to school. I
want to keep lines of communication open. We can also share information in
other ways-through telephone conversations, notes, e-mails and conferences.
Home is where learning starts. As a role model, you are a very important part
of your child's education. If your child sees your enthusiasm for learning,
he/she will also be enthusiastic. The best gift you can give to your child is
the gift of your time. We know that, busy as you are, it will not be easy;
but we know also what a wonderful gift it can be. Take time to listen. Take
time to share activities. Take time to shower your love, praise, and support.
Encourage your child to talk about school experiences. Many kids will tell
you what they're thinking and feeling. Listen carefully, not only to the
words but to the gestures, the emphasis and the emotions. For a child, small
problems can be overwhelming. Help your child understand that most problems,
big and small, have solutions. Working together, you and your child can find
the best solutions. Then, school can become an even more productive place.
Please remember to send only nutritious snacks to school. Too many sweets can
drag the body down. Also, studies show that children should get at least 10
hours of sleep each night for them to function properly. We don't want
anything interfering with those brain cells!
If you make alternate plans after school, please remember to send a written
note for the office stating your plan. If your child is being picked up
before the end of the day, they will be called to the office and be dismissed
from there. If your child has Brownies, choir practice, etc. she/he must have
a note each time or one note stating what days he/she will be going. Please
do not write these notes in your child's assignment book because I need to
send these notes to the office.
Students may celebrate their birthdays by bringing in treats for the class.
If your child has a summer birthday, we will celebrate it on her/his half
birthday. We have 20 students, one teacher and one aide.
My class will not be having a set "Show and Tell" time this year. However, if
they have something special to show or tell from a special event, they may
share it during snack (if we have time). We will be having "Star of the Week",
and they will get to share a suitcase of their special things at that time.
Sometimes during morning meetings the students will be able to have a 2 minute
share about themselves or their family.
I look forward to working with you and your child this year. I will work hard
to make this year an exciting and memorable one for your child.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Rosen
