Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions
of students and parents.
- What does my child need for school?
- How can I contact the teacher?
- What is a typical day like?
- What is Kid-Writing?
- How long should homework take?
- How will I know how my child is doing in school?
What does my child need for school?
Any materials that your child will need for school are provided
by the school district and teacher. The only additional item that
all children should have is a pack of skinny markers to be used
for kid-writing. I will send home a note when these are needed.
At Open House, I will have a giving tree to let you know of other
items that can be donated to the classroom. Tissues are always
needed!
How can I contact the teacher?
There are many ways that I am available to contact. Feel free to
send in a note with your child. I can also be reached via phone
or email (mwert@wilsonareasd.org). Just keep in mind that I
normally can't check either of those until the end of the school
day! If there is something I need to know for that school day,
please send in a note. If you are changing the way your child is
picked up from school, we must have a written note that day.
Please send one with your child or call the office to inform them
of any transportation changes.
What is a typical day like?
The first grade curriculum is packed, so our days are busy! We
typically spend our morning doing our reading and math
instruction. In the afternoon, we focus on phonics skills. We
work in school groups to focus on the specific needs of each
child. We also work on kid-writing and focus each week on a new
theme. Themes are based on science and social studies concepts.
What is Kid-Writing?
Kid-writing is a way of teaching writing where children explore
what authors do in their books, and then use these skills in
their own writing. The teacher conferences with students about
their writing. Children are encouraged to use invented spelling
and stretch out the sounds they hear in words. As we become more
confident writers, we will use picture books to teach other
aspects of writing.
How long should homework take?
Typically, each night of homework should take about 15-20
minutes. You only need to do the items that are circled on the
homework slip. Quickly reviewing the word wall words and spelling
list each night will greatly help! Also, try to incorporate the
homework with your daily family routine. Reading before bed, for
example, is a good way to include the reading aspect of the
homework assignments.
How will I know how my child is doing in school?
Each week, you will receive a progress note for your child. This
will include comments on how your child's behavior was that week,
as well as any academic concerns that I have. Any graded
assignments for the week will also be included. Please use these
to review skills which your child struggled with.