Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and
parents.
- How are students rewarded for good behavior?
- Will my child lose recess for not doing homework?
- WOW- who knew that Va. Studies had so much content??
- Will my fourth grader take state SOL's?
- What are all those scores at the top of the weekly sheet?
- What happens if my child does not meet their AR/ A.Math goal?
- What is the volunteer process? Should I just show up?
- What is the rule on cell phones/ game boys/ MP3 players?
- What skill is most essential to success in the fourth grade?
How are students rewarded for good behavior?
I really strive to create a "family feel" in our classroom. The
class works to earn marbles, because when they fill their marble
jar, they can vote on a reward. Also-- when the class average is
at least a 90% on tests and quizzes, students get to celebrate by
bringing a snack and a drink to enjoy in class. This helps
students realize their accountability in our classroom! Any
individual behavior issues are handled with a note in their
agendas, or a call home.
Will my child lose recess for not doing homework?
No- but the homework will go home again with your child; this
time it needs to be signed by a parent that it was not completed
on time.
WOW- who knew that Va. Studies had so much content??
I know!!! Isn't it wonderful that we live in such a history rich
state? Virginia history does require nightly review and close
attention to class lessons to master the content. Wait until you
see what's in store with fifth grade history! Make history come
alive with your student by doing some webquests together, taking
some weekend trips to historic places, or watching Discovery Kids
or the History Channel for age appropriate shows!
Will my fourth grader take state SOL's?
Yes- in Virginia history, math and language arts.Science is still
a local Suffolk test.
What are all those scores at the top of the weekly sheet?
Those are your child's scores on their nine week assesments that
we give in math and reading. A passing score is an 80; anything
less will require reteaching and retesting. Students have 2
retests to master a skill. Promotion requirements state that a
student must have at least an 80 % total average from all tests
in each subject area to move to the next grade level.
What happens if my child does not meet their AR/ A.Math goal?
Students have the chance to enter drawings for $5 giftcards when
they meet their goals- why wouldn't they? ;)
What is the volunteer process? Should I just show up?
While I will NEVER look a gift horse in the mouth, it is much
easier for me to have an idea when volunteers are coming in to
the classroom. I keep a binder with tasks that can be
accomplished, and if I know you'd like to volunteer I can find a
task that you feel comfortable with.You also need to have a
volunteer form on file with the office.
What is the rule on cell phones/ game boys/ MP3 players?
It is school policy that if I see it, it has to be confiscated
and retrieved by a parent. Occasionally, we will allow these
items for a reward but only at the student's understanding that
NS and Mrs.Burnor cannot/will not replace a lost or stolen
system.Sorry guys- those are the rules.
What skill is most essential to success in the fourth grade?
ORGANIZATION! Study skills will fall into place as students
realize that they don't want to lose their honor roll status, and
that you really have to study nightly to feel confident. An
unorganized student will have difficulty keeping up with
assignments, and turning in completed work. I will be glad to
help your student get on the organizational path - schedule time
with me if you are feeling overwhelmed.