Dear Parents,

Welcome to 8^th Grade Science at Foster Middle School! I am honored to have your child in my science class, and I am excited to work with you and your child throughout the year. I believe that science is an extremely engaging and interesting subject. It increases our awareness and knowledge of the world around us and opens doors to new and exciting discoveries.

This year your son or daughter will be using a variety of textbooks and instructional materials to help them achieve proficiency in science content. They will also have many opportunities to apply what they have learned in lessons through various lab investigations and activities which can be fun and highly engaging.

My goal is to create a classroom learning environment to help your child:

- Develop a strong science vocabulary

- Build a solid foundation of science concepts and understanding

- Make connections among science and other academic areas

- Utilize technology to learn more about science

- Apply mathematics to problem solving

- Develop critical thinking skills and the ability to challenge assumptions, think creatively, and solve real-life problems

- Enjoy learning!

Because you are an integral part of your child’s education, I feel home to school communication is of vital importance. I hope to talk with each of you early this school year and continuing in the future. I would also like to extend an invitation for you to contact me at any time. I can be reached through the main office at school , or by email at rldeagarza@lisd.org. If you would like to talk in person, I am always available to schedule appointments before school, after school, or during my planning period. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns at my remind 101 class at. rmd.at/dlgarza8th .

I know that we will have a successful, exciting, and productive year in science and I look forward to being a part of the academic progress your child will make.

Best Regards,

Ricardo De la Garza

8^th Grade Science Teacher