Classroom News

EM4 (Everyday Mathematics)

            The students will be learning use the EM4 curriculum in third grade this year.  We will also be utilizing  Spring Math, Study Island, Link, Get More Math and other websites that enchance their mathematical knowledge.   EM4 is the newest version of Everyday Mathematics and it is aligned to the Common Core Standards.  The Student Reference Book (SRB) may be taken home for you to use at any time.  We will also be utilizing technology in our classroom to further build our technology skills.  If you have any questions, please email me or send a note.   Students/Parents may log into Everyday Math’s online site at http://connected.mcgraw-hill.com/school/p5b9 , study island at https://app.studyisland.com/cfw/login/, Link at https://ascendmath.com/fcm/html5/  and Get More Math  https://gmm.getmoremath.com/student.html to access the current material being taught. Each student has a personal username and password for each site or can log in using google.

SCIENCE

            We use a very hands on curriculum.  We use the Foss program.  The students get to challenge themselves through hands on experiments.        

GRADING SCALE       HANDWRITING SCALE

A = 93% - 100%                         A = Advanced    

B = 85 % - 92%                          P = Proficient

C = 75% - 84%                           B = Basic

D = 70% - 74%                           BB = Below Basic

F = 69% -0%

GENERAL INFORMATION

          We will have a snack each day.  Please send snacks in with your student.  Snacks will not be provided.  I will try to have snack for those students who may have forgot.  You may send in treats for the class on your child's birthday if you would like.   We encourage you to send healthy snacks for classroom parties throughout the school year.  This is in accordance with the school district’s Wellness Program.  Please remind your child to use appropriate behavior on the school bus and in school.  Also, any Kleenex donations throughout the school year will be greatly appreciated.  

HOMEWORK

                The students will be asked to practice multiplication and/or division facts at home nightly.  There will also be different worksheets to practice skills being taught.

During recess time a student may also go to any of their other teachers to ask questions about assignments.  PARENTS---I need your HELP!! Please encourage your child to re-read their lesson and go over their notes daily.  This practice will help them to retain the information they learn in class.

PARENTSQUARE

        Mrs. Price and I will use ParentSquare to provide you with assignment information and any important information that you may need to know.             

CLASSROOM RULES

            Students will be expected to follow our classroom rules at all times!

1.      Please be on time!

2. Be prepared! (with needed materials and assignments) (Be sure to study)

3.      Be honest and truthful!

4.      Show respect for other students, school property, adults, and yourself!

5.      Always do your best!

HOLIDAY PARTIES

           We will have classroom parties for Halloween, Christmas and Valentine’s Day.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

            Time slots are now available for parent/teacher conference day which is November  25th from 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. (evening).

CONTACT INFORMATION

            If you have questions or concerns, I encourage you to contact me at (814)467-5596 (extension - 133) or e-mail me at any time during the school year at dkirkwood@windberschools.org.  I hope to have a terrific year.  I will truly do my best to make your child’s third grade year at Windber Area Elementary School enjoyable, successful, and memorable!!