Q: What is the best way to get in touch with my teacher?
A: I check my email once in the morning, once at lunch, and at least once in the afternoon to ensure I get any important messages from you about your child. You can also message me on ClassDojo.
Q: What do I do if my child's mode of transportation is changing for the day?
A: I need written communication from you via email or handwritten note to change your child's transportation.
Q: When do you send home graded work?
A: Graded work for the week is sent home on Mondays. If your child scores less than a 70 on any graded work a parent signature is required. I will stamp this work so you know what needs to be signed. We also do classwork, quizzes, and writing compositions through your child's google classroom. Be sure to check in on their Chromebooks weekly to see their grades on google forms and slides. I also recommend checking in on powerschool to see your child's grades.
Q: What is your classroom management system?
A: We use Class Dojo in our classroom to keep track of classroom participation, responsibility, and citizenship. Points are earned by being a "Super Improver". Students will earn points by beating themselves. This will help the students learn how to work on bettering themselves instead of worrying about their peers. I keep track of citizenship grades by Class Dojo as well. Students are expected to come to school prepared, use respect, and complete classwork. You can see your child's points through the Class Dojo app.
Q: Do you offer extra credit if my child is struggling in a specific area?
A: No extra credit is offered in my class. I believe in having an open line of communication with my families. If you have a concern about your child's grade, get in touch with me and we will discuss ways to help your child succeed. This could include me sending home extra work to practice skills with your child, a meeting to discuss concerns, and increased small group time or recommendation for school-based interventions.
Q: What happens if my child loses a dojo point?
A: 5 points are taken off your child's weekly citizenship grade for every lost dojo point. As far as immediate consequences, it depends on the reason your child lost a point. I try to match a consequence with the behavior. If your child loses a point for using flexible seating in an inappropriate way, they will lose flexible seating for the day. They will write a letter to a friend if they do not use friendship or respect. Silent lunch will be the consequence for repeated talking during independent work or whole-group lessons. Losing recess time or walking laps is an absolute last resort, and you will be made aware if your child loses recess for any reason. I believe children need recess to engage their sensory systems and release energy from a busy day of learning.
