September 29, 2024

Dear Families,

I hope this message finds you well, especially following Hurricane Helene. Our thoughts are with those who may have been affected, and we sincerely hope everyone in our school community stayed safe and dry during the storm.

As we settle back in following the three-day weekend, I wanted to share with you some thoughts about attendance and continue to share the culture we are working to create regarding instruction. 

The Importance of Attendance and Punctuality

Regular attendance and punctuality are crucial for your child's academic success. Our school focuses on bell-to-bell instruction, meaning that learning begins the moment class starts and continues until dismissal. When students are absent or tardy, they miss valuable instructional time, which can quickly lead to falling behind. We understand that occasional absences are unavoidable, but we encourage you to make every effort to ensure your child attends school consistently and arrives on time.

The Warm Demander Approach

I'd like to share a concept that guides our teachers' approach: the "warm demander." This teaching style combines high expectations with genuine care and support for students. Here's how it works:

1. High Expectations: Our teachers set challenging academic and behavioral standards for all students. They believe in each child's potential to meet these expectations.

2. Caring Relationships: Simultaneously, teachers build warm, supportive relationships with students. They show genuine interest in students' lives and well-being.

3. Accountability with Support: Teachers hold students accountable for meeting expectations but provide the necessary support and scaffolding to help them succeed.

4. Growth Mindset: We encourage students to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles.

5. Clear Communication: Teachers clearly explain their expectations and the reasons behind them, helping students understand the importance of their efforts.

This approach allows our teachers to push students to achieve their best while maintaining a nurturing, respectful environment. It's a delicate balance of firmness and warmth that fosters academic excellence and personal growth.

By partnering with us to emphasize the importance of attendance and understanding our teaching philosophy, you can help your child make the most of their educational experience at our school.

Thank you for your continued support and cooperation. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Sincerely,

Mr. Robinson