Week of September 2, 2025

Labor Day, Monday, September 1st - No School

Back to School Night is Tuesday, September 2nd 

4:30-6:00pm

Please come to this important evening to meet the teachers, preview what your child will be learning about in the coming year across the school, and connect with the PTO, PAC and other important Murray organizations.

iReady Testing - students will complete the Beginning of Year assessments in Reading and Math on Wednesday and Thursday.

HOMEWORK - Homework is assigned nightly and recorded in the Homework Planner.  It is due the following day unless otherwise noted.  Late assignments will not be accepted 3 days beyond the due date. Please help your child to create a homework routine that includes taking out their homework planner, checking-off completed assignments, and returning work to the folder, and folder and homework planner back to the book bag.

Aspen/Parent Portal 

 Student work is graded and returned on a regular basis.  There are no surprises regarding grades as we return graded work and update gradebook regularly.  Please log-in to Parent Portal or have your child log-in using his/her CPS username and password to review completed work and help monitor any missing assignments.  

Parent Portal

Student Portal

4th Grade Beginning of Year Papers

4th Grade Welcome Letter

4th Grade Fact Sheet

4th Grade School Supply List

June 2025

⭐️⭐️Welcome Incoming 4th Graders!⭐️⭐️

Dear Incoming 4th Graders and Families,

Happy Summer! We are almost there!  On June 4th, we met with your child to introduce ourselves, discuss 4th grade expectations, as well as share the school supply list and summer learning activities.  We gave them paper copies of the materials.  If for some reason they are misplaced, please click below for a digital copy.

Welcome Letter, School Supply List, and Summer Reading

Have a wonderful summer and we look forward to seeing you on Monday, August 18th.

The 4th Grade Team,

Ms. Finke, 203

Ms. Ellis, 204

Week of May 26, 2025

Happy Memorial Day! No school Monday, May 26th.

iReady Reading Test - begins Tuesday, May 27th

The 4th Grade Class Picnic will be on Tuesday, June 10th

Week of April 7, 2025

We are working hard to end the year on a positive note!  As we have shared with the students, we are now approaching some of the most complex lessons of the year.  It's important for students to put focus and effort into all that we do including: participating in class discussions, asking questions, working with partners, working in small groups, and using time wisely.  

Homework is recorded in the homework planner and due the following day unless otherwise noted.

Week of March 17, 2025

IAR Testing

• Tuesday, March 18th

• Wednesday, March 19th

Tuesday, April 1st - Parent Conferences

A link to sign-up for Parent Conferences was emailed.  Please sign-up as soon as possible. The schedule will be finalized on Thursday, March 20th. 

Week of March 10, 2025

Thank you to all of the chaperones who joined us on our field trip to the Chicago History Museum.  We are grateful for your time and engagement with the students as we visited this city gem.

IAR Testing testing continues.

• Tuesday, March 11th

• Wednesday, March 12th

• Thursday, March 13th

• Tuesday, March 18th

• Wednesday, March 19th

Week of March 3, 2025

Field Trip! Students will be visiting the Chicago History Museum on Friday, March 7th.  Students will visit various exhibits in the museum to discover why Chicago is known as the Crossroads of America.  Students will complete a few activities to help build background knowledge for the upcoming social studies units.

Please send lunch with your child on Friday. Students are not permitted to bring electronics (including phones) on the field trip. There is no need for money as we will not be visiting the cafe or gift shops. No gum, pop, or candy is permitted.

We are out of tissues! 

If everyone brings one box, we will have enough for the remainder of the school year.

Week of February 24, 2025

 🗓️ No School ~ Tuesday, February 20th 

We are out of tissues! 

If everyone brings one box, we will have enough for the remainder of the school year.

❤️ Week of February 10, 2025 ❤️

✅ Social Studies Southeast Landform Projects are due Wednesday, February 12th. See Ms. Finke's page for additional details.

❤️ Valentine's Day Celebration ❤️

There was a typo on the note sent home. The celebration will be on Friday, February 14th

On Friday, February 14th we will have a small Valentine’s Day celebration.  Your child is welcome to bring cards to share with classmates.  If he/she chooses to do this, please make sure there is a Valentine for each member of the class – a class list was sent home.  If your child wishes to share a small treat, please make sure it is individually wrapped and nut free.  We will not be able to pass out any items containing nuts.

Please help your child to open and organize their Valentine’s prior to coming to school.

Thank you!

🚌 Field Trip Slips! 

We are heading to the Chicago History Museum on March 7th.  Trip slips will go home next week and are due Thursday, February 20th.  No late slips will be accepted.

Week of January 27, 2025

Report Cards

2nd Quarter Report Cards were sent home on Friday, January 24th.  Please review report cards and then sign and return the envelope. You are to keep all of the contents.

Field Trip

Friday, January 31st is our field trip to the Museum of Science and Industry!  A few reminders about this day:

• Please help your child to pack a lunch.  

• Students have to carry their coats with them throughout the museum. Please pay attention to the weather to see if your child might be able to get by with a lighter coat. Please help your child to strategize how they will manage their coat and accessories as they explore the museum.

• Please do not send money - we will not be visiting the gift shop nor cafes. 

• Please review museum etiquette, remind your child that s/he is to stay with chaperones at all times, and follow directions from chaperones and museum staff.

Week of January 6, 2025

Happy New Year! We hope you and your family had a wonderful and relaxing Winter Break!

Field Trip to MSI

Friday, January 31, 2025

Field trip slips are going home on Monday January 6th and are due Wednesday, January 15th. No late slips will be accepted  as we have to pay the museum in advance. We will need 4 chaperones per class.  Only parents on the  ✅ CPS Volunteer Process are able to go on the trip.

School Supplies - Pencil Cases

Please help your child to replenish his/her pencil case: students need 3 sharpened pencils, pencil sharpener, scissors, red pen, blue pen, and dry erase marker daily.  It not only impacts your child, but others when supplies are missing.

Week of December 2, 2024

Winter Showcase Assembly

Friday, December 13th

9:30-10:30 Kindergarten - 4th Grade

10:45-11:45  5th - 8th

Be on the lookout for an email from Ms. Perry, our music teacher, with details about suggested clothing for the 4th grade performance.

Holiday Party 

Thursday, December 19th

12pm

We will be collecting $10 to purchase pizza, drinks, snacks, and sweets. Be on the lookout for a letter the first week of December.

Field Trip to MSI

Friday, January, 31 2025

Mark your calendar for our field trip is scheduled for to MSI.  We will be sending home slips on January 6th.  Slips must be submitted by Wednesday, January 15th  as we have to pay the museum in advance. We will need 4 chaperones per class. You must complete ✅ CPS Volunteer Process to join us on field trips.

Week of November 11, 2024

Northeast Travel Brochures are due Thursday, November 14th! 

We have field trips planned in the new year.  Please complete the ✅ CPS Volunteer Process to join the chaperone list.

🇺🇸Veterans Day - Pausing to remember and thank all the troops who have served our country.

The 2nd Quarter is underway!  Student work is graded and returned on a regular basis.  There are no surprises regarding grades as we return graded work and update gradebook regularly.  Please log-in to Parent Portal or have your child log-in using his/her CPS username and password to review completed work and help monitor any missing assignments.   Reminder, late homework is not accepted after three days.

Parent Portal

Student Portal

Week of October 28, 2024

New Quarter, Fresh Start! 

🎃Halloween - The 4th Graders will have a small Halloween celebration on Thursday, October 31st.  

Please remember, students do not dress up at Murray.   However, we will have a treat exchange that afternoon.  Students may bring in a small treat to exchange with their homeroom class.

Treat Ideas

·  1 fun size candy treat

·  Pencils

·  Erasers

·  Stickers

We are a peanut free classroom so please check labels before sending in the treats.

 Week of October 14, 2024

✅ No School Monday - Indigenous People's Day

📸 Picture Day is scheduled for Monday, October 21st.

Aspen Portal 

The 1st Quarter is coming to an end on October 25.  Student work is graded and returned on a regular basis.  There are no surprises regarding grades as we return graded work and update gradebook regularly.  Please log-in to Parent Portal or have your child log-in using his/her CPS username and password to review completed work and help monitor any missing assignments.   Reminder, late homework is not accepted after three days.

Parent Portal

Student Portal

Week of September 30, 2024

✅ Reminder: Friday, September 27 is a Professional Development Day for teachers. There is no school for students.

📈 Progress Reports were sent home on Thursday, September 26.

 📚 Scholastic Book Fair (September 30th - October 3rd)
The Scholastic Book Fair is coming to Murray! This is a fantastic opportunity for students to explore new books and nurture their love of reading.

Browse the catalog at s-bf.com/es1 and set up an e-Wallet for a cash-free purchasing experience. You can also donate books to your child’s classroom or the school library through the e-Wallet.

 📸 Picture Day is scheduled for Monday, October 21st.

Week of September 16, 2024

We are getting into the swing of things!  We appreciate all of your efforts to support your child's learning in and out of the classroom. A reminder that school begins at 8:45 am and it's so important for all children to be in the building with their materials on time to help make for a successful day. 

Aspen/Parent Portal 

 Student work is graded and returned on a regular basis.  There are no surprises regarding grades as we return graded work and update gradebook regularly.  Please log-in to Parent Portal or have your child log-in using his/her CPS username and password to review completed work and help monitor any missing assignments.  

Parent Portal

Student Portal

Week of September 2, 2024

Thank you for all of the support you have provided your child to prepare for the new school year.   We are very grateful for all you and are looking forward to a successful Week 2!

Important Information

Forms - There was a delay in some forms being sent home. A packet went home on Thursday and includes priority forms. Please complete and return by Tuesday, September 3. Thank you!

Back to School Night is Thursday, September 5th 

Open House Logistics - Thursday, September 5th

Open House is a wonderful opportunity to share your curriculum, syllabus, classroom expectations, grading scale, and more with families. It's also a great chance to share a bit about yourself, as building strong relationships is key to our success. Here are the logistics for the evening:

• 4:15 PM: Welcome families into the multipurpose room

• 4:30 PM - 4:40 PM: Baker will present data to all families in the multipurpose room

• 4:40 PM - 5:15 PM: World Language/Essential team members will speak to families in the multi-purpose room.

• 5:15 PM - 6:00 PM: Parents will go to their classrooms to meet with teachers and hear presentations

Please visit Ms. Finke's and Ms. Ellis' tabs on this site for information about this week's learning. 

Welcome Incoming 4th Graders!

June 2024

Dear Incoming 4th Graders and Families,

Happy Summer! We are almost there!  On May 30th, we met with your children to introduce ourselves, share 4th grade expectations, as well as share the school supply list and summer learning packets.  We gave them paper copies of those materials.  If for some reason they are misplaced, please click below for the 4th Grade Welcome Letter and summer learning activities for Reading and Math. All work is due the first day of school. 

• Welcome Letter, School Supply List, and Summer Reading

• Summer Math

Have a wonderful summer and we will see you on Monday, August 26th.

The 4th Grade Team,

Ms. Finke, 203

Ms. Ellis, 204

Week of May 20th

iReady Reading Test - Begins Monday, May 20th

4th Grade Class Picnic is scheduled for Tuesday, June 4.  Details will be coming home soon.

End of Year -As we wrap up the school year, please keep us informed of planned absences or if your child will be departing before the last day of school. 

Week of May 6th

🤧 We are out of tissues and would appreciate donations to help us get to the end of the year.

Homework continues to be given each night. Please help your child to find a quiet spot to complete their work and review routines for packing up bookbags to ensure everything comes back to school.

Studying - students are given notice of upcoming tests and study guides to help them prepare for tests and quizzes.  It's important for students to take take to work on developing study skills as it will help them in the years to come.

Week of April 15th

🤧 We are out of tissues and would appreciate donations to help us get to the end of the year.

Spring Picture Day is on Monday, April 15th.  For this round of school photos, only students who have paid online or bring in money/order form on Monday will take pictures. 

We are working hard to end the year on a positive note!  As we have shared with the students, we are now approaching some of the most complex lessons of the year.  It's important for students to put focus and effort into all that we do including: participating in class discussions, asking questions, working with partners, working in small groups, and using time wisely.  

Homework is recorded in the homework planner and due the following day unless otherwise noted.

The Solar Eclipse!

Week of April 1st 

Spring Break! Enjoy the break from school to rest and rejuvenate.  When we return, we will take on Illinois State Testing and the 4th Quarter.  Students return to school on Tuesday, April 2nd.

IAR Testing Schedule

• Wednesday, April 3rd

• Thursday, April 4th

• Tuesday, April 9th

• Thursday, April 11th

• Friday, April 12th

Parent Conferences

A link to sign-up for Parent Conferences was emailed on Wednesday, March 20th.  Please sign-up as the schedule will be finalized on April 1st. I will email to confirm your time.

Midwest Timeline Projects are due Tuesday, April 9th.  Materials and directions were reviewed in class andsent home with your child.  There are also directions below.  There are no extra materials to send home, so if they were lost, students will have to create their own.

☘️ Week of March 11th

Wear Green on Friday!

There has been an increase of students using body sprays and perfumes at school.  Please remind your child that sprays and perfumes are not to be used before or during school as the scents can be overwhelming and trigger asthma symptoms.  As children grow, they undergo various physical changes, and it becomes increasingly important to instill good personal hygiene habits.  Habits like using deodorant will help your child to feel good about him/herself and not feel the need for the sprays.

Week of February 26th

Murray Black History Fair - 

Thursday, February 29th from 5-8pm.  A flyer went home with details on how to preorder a meal.  Last day to order is February 24th.  The 4th Graders' projects on the trailblazer artist Jacob Lawrence will be on display in the hallway. Students have recreated "The Great Migration" series to show how Lawrence documented the African American experience.  Come to see the projects and enjoy time with our school community.

Field Trip! Students will be visiting the Chicago History Museum on Friday, March 1st.  Students will visit various exhibits in the museum to discover why Chicago is known as the Crossroads of America.  Students will complete a few activities to help build background knowledge for the upcoming social studies units.

Please send lunch with your child on Friday. Students are not permitted to bring electronics (including phones) on the field trip. There is no need for money as we will not be visiting the cafe or gift shops. No gum, pop, or candy is permitted.

We are out of tissues! 

If everyone brings one box, we will have enough for the remainder of the school year.

 ❤️Week of February 12th

🚌 Field Trip Slips! 

We are heading to the Chicago History Museum on March 1st.  Field Trip They are due Friday, February 16th.  No late slips will be accepted.

Progress Reports

Went home on Thursday, February 8th. Please review, sign, and return to school.  

Essentials Schedule Change beginning 2-12

Room 203 M-PE, T-World Language, W-Music, TH-World Language, F-PE

Room 204 M-Music, T-World Language, W-PE, TH-World Language, F-Music

❤️ Valentine's Day

Please ask your child for the note that was sent home detailing the small Valentine's celebration on Tuesday.  Students can see the names of classmates in Google Classroom by clicking on the "People" tab.

 🗓️ Monday, February 19th is President's Day, No School

📚 Week of January 29th

The children's librarian from the Blackstone Library reached out to share information about an upcoming program.  The flyer was sent home this week and is attached below.  

🧤Week of January 22nd

🚌 Thank you to all the chaperones who joined us on the field trip to the Museum of Science and Industry this past Friday. We greatly appreciate the time you shared with our students to make the day a success. We have another field trip planned for early March. If you are interested in chaperoning, please complete the CPS volunteer background check so that you can join us. ✅ CPS Volunteer Process Please follow this link to complete all steps of the process.

📓 Due to last week's weather, Middle of Year Testing will continue this week. Students will complete the STAR 360 tests on Tuesday of this week and will begin iReady Reading on Wednesday. Please encourage your child to try his or her best.

⏰ On Time Arrival - we understand winter weather conditions impact drive times. We ask that families keep this in mind and leave a little earlier to ensure on time arrival to school.

🎉Week of January 8th

Happy New Year!  We hope you had a wonderful Winter Break and are rested for the start of the new year and 3rd Quarter.  Upcoming Dates and Reminders:

• Friday, January 12th - 2nd Quarter Report Cards will be sent home.  Please review report cards and then sign and return the envelope. You are to keep all of the contents.

• Friday, January 19th -Field Trip to the Museum of Science and Industry.

  • Students need to pack a lunch (no pop or candy)

  • Please do not send money with your child as students are not permitted to go to the shops or to purchase food.

  • Outerwear/Jackets - there is no place to store coats at the museum so we encourage students to wear lighter jackets/vests to the museum as they will have to wear or carry them throughout the visit.  We are going from the school to the bus and bus to the museum, so outside time will be limited.

❄️Week of December 11th ❄️

2nd Quarter end December 21st

We are nearing the end of the 2nd Quarter and though there are many fun things planned these next two weeks, we will also continue learning, classwork, tests, and homework.  It's imperative for each child continue to work hard, maintain focus, and treat others with respect in the classroom, at recess, and in the lunchroom.

Murray Winter Assembly

Friday, December 15th

K-4 Assembly 9:30 am

4th Graders will be singing "Let it Snow". Please help your child to dress in white tops, dark pants, winter hat, and scarf. 

Holiday Party 

Wednesday, December 20th at 12pm

We will be collecting $10 to purchase pizza, drinks, snacks, and sweets. 

Last day to submit fees for party is Thursday, December 14th.

Week of November 27th

We hope everyone had a restful break. We have 4 important weeks of learning and some fun planned.  It is important for every child to get enough sleep, come in with a good attitude, put forth effort, and work to get along with others.  This will make the next 4 weeks awesome!

Progress Reports were sent home on Friday, November 17th.  Please review, sign, and return with your child.

Field Trip  - field trip slips are going home Monday, November 28th. Please sign and return with fees as soon as possible.  No fees/slips will be accepted after December 7th.  The trip is January 19th, but we must pay the museum in advance.

We are able to take 5 chaperones per class on this trip. Chaperones MUST be on the CPS approved Volunteer List.  Remember, applications need to be updated each year. 

✅ CPS Volunteer Process Please follow this link to complete all steps of the process.

🎃Week of October 30th

Thank you for joining us for Parent Conferences this past week!  Please sign and return the envelopes by Monday, October 30th. You are to keep all the contents.

🎃Halloween - The 4th Graders will have a small Halloween celebration on Tuesday, October 31st.  Please see below for details.

🍁Week of October 16th

📸 Picture Day is scheduled for Monday, October 16th.

Friday, October 20th is the last day of the first quarter. 

Parent Conferences are scheduled for Thursday, October 26th.  Please be on the lookout for an email from your child's homeroom teacher to sign-up. 

🍁Week of October 2nd 

It's hard to believe it's already the month of October!  

Tuesday, October 3rd @ 5:30 - Data Night

Virtual Event Link

This  virtual event led by Mr. Baker and Ms. Berry will help you interpret your child's  iReady (Reading) and Star 360 (Reading and Math) results from the beginning of year test.  They will explain how the data is used in school and how you can help support your child at home.  Please plan to attend!

We sent home your child's data with their progress reports.

Murray Book Fair is the week of October 2nd.

Save the date! Parent Teacher Conferences are scheduled for Thursday, October 26th. Sign-up information will be coming out soon.

Week of September 18th

📈We are starting the 5th week of school and Progress Reports will be sent home on Thursday, September 21.

Star 360 and iReady Reading reports will be attached to Progress Reports.

✅ Reminder: Friday, September 22 is a Professional Development Day for teachers. There is no school for students.

Week of September 4th

Monday is Labor Day - No School

Thank you to all the parents who joined us for Curriculum Night! We appreciate you taking the time from your busy schedule to learn more about the 4th Grade.  For those families who were unable to join us, please follow the link to the important handout. 

HOMEWORK - Homework is assigned nightly and recorded in the Homework Planner.  It is due the following day unless otherwise noted.  Late assignments will not be accepted 3 days beyond the due date. Please help your child to create a homework routine that includes taking out their homework planner, checking-off completed assignments, and returning work to the folder, and folder and homework planner back to the book bag.

Please turn in the important CPS and Murray forms that were sent home on the first day of school. We are missing many, many of these important forms.  Please submit by Wednesday, September 15th. Thank you!

Welcome 4th Grade Families!

4th Grade Supply List

Welcome Incoming 4th Graders!

June 2023

Dear Incoming 4th Graders and Families,

Happy Summer! We are almost there!  On June 1st, we met with your children to introduce 4th Grade Expectations as well as share the school supply list and summer learning packets.  We gave them paper copies of those materials.  If for some reason they are misplaced, please click below for the 4th Grade Welcome Letter and summer learning activities for Reading and Math. All work is due the first day of school. 

• Welcome Letter, School Supply List, and Summer Reading

• Summer Math

Have a wonderful summer and we will see you on Monday, August 21st!

The 4th Grade Team,

Ms. Finke, 203

Ms. Ellis, 204

🌷May 15th

Happy Mother's Day to all our mothers, grandmothers, and mother-like figures! We are grateful for all the love and encouragement you provide your 4th grader. We hope your children give you a small break on this special day!

We will be working hard right up to the end of the school year. Please continue to push your child to make good choices and work hard each day.

April 17th

We are working hard to end the year on a positive note!  As we have shared with the students, we are now approaching some of the most complex lessons of the year.  It's important for students to put focus and effort into all that we do including: participating in class discussions, asking questions, working with partners, working in small groups, and using time wisely.  

Homework is recorded in the homework planner and due the following day unless otherwise noted.

Week of March 27th 

IAR Testing Schedule

This past week the 4th Graders put a great deal of effort into arriving to school on time ready to go. We saw great focus and effort throughout testing. We know they are encountering some challenging texts, questions, and math problems but are proud of the the effort they have put forth. Keep it up for these last two tests!

Room 203 Testing Schedule

Monday, March 27 ELA III

Tuesday, March 28 Math III

Room 204 Testing Schedule

Monday, March 27 Math III

Tuesday, March 28 ELA III

Parent Conferences  on Wednesday, March 29th 

Thank you for signing up for your parent conference scheduled for this Wednesday. We have sent out emails confirming your appointment time.  It's a VERY tight schedule so please be on time so that we can maximize our time together.  

☀️☀️☀️Spring Break! ☀️☀️☀️

Week of April 3rd is Spring Break! We hope you and your children are able to rest and relax in order to renew energy as we work our way through the 4th Quarter!

☘️☘️ Week of March 13th ☘️☘️

Murray Literacy Week is March 13th-16th!  Please see the flyer below for details.

The 3rd Quarter ends on March 16th.  

No School for students on Friday, March 17th 

Picture Day - Monday, March 20th

Illinois Assessment of Readiness is scheduled for March 21st-28th. Please be on the lookout for the complete testing schedule.  It's very important for children to arrive to school on time and avoid early dismissals during the testing window.  If students arrive late, they will no be permitted to go to their rooms and will have to make-up the test at a later time.

Wednesday, March 28th - Parent Conferences

Week of February 27th

Students will be visiting the Chicago History Museum on Wednesday, March 1st.  Students will visit various exhibits in the museum to discover why Chicago is known as the Crossroads of America.  Students will complete a few activities to help build background knowledge for upcoming social studies units.

Please send lunch with your child on Wednesday. Students are not permitted to bring electronics (including phones) on the field trip. There is no need for money as we will not be visiting the cafe or gift shops. 

Uniting Voices Chicago - the choir is going on a field trip to Symphony Hall on Tuesday, October 28th.  Please contact Ms. Perry if you have questions.

Week of February 13th

Essentials Schedule Change beginning 2-13

Room 203 M-PE, T-World Language, W-Art, TH-World Language, F-PE

Room 204 M-Art, T-World Language, W-PE, TH-World Language, F-Art

🚌 LAST CALL for Field Trip Slips! 

They are due Wednesday, February 15th.  No late slips will be accepted. 

✏️ Supplies

We are noticing students are running out of pencils and other school supplies. Please check-in with your child to help them replace and items that have been used up or lost.

 ❤️ Valentine's Day

Please ask your child for the note that was sent home detailing the small Valentine's celebration on Tuesday.

Week of January 30th

Field Trip slips for a visit to the Chicago History Museum will go home this week. All chaperones must be on the CPS Volunteer List.  For questions about the volunteer opportunities and your application, please email volunteer@cps.edu or call 773-553-1544.  Chicago Public Schools Volunteer Process

No School Friday, February 3rd

Week of January 15th 

Friday is our field trip to the Museum of Science and Industry!  A few reminders about this day:

• Please pack a lunch.  

• Students have to carry their coats with them throughout the museum. We encourage students to wear lighter jackets or heavy sweatshirts on the field trip as we will have limited time outside and this will help to avoid misplacing outerwear. 

• Please do not send money - we will not be visiting the gift shop nor cafes. 

• Please review museum etiquette, remind your child that s/he is to stay with chaperones at all times, and follow directions from chaperones and museum staff.

Week of December 19th

Just a few more days before Winter Break!  Let's make these last days count with hard work and focus!

• Holiday Luncheon is on Wednesday, December 21st. 

• The 2nd Quarter ends on Thursday, December 22nd.

• If your child plans to be absent this week, please let us know so we can plan accordingly.

Week of December 5th

Update:  We did not receive Progress Reports on Friday. We will send home once they are printed by administration.

-----------

Field Trip Slips and Holiday Luncheon sign-up were sent home on Thursday, December 1st.  Slips and fees are due by December 15th. We are unable to accept any late fees or slips.

We need chaperones for the field trip. Please complete the CPS Volunteer application and follow up with Ms. Alcantar if you run into problems. 

Progress Reports go home Friday, December 2nd

Week of November 28th

Week of November 14th

🦃 Thanksgiving Holiday

Reminder: The week of November 21st is a non attendance week for students.  Parent Conferences are scheduled for November 21st and the remainder of the week there is no school for students or staff.  

‼️Parent Volunteers‼️

As of today, we only have two fourth grade parents on the approved chaperone/volunteer list.  We are unable to complete the application for an upcoming field trip because we do not have enough parents on the approved chaperone list.

We need all parents to complete the CPS Volunteer Process.  Please follow this link to complete all steps of the process ASAP so we can plan our trips.

🎃 Week of October 31st

Thank you for signing and returning Report Card Envelopes as well as signing up for Parent Conferences.  If you haven't done so, please do so by Monday, October 31st.

Week of October 17th

• Thursday, October 20th is the last day of the quarter
• Friday, October 21st - Non attendance day students

Week of October 3rd

Book Fair

October 3-7th 

Aspen/Parent Portal 

Student work is graded and returned regularly as well as grades are updated in Aspen.  The first quarter ends October 20th which is just around the corner.  

Parent Portal  Student Portal (CPS username and password)

As we plan the school year and prepare for field trips, we need all parents to complete the CPS Volunteer Process.  Please follow this link to complete all steps of the process by end of September so we can plan our trips

Monday, October 10th 

Indigenous Peoples' Day, No School

Week of September 19th

📈We are starting the 5th week of school and Progress Reports will be sent home on Thursday, September 22.

✅ Reminder: Friday, September 23 is a Professional Development Day for teachers. There is no school for students.

📸 Picture Day is Monday, September 26th.  Click on the link for more information.

Week of September 5th

Monday is Labor Day - No School

Thank you to all the parents who joined us for Curriculum Night! We appreciate you taking the time from your busy schedule to learn more about the 4th Grade. The handout and video are attached below if we missed you.

HOMEWORK - Homework is assigned nightly and recorded in the Homework Planner.  It is due the following day unless otherwise noted.  Late assignments will not be accepted 3 days beyond the due date. Please help your child to create a homework routine that includes taking out their homework planner, checking-off completed assignments, and returning work to the folder, and folder and homework planner back to the book bag.

Please turn in the important CPS and Murray forms that were sent home on the first day of school. We are missing many, many of these important forms.  Please submit by Wednesday, September 15th. Thank you!

Week of August 29

We made it through the first week of school!  Hip Hip Hooray! Thank you for all of the support you have provided your child to prepare for the new school year.   We are very grateful for all you and are looking forward to a successful Week 2!

Important Information

Curriculum Night is Tuesday, August 30th @ 5pm

⭐️ ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️

Creating a Classroom Mission Statement

This week we will work to develop our  class mission statements in homerooms.  This co-created statement will guide and drive our classroom culture and articulate the values, goals, and norms we hold closely.  This important statement helps hold us all accountable for our common goals.

Please return forms to school as soon as possible. Thank you!

Beginning of Year Information

Welcome Letter

4th Grade Fact Sheet

School Supply List

Welcome Incoming 4th Graders!

June 2022

Dear Incoming 4th Graders and Families,

Happy Summer! We are almost there!  On June 8th, we met with your children to introduce 4th Grade Expectations as well as share the school supply list and summer learning packets.  We gave them paper copies of those materials.  If for some reason they are misplaced, please click below for the 4th Grade Welcome Letter and summer learning activities for Reading and Math. All work is due the first day of school. In addition, we have posted the materials from our parent meeting.

• Welcome Letter, School Supply List, and Summer Reading

• Summer Math

• June 8th Parent Presentation

• Problem Solving Family Resource

Have a wonderful summer and we will see you on August 22nd!

The 4th Grade Team,

Ms. Finke, 203

Ms. Ellis, 204

🇺🇸 Week  of May 30th

We are nearing the end of the school year, but please remember we will be working hard up to the last days.  Homework is still assigned and to be completed, classwork and tests will be given, and the expectations to work together and be respectful are still in place.  We want to end the year on a positive note.

Important Upcoming Dates

Thursday, June 9th  at 10:15 am

 4th Grade Choir Performance in the Gymnasium

• Students wear choir uniform: red choir shirt, black pants, black shoes

• Students wear choir uniforms to school on June 9th

• Parents are welcome!  Performance will begin promptly at 10:15 am so please plan to arrive no later than 10:10

Friday, June 10th 

4th Grade Class Picnic

• Pack your favorite lunch!

• Pack your favorite beverage!

• Pack a towel or blanket!

• Bring your favorite ball, jumprope, etc (no electronics or skates)

• Have fun!

Tuesday, June 14th - Last Day of School

Week of May 16th

End of Year Testing Star 360 Test 

• Wednesday, May 18th at 9:00am. 

It's imperative your child get a good night sleep and arrive on time (this is imperative every day!).  When children give this type of assessment their best effort, it helps us to monitor their understanding and see their growth over the course of the year.

Thank you to the PTO for sponsoring a wonderful Pizza Party this past Friday!

Week of May 2nd

We can hardly believe it's the month of May! We are entering the 3rd week of the quarter. Progress Reports will be sent home on Friday, May 13th which is just around the corner. Please continue to monitor your child's progress in Aspen.

Homework is assigned nightly. Children record their homework in their homework planner and it should be pulled out each night to review and make sure all work is finished.  

Star 360 Testing - We will be completing the end of year assessment for Star 360 on Wednesday May, 11th and 18th at 9:00am. It's imperative your child get a good night sleep and arrive on time (this is imperative every day!).  When children give this type of assessment their best effort, it helps us to monitor their understanding and see their growth over the course of the year.

Week of April 18th

New Quarter, New Start! We are in the homestretch! As we begin the 4th Quarter, it's an excellent time to revisit goals and homework routines to ensure a strong finish to the school year.  Also, please check in with your child to see if they need to replenish supplies like: pencils, pens, scissors, etc.

Wednesday, April 20th - No School for Report Card Pick-up Day

Week of March 28th

The Penny Wars end on Friday, April 1st! The 4th Graders and their families have done an awesome donating to our class buckets.  Keep it up and Friday is the day!

PTO Scholastic Book Fair - week of March 28th.  Students will have the opportunity to purchase books from book fair. 

• Room 203 will visit on Tuesday, March 29th 

• Room 204 will visit on Wednesday, March 30th

End of Quarter - Thursday, April 7th is the last day of the 2nd Quarter.  We will begin wrapping up grades in order to prepare report cards. Please remember, we do not accept late work beyond 3 days of the due date and your child's progress can always be viewed on the Parent Portal to Aspen.

☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️ ☔️

Week of March 14th

IAR - Illinois Assessment of Readiness

• Monday, March 14th - ELA I and Math I

• Tuesday, March 15th - ELA II and Math II

• Wednesday, March 16th  - Math III

Attendance and on time arrival is very important on testing days. If your child is late, he or she will not be able to enter the classroom and will have to retake the test at a later time.

CPS Adopts Mask Optional Model

Beginning Monday, March 14th, CPS will transition to the Mask Optional Model.  Please have a conversation with your child to help him/her know what you expect during the school day. With the following exceptions, teachers will no longer enforce mask wearing:

There are several instances where masking will still be required in schools:

1. When performing clinical procedures that require the clinician to be within three feet of a student, both the staff member and student must wear a mask (unless made impossible by the specific procedure). 

• For example, this situation may apply to school nurses, Care Room attendants, and providers of dental exams, eye exams, medical exams, immunizations, and hearing/vision screening. 

• Note: Contracted,  licensed medical providers are governed by their hospital and/or health system’s policies, and as such, providers and patients are required to be masked for healthcare services. 

2. Anyone exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms, including students who are sent to the Care Room, must wear a mask while waiting to be picked up.

3. Individuals who have been exposed to COVID-19 and/or identified as close contacts must wear masks while indoors for 10 days following the date of exposure, regardless of their vaccination status. 

4. Individuals returning from a five-day period of working or learning from home due to a positive COVID test or exposure  will be required to wear a mask on days 6-10 in indoor settings. Those who are unable to wear a mask or have an existing mask exemption will be instructed to remain home through day 10.

5. At the direction of CDPH, groups of individuals  may be required to wear masks. 

Week of February 28th

Progress Reports will be sent home on Friday, March 4th.  Please remember you can view your child's grades in Aspen.  Graded work is sent home regularly and many assignments are visible on Google Classroom.  

Week of January 31st

New Quarter, Fresh Start! As we begin the 3rd Quarter, it's an excellent time to revisit goals and homework routines.  Also, please check in with your child to see if they need to replenish supplies like: pencils, pens, scissors, etc.

 Week of January 17th 

Monday, January 17th we honor and remember Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  There is no school.

The 2nd Quarter is quickly coming to an end.  

• Homework is assigned regularly and is recorded in the homework planner.  Assignments are due the following day unless otherwise noted.  

• Late assignments are not accepted beyond 3 days after the due date.

• Test and quiz dates are posted in the homework planner as well as on Ms. Finke's and Ms. Ellis' pages.  We are working to build good classwork, homework, and study habits so students can show mastery on their tests/quizzes.  Please help your child set aside time to study.

•  A reminder when your child is absent, assignments do need to be made-up.  Many assignments are posted in Google Classroom.

Reminders

• Weekly COVID 19 Screening is conducted at Murray. We strongly encourage all parents to register their children. This is a preventative tool to help avert the spread of COVID 19  Please visit: https://www.color.com/readycheckgo-cps to register.  

• Monitor symptoms and stay home if your child is exhibiting symptoms: fever, cough, loss of taste/smell, fatigue, sore throat, headache, etc. Please visit the CDC website for a complete list of symptoms.

• If your child has tested positive for COVID 19, please complete the CPS Self-Reporting Form as soon as possible so that Contact Tracing can be completed.  This information remains confidential. 

• Students must wear masks at all times that cover both the nose and mouth.   This is important to keep all members of our learning community safe.  Masks can only be removed when eating or drinking.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

🎄Week of December 13th 🎄

This is the last week of school before our Winter Break.  We are all excited about the upcoming holiday and break from work and school.  Please know we will continue to work hard these last five days to make our days in school count.  In recent days we have been spending a great deal of time repeating directions and expectations that have been taught and practiced all year long.  Please speak with your child about the importance of coming in each day, ready to learn, ready to be respectful to classmates and teachers.  We want to end the year on a positive note!

Friday Celebration -  We will complete various winter and holiday themed activities throughout the day and on Friday afternoon we will host a small celebration including a movie and special snack.

Have a Wonderful break and please review and follow CPS Covid protocols below

CPS Covid Protocols

We hope that you all are staying safe and remain in good health at this time. This is just a quick note reminding parents of the importance of reporting any positive Covid cases with their child/children. We all know that by reporting, this will keep the spread of the CoronaVirus at a minimum in our classrooms as well as at Murray as a whole. If your child is feeling ill, a precautionary Covid Test is recommended. If your child has traveled to another state or country, CPS Guidelines state that students should quarantine for 10 days before returning to school.

*Full vaccination requires having both doses and includes a two week period after receiving the second dose.*

If your child has tested positive for the CoronaVirus, please report it at: https://chicagopsprod.service-now.com/health?id=cps_self_report  The information reported is completely confidential.

🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄

Covid Self-Reporting 

We hope that you all are staying safe and remain in good health at this time. This is just a quick note reminding parents of the importance of reporting any positive Covid cases with their child/children. We all know that by reporting, this will keep the spread of the CoronaVirus at a minimum in our classrooms as well as at Murray as a whole. If your child is feeling ill, a precautionary Covid Test is recommended. If your child has traveled to another state or country, CPS Guidelines state that students should quarantine for 10 days before returning to school.

*Full vaccination requires having both doses and includes a two week period after receiving the second dose.*

If your child has tested positive for the CoronaVirus, please report it at: https://chicagopsprod.service-now.com/health?id=cps_self_report  The information reported is completely confidential.

Week of November 15th

Report Card Pick-up - Thank you for signing up for Report Card Conferences.  An email was sent to confirm our meeting time.  Please remember it is a very full day with back-to-back conferences and we will do our very best to talk with you at the arranged time.

Upcoming Dates:

• Thursday, November 11th - Veteran's Day, No School

• Friday, November 12th - Vaccination Awareness Day, No School

• Wednesday, November 17th - Parent Conferences, No School

• November 24th-November 26th - Thanksgiving Break, No School

Week of November 1st

It's hard to believe it's the first of November already! 

Friday, November 5th is a non-attendance day for students.

Thank you to all of the parents who have signed up for Parent Teacher Conferences which are scheduled for Wednesday, November 17th.  We will be in touch soon to confirm your time.  If you haven't done so, please look in your inbox for an email from your child's homeroom teacher and sign-up.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Week of October 18th

Picture Day is Monday, October 18th.  The informational envelope was sent home first of the month.

Week of October 4th

As we begin the 6th week of school, the Essentials schedule will have a slight shift. Please see below.

Progress Reports are being sent home on Friday, October 1st. Please review with your child.  As always, your child's individual progress can be monitored in Aspen and some assignments are visible in Google Classroom. 

Tardies and Early Dismissals - we are noticing an increase in tardies and early dismissals. We value every minute of the school day with your child and plan for maximizing learning from 8:45-3:45.  

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Week of September 20th

As we begin the fourth week of school, our rhythms and routines are becoming more secure each day.  A few reminders:

• Please send in ALL forms ASAP.  We must update the school files. Please let us know if you have questions and we will do our best to help.

• School Supplies - we are noticing that students are depending on our classroom pencils and supplies. Please help to make sure your child has a steady supply of pencils as we use them throughout the day and the notebooks and folders we requested.

• Morning Arrival - please have your child to school so she/he can line-up at 8:40 for prompt entry into school.  Tardiness not only affects your child, but interrupts the whole class.

Have a wonderful week!

Week of September 6th 

We made it through the first week of school!  Hip Hip Hooray! Thank you for all of the support you have provided your child to prepare for the new school year.  Your guidance to help students gather and organize materials, mentally prepare for the return after a long time away, and for students in 203, a quick transition to temporary remote learning.  We are very grateful for all you do! We are looking forward to a successful Week 2!

Important Information

Virtual Back to School Night is Wednesday, September 8th @ 6pm

• Click here for the Link to the Live Meeting

• The meeting will be Recorded and posted here.

Creating a Classroom Mission Statement

This week we will work to develop our  class mission statements in homerooms.  This co-created statement will guide and drive our classroom culture and articulate the values, goals, and norms we hold closely.  This important statement helps hold us all accountable for our common goals.

Please return forms to school as soon as possible. Thank you!

🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁