Dear Parents:

Hello! My name is Jen Carter and I will be your child’s teacher this year.  Before the year gets under way, I’m taking this opportunity to let you know how happy I am that your child will be in my class.

I have been a part of the Walsh School community since 1998 and am looking forward to another exciting and rewarding school year. I hold a master’s degree in education and have continued my professional development through additional coursework and training beyond my graduate studies.

I am dedicated to making this a busy, productive, and terrific year for all of my students and will be communicating with you often about my classroom plans, your child’s progress, school events, and other activities as they arise. Adjusting to first grade can be a struggle for both parents and students. First grade brings more responsibilities, different routines, a new teacher, and new friends. Your child will be very busy this school year. You will be astonished by your child’s growth throughout the school year.

We use the Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) program. CKLA is a comprehensive language arts curriculum that helps students develop strong skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It is designed in two main strands: the Skills Strand, which focuses on phonics, spelling, grammar, and writing, and the Knowledge Strand, which builds students' understanding of science, history, literature, and culture through engaging read-alouds and vocabulary development. In the early grades, students learn to decode words, write sentences and paragraphs, and gain background knowledge on a wide range of topics—from the five senses and animals to ancient civilizations and American history. CKLA lessons are structured and research-based, providing clear support for teachers and consistent learning for students. The curriculum grows with students each year, reinforcing key concepts while introducing more complex texts and writing tasks. At home, families can support learning by reading together, practicing spelling and sight words, and discussing what their child is learning in class. CKLA empowers students to become confident readers and thinkers by combining foundational literacy skills with rich content knowledge—giving them the tools they need to succeed across all subjects.

Our math series is called “Bridges.”   The Bridges in Mathematics curriculum for first grade emphasizes deep understanding of math concepts through visual models, hands-on activities, and problem-solving. It integrates number sense, operations, geometry, and measurement with daily routines and engaging games. The curriculum supports both individual and collaborative learning, building a strong foundation for future math success. 

Social -Emotional support lessons will be implemented daily throughout our day daily.

I am looking forward to sharing this year with you and your child!! Always feel free to contact me if you have any concerns or questions.

                                                                                                                               Sincerely,     

                                                                                                                               Mrs. Carter