November
Week of : 11/10/25
Announcements:
NO SCHOOL TUESDAY NOV 11 in honor of Veteran's Day.
Rainy weather: We've had a week of wet weather and it is important for students to have proper gear for all weather outside play. Many students are coming in from recess and PE very wet. Please send your student to school with rain jackets and appropriate rain shoes. Please let us know if your child needs these items as we have a closet they can borrow them from.
All School Meeting! Mark your calendars: the Merlins will be presenting at Friday's All School Meeting at 9a in the District Office. We'd love for you to be there.
The first Level 3 & 4 Dance Party of the year is coming up soon: Students in 5th-8th grades are invited to the dance party 5:30-7 p.m. Fri., Nov. 14 in the Grove Room/District Office, 1728 Main Street. The theme is Glow Party, so suggested attire is white or bright colors that 'pop' under black lights.
Volunteer chaperones and snack donations are needed to make the party safe and fun. Please contact principal Vanessa Gray at v.gray@fgcschool.org or 503-359-4600 for more information or to volunteer.
Out & About:
This past week we had an exciting trip into Portland to learn about what the city is doing to create more sustainable systems to care for our natural resources and the community. We visited the Eco-Trust building, Tanner Creek, Pioneer Square, and the Tilikum Bridge. Be sure to ask your child what they found interesting about the tour.
Project:
Next week in Project we will begin our sustainable design project. Students will use brainstorming and the design process to create a system that benefits our community.
Writing:
This week, our poets have been working hard to wrap up our Poetry Unit—adding final touches to their poems and deciding which one they’ll share with an audience, and assembling their beautiful anthologies.
Ask your student which poem they selected and why. Encourage them to share what they’ve discovered during this writing journey!
Next week, we’ll be learning about the skills needed for presenting in class and practicing a few tips to build confidence when speaking in front of an audience.
Reading:
This week, we wrapped up our Love That Dog unit, our mentor text for Literacy. Students have done a wonderful job reflecting on Jack’s journey as a poet and connecting it to their own writing.
Next week, we’ll begin our new unit, Nature Adventure! In this unit, students will read a variety of books in small groups rather than one as a whole class. On Monday, they’ll learn about each book and share their top three choices, which we’ll use to form reading groups. This new structure will encourage richer discussions and give students a chance to share insights across different books.
5th Grade Math
This week, we learned and practiced how to add and subtract fractions with related units using models such as tape diagrams and area models. These visuals helped students connect their understanding of equivalent fractions and numerical renaming.
Next week, we’ll extend this knowledge to adding and subtracting fractions with unrelated units, practicing both pictorially and numerically.
As a reminder, if your child needs extra support with math homework, they are welcome to join our After School Program for additional help.
As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at m.ilquimiche@fgcschool.org if you have any questions or would like to connect.
6th Grade Math
We are done with Module 1! Congratulations to all the 6th graders (and parents on completing this challenging module). Students took their test on Friday and will have one week to do any corrections on their test for half credit. In order to get credit, on a separate piece of paper students need to list the number of the problem they are fixing, give their new answer showing their work, and explain how they got their new answer. If students only give a new answer, they will not get credit. Corrections are due Friday November 14.
This next week in math we will be doing multiplication and division review and using what we've learned in Module 1 and putting it into real world practice.
If you have any questions, please email me at h.sackett@fgcschool.org
Week of : 11/3/25
Announcements:
All School Meeting! Mark your calendars: the Merlins will be presenting at the next All School Meeting, November 14 at 9a in the District Office. We'd love for you to be there.
The first Level 3 & 4 Dance Party of the year is coming up soon: Students in 5th-8th grades are invited to the dance party 5:30-7 p.m. Fri., Nov. 14 in the Grove Room/District Office, 1728 Main Street. The theme is Glow Party, so suggested attire is white or bright colors that 'pop' under black lights.
Volunteer chaperones and snack donations are needed to make the party safe and fun. Please contact principal Vanessa Gray at v.gray@fgcschool.org or 503-359-4600 for more information or to volunteer.
Out & About:
As we get ready to begin the second part of our Sustainable Systems unit, Erin helped students start thinking about problem solving through an activity involving biomimicry. This activity involved foil, bubble wrap, tape, some dancing, and water balloons. Be sure to ask your child what it was all about.
Project:
This week we wrapped up the Ecosystems and Science Inquiry portion of our Sustainable Systems unit. Next week we will begin the design portion of the unit where students will identify a problem in town and consider sustainable solutions to solving it. Before the end of December, Students will have designed a plan to address the problem they found and then present their solution to the class.
Writing:
This week, students completed their final poems for their Poetry Anthology! They explored different sources for inspiration, used their creativity, and applied artistic skills to illustrate the themes of their poems.
Ask your student which poem was their favorite, what they found the most fun to write, and what part came easiest to them!
Next Week, we’ll focus on revising and polishing the poems they’ve already typed, finishing any that are still in progress, and continuing to build our Poetry Anthology—getting it ready to publish and share!
Reading:
This Week, we finished analyzing the story plot, the changes in the main character, and the author’s message. Ask your student: What was the final message Sharon Creech was sending to the reader through Jack’s poetry journey? and What evidence supports that interpretation?
Next week, students will complete the final parts of their assessment for the Love That Dog unit. Then, we’ll spend some time reviewing and reinforcing key reading skills before beginning our next reading unit.
5th Grade Math
This Week, we learned and practiced how to relate fractions to division. Students continued using “My Favorite Know” to review Exit Ticket answers, provide positive feedback as a class community, and strengthen understanding. We also added extra Sprints practice to reinforce background knowledge for fraction operations as we prepare to add fractions. By the end of the week, students completed their Topic A Assessment: Relating Fractions and Division.
Next Week, We will begin Topic B: Adding and Subtracting Fractions with Like Denominators.
As a reminder, if your child needs extra support with math homework, they are welcome to join our After School Program for additional help.
As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at m.ilquimiche@fgcschool.org if you have any questions or would like to connect.
6th Grade Math
This week in math we were introduced to percents. We learned how to find the percent of a number and how to use percents to determine an unknown amount. Students used benchmark percents (1%, 10%, 20%, 50%, 25%) to find unknown amounts with mental math. Challenge your child this weekend to practice finding percents to reinforce their learning. We will be having our topic quiz and Module 1 test next week.
If you want some extra support at home, check out Michael Klee's YouTube channel, looking for "Eureka Squared-Grade 6-Module 1" videos. We will be going through lesson 25-26 this next week. If needed, consider having your child attend the After School Program Tuesdays and Thursdays to receive extra one on one support in math.
If you have any questions, please email me at h.sackett@fgcschool.org
Week of : 10/27/25
Announcements:
Halloween: Just a reminder, costumes are not allowed to be worn at school on Friday.
Last call for Portland Sustainability Tour chaperones!
This trip takes place on Tuesday 11/4, from 9:15-1:30. Space is limited because we all must ride the bus, but we can take 1-2 more volunteers! Reach out to Erin if you hope to join: e.morgan@fgcschool.org.
Weather: As the weather changes, it is very important that your child come to school dressed in weather appropriate clothes. Students are outside rain or shine and need to be dressed for that. If your child needs a jacket or boots, please let us know.
All School Meeting! Mark your calendars: the Merlins will be presenting at the next All School Meeting, November 14 at 9a in the District Office. We'd love for you to be there.
Out & About:
Last week we had the opportunity to visit the art exhibit, Natural Consequences, showing the work of our past art teacher, Stephanie Woods. If your child hasn't told you about it yet, be sure to ask them about their favorite piece and what the exhibit is all about.
This week students will begin getting ready for the second part of our Sustainability Unit with a fun activity to get them thinking about systems and engineering.
Project:
This week in project, we will be wrapping up our ecosystems unit.
Writing:
This week in writing, students completed their poems inspired by the poetry presented in our mentor text Love That Dog.
Next week, we will continue our poetry work with additional free verse compositions, drawing inspiration from a variety of sources.
Reading:
This week in reading, we finished our mentor text Love That Dog and reviewed the main events through interactive games.
Next week, students will analyze additional elements of the novel, including character motivation, character change, and the author’s central message.
5th Grade Math
This week in math, we reviewed all the skills learned in Module 1 and took our first module assessment. Next week, we will start Module 2, with the first Topic being relating division to fractions.
As a reminder, if your child needs extra support with math homework, they are welcome to join our After School Program for additional help.
As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at m.ilquimiche@fgcschool.org if you have any questions or would like to connect.
6th Grade Math
This week in math we begin our last topic of Module 1: percents. In topic E, students extend their understanding of ratios and rates when they explore the meaning of percent. They will use tools and strategies developed throughout the module to model percent problems and solve for unknown percents, parts and wholes. Our quiz on this topic will be the first week of November, followed by the Module 1 test.
If you want some extra support at home, check out Michael Klee's YouTube channel, looking for "Eureka Squared-Grade 6-Module 1" videos. We will be going through lessons 22-25 this next week. If needed, consider having your child attend the After School Program Tuesdays and Thursdays to receive extra one on one support in math.
If you have any questions, please email me at h.sackett@fgcschool.org
Week of : 10/20/25
Announcements:
Fall conference sign-ups here! If you haven't signed up yet, please call Rebecca to get on the schedule. Becasue of conferences there is no school Thursday and Friday.
Please be sure your child has a water bottle with them at school each day.
Weather: As the weather changes, it is very important that your child come to school dressed in weather appropriate clothes. They are outside rain or shine and need to be dressed for that. If your child needs a jacket or boots, please let us know.
Out & About:
We had a fantastic trip the the Bird Alliance of Oregon on Tuesday. We got to learn about the work they are doing to support and protect the local ecosystem. We also got to interact with some animal pelts and skeletons, learning more about the different animals that can be found in our area.
This week we have two Out & Abouts. On Monday we will be going to visit an art show at Pacific, learning how art can be a form of activism and how art can be used as a solution to sustainability problems.
On Tuesday, Erin will be leading us through an activity that will help us understand the three pillars of sustainability.
Project:
This week in project, we will continue to explore ways to make good choices for our ecosystems while preventing unintended harm.
Writing:
This week in writing, students began practicing how to write their own poems inspired by the poems featured in the novel Love That Dog. They explored how the main character used the structure and ideas from other poets’ work as inspiration for his own writing.
Ask your student what topics have inspired their poem so far!
Next week, we’ll continue our poetry work with more free verse writing, drawing inspiration from a variety of sources.
Reading:
This week in reading, we continued exploring our mentor text Love That Dog. During our daily reading, we paused at key moments to analyze the character’s statements, draw inferences, support our ideas with evidence, and explain our reasoning.
Ask your student what big changes the main character has experienced so far — and how they know!
Next week, we’ll continue diving deeper into the story by analyzing its structure and the main character’s development.
5th Grade Math
This week in math, we wrapped up our unit on dividing whole numbers. Students reviewed several strategies to support their understanding of division, including estimation, area models, repeated subtraction, and partial products. We also revisited key and relevant vocabulary related to both division and testing. During our test preview, students practiced applying few testing strategies.
Next week, we’ll review our quiz results, select a piece of work to include in our math portfolio, and begin Module 2: All About Fractions.
As a reminder, if your child needs extra support with math homework, they are welcome to join our After School Program for additional help.
As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at m.ilquimiche@fgcschool.org if you have any questions or would like to connect.
6th Grade Math
In 6th grade math this past week, we've been looking at rates and unit rates as a way to compare quantities such as money, time, and speed. We will continue learning about unit rates and starting to convert units of measurement in order to make comparisons. Solving these problems does require multiple steps and can be challenging. Please continue to encourage your student to take their time and be ok with productive struggle. Our next topic quiz will be on Wednesday, Oct 22.
If you want some extra support at home, check out Michael Klee's YouTube channel, looking for "Eureka Squared-Grade 6-Module 1" videos. We will be going through lessons 20-21 this next week. If needed, consider having your child attend the After School Program Tuesdays and Thursdays to receive extra one on one support in math.
If you have any questions, please email me at h.sackett@fgcschool.org
Week of : 10/13/25
Announcements:
Fall conference sign-ups are coming! Fall conferences are a chance for us to discuss how your child is doing and make a plan for how we can all work together to help them be successful this school year. We hope to see you there!
Mark your calendars: No school: October 17, 23, 24
Out & About:
For our Out & About this past week, the Falcons spent the day at Fernhill Wetlands testing the science inquiry questions they created in their groups. Groups explored the number of birds in different areas of the wetlands, counted critters, examined different varieties of plants, looked for evidence of wildlife as well as tested water quality, turbidity and dissolved oxygen. Big shout out of gratitude to all the volunteers that came out to help. Your presence makes a huge difference in the experience our students have.
This coming week we will be headed to the Bird Alliance (formerly the Portland Audubon Society) to learn about the interdependent relationships that shape our local ecosystem.
Project:
This week in project we discussed the ways humans can impact the local ecosystem and specific things students can to do have a positive impact on the world around them.
Writing:
This week, students practiced writing free verse poetry, which allowed them to explore different poem structures, also known as form. We continued to emphasize the use of imagery as an essential tool for creating vivid scenes and setting the tone of a poem.
Ask your child: Which of the poems they wrote this week was the most interesting to them, and why?
Next week, we’ll continue our poetry work, this time drawing inspiration from the poems featured in Love That Dog. We’ve reached the part of the novel where the main character begins to experience success and joy in writing, finding inspiration from other poets—just as our students will!
Reading:
This week in reading, students continued exploring Love That Dog, focusing on how a character’s actions and words help us understand more about who they are. We also practiced using inference skills to dig deeper into Jack’s feelings and growth throughout the story. During our group discussions, students worked on strengthening their written responses by supporting their ideas with evidence from the text. Additionally, we made meaningful connections between our reading and writing lessons by identifying poetic devices found in the novel.
Ask your child: What big change have you noticed in the main character so far? How do you know?
Next week, we’ll continue developing our reading skills and strategies to help us think critically and read beyond the literal meaning of the text.
5th Grade Math
This week in math, students practiced dividing whole numbers using several helpful strategies to make the process easier and more meaningful. These included estimation, tape diagrams, skip counting, and using multiplication to check both the number of groups and the final quotient. Students also reflected on their work during Exit Tickets to identify what worked well and where they could continue to grow through our math routine “My Favorite No.”
Next week, we’ll continue exploring division, this time using area models and the standard (vertical) algorithm to solve problems with two-digit quotients. By the end of the week, students will complete their Topic Assessment. Expect a short quiz-prep homework the day before the test to help them review key concepts.
As a reminder, if your child needs extra support with math homework, they are welcome to join our After School Program for additional help.
As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at m.ilquimiche@fgcschool.org if you have any questions or would like to connect.
6th Grade Math
This week in math, students continued to use multiple tools to represent collections of equivalent ratios and compare ratio relationships. As we start Topic D on Monday, students will discover the rates and unit rates that correspond to ratio relationships.
Don't forget, if you want some extra support at home, check out Michael Klee's YouTube channel, looking for "Eureka Squared-Grade 6-Module 1" videos. We will be going through lessons 17-20 this next week. If needed, consider having your child attend the After School Program Tuesdays and Thursdays to receive extra one on one support in math.
If you have any questions, please email me at h.sackett@fgcschool.org
Week of : 10/06/25
Announcements:
There is an All School Meeting on Friday, Oct 10th at 9am in the District Office community room. The Barn Swallows and Great Horned Owls will be presenting. Because it is an ASM day, it is also spirit day and the theme is dinosaurs. Students may dress up in dinosaur theme but may not wear blow-up costumes, masks or bring toys to school. The Merlins will be presenting November 14.
Volunteers needed: We have a few big Out & Abouts in October - please join us for an upcoming adventure! Don't forget to fill out a background check if you haven't already, then email Erin, e.morgan@fgcschool.org, to sign up.
Tuesday, October 7th: Fernhill Wetlands, meet at the wetlands, 10-1:15. High volunteer need!
Tuesday, October 14th: Portland Bird Alliance, 9:15-1:30 or meet at the Bird Alliance 10:25-12:50. High volunteer need!
Tuesday, November 4th: Portland Bridge / Sustainability Tour, 9:15-1:30
Out & About:
This past week, we visited B Street Farm and explored the different members of our ecosystem: producers, consumers, and decomposers. We used these members to create connection circles, illustrating how each one plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystem.
This coming week we will be heading to Fernhill Wetlands. During our visit to the wetlands we will be gathering data to compare the biodiversity in two different wetland zones. We will also analyze interrelationships at the wetlands.
Project:
This past week in Project, we learned how changes in an ecosystem can greatly affect other members within it. While listening to a Radio Lab podcast, we discovered how trees work together through a fascinating and unexpected creature. Ask your child to tell you more about it!
Writing:
This week, students completed their third piece of writing: “Where I’m From.” It was a beautiful assignment that gave students the opportunity to explore their family histories, reflect on traditions and special memories, and recognize the moments that are meaningful to them. Along the way, we also learned and practiced poetry devices such as alliteration and repetition, discovering how these tools help create rhythm and flow in a poem’s lines and verses.
Ask your student to share one example they created using one of these devices!
Next week, students will continue practicing short poetry writing while learning and experimenting with new poetry devices.
Reading:
This week, students practiced leading discussions while analyzing poetry devices in the poems from our mentor text, Love That Dog. During these discussions, students also practiced explaining and justifying their thinking by referring back to specific words and phrases in the poems.
Ask your student: Which poem did they like the most, and why? How did the poetry devices help them understand the meaning of the poem?
Next week, we’ll continue exploring Love That Dog, studying the challenges Jack, the main character, is experiencing, and “thinking deeper” as we interpret the characters’ actions.
5th Grade Math
This week in math, 5th graders continued practicing multiplication of whole numbers using two strategies: Area Model and Standard Algorithm, along with estimation to strengthen mental math skills. On Wednesday, students worked diligently while previewing our upcoming quiz. We also practiced "Math Clues", "My Favorite No" and "Sprints" to further build fluency.
Next week, students will begin a new unit: Division of Whole Numbers. We will start by dividing by multiples of 10, followed by a variety of problems involving multi-digit dividends and divisors.
Homework will continue to be assigned daily, with the exception of Fridays.
As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at m.ilquimiche@fgcschool.org if you have any questions or would like to connect.
6th Grade Math
If your child has mentioned that ratios are challenging, they’re correct—and I’m very proud of their focus and hard work these past weeks. This week, we finished Topic B and on Thursday we began Topic C with a fun rhyme to help guide us:
"Table, graph or number line,
Check the ratios, are they fine?
Same line up, same shade true,
Different lines mean different too!"
In Topic C, students will explore various representations of ratio relationships and determine whether they show the same relationship. This rhyme will remind them what to look for when making that decision. Students can expect their next quiz on Friday, October 10.
Don't forget, if you want some extra support at home, check out Michael Klee's YouTube channel, looking for "Eureka Squared-Grade 6-Module 1" videos. We will be going through lessons 13-15 this next week. Please consider having your child attend the After School Program Tuesdays and Thursdays to receive extra one on one support in math.
If you have any questions, please email me at h.sackett@fgcschool.org
Week of : 09/29/25
Announcements:
After School Program: L3 ASP started last week. If your child will be going, please contact Rebecca to let her know. The ASP is a place where your child can stay after school and receive help with their homework from our Instructional Aids.
Chess Club: We are offering Chess Club again this year, starting Thursday, October 2nd. Watch for more details to come.
Volunteers needed: We have a few big Out & Abouts in October - please join us for an upcoming adventure! Don't forget to fill out a background check if you haven't already, then email Erin, e.morgan@fgcschool.org, to sign up.
Tuesday, September 30th: Blooming B Street farm. Kestrels 11:30-1:30 / Merlins 12:45-3
Tuesday, October 7th: Fernhill Wetlands, meet at the wetlands, 10-1:15. High volunteer need!
Tuesday, October 14th: Portland Bird Alliance, 9:15-1:30 or meet at the Bird Alliance 10:25-12:50. High volunteer need!
Tuesday, November 4th: Portland Bridge / Sustainability Tour, 9:15-1:30
Out & About:
This past week, the Merlins visited Nana Cardoon’s sustainable homestead to learn about science and agriculture—and enjoyed making salsa and fresh pressed apple juice. Meanwhile, the Kestrels were busy in the garden working on wrapping up their science inquiry project.
This coming week, we’ll head to Blooming B Street Farm to develop systems thinking skills as we explore the farm ecosystem. While there, we’ll investigate the question: “How do elements of the natural ecosystem and farm ecosystem interact?”
Project:
This past week in Project, as we continued exploring the parts of an ecosystem, we focused on decomposers and their vital role in maintaining a balanced environment. On Monday, we discussed how a simple pair of cotton underwear can reveal important information about soil health. Curious? Ask your child to share what they learned from the fascinating article we read and how a buried pair of underwear can give clues about what is or isn't happening in the soil.
Writing:
This week, students completed their second piece of writing: “Metaphor About Self.” Along the way, we learned and practiced more about poetry devices, including metaphors and similes
You might ask your student: What was easy about writing a poem using only metaphors? What was more challenging?
Next week, students will begin a new piece of writing: the “Where I’m From” poem. This project will give them the opportunity to explore their family roots, reflect on special moments and memories, and celebrate the uniqueness of their own families.
Reading:
This week, students practiced writing daily summaries of the sections we read and making predictions about what might happen next. They also worked on using context clues to determine the meaning of unfamiliar words. In addition, we began practicing how to discuss questions in our reading groups.
You might ask your student: What have you learned about Jack so far? How do you connect with Jack’s perspective on writing poetry?
Next week, we’ll begin analyzing the poems presented in the novel Love That Dog, along with the versions written by the main character, Jack.
5th Grade Math
This week in math, 5th graders began a new topic: Multiplication of Multi-Digit Whole Numbers. Students practiced writing numbers in expanded form and then applied that understanding to the area model for multiplication. By the end of the week, they began connecting the area model to the more algebraic method of multiplication. To build fluency, students worked on several sprints and engaged in math routines such as “My Favorite No” and “Which One Doesn’t Belong?”
Next week, students will get additional practice with multiplication using the standard algorithm. This will be followed by a topic review and a quiz by midweek. By the end of the week, we’ll begin Topic C: Division of Multi-Digit Whole Numbers.
Homework will continue to be assigned daily, with the exception of Fridays.
As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at m.ilquimiche@fgcschool.org if you have any questions or would like to connect.
6th Grade Math
This week in math, the 6th graders used addition and multiplication patterns to write equivalent ratios. After graphing the equivalent ratios, students were able to see the ratio relationships by noting patterns made after plotting the points. This next week we will wrap up Topic B (students can expect a quiz on Tuesday or Wednesday) and start Topic C (lessons 12-15). In Topic C, students will examine different representations of ratio relationships to determine whether they
represent the same ratio relationship. They will also begin writing detailed and precise comparative statements.
Don't forget, if you want some extra support at home, check out Michael Klee's YouTube channel, looking for "Eureka Squared-Grade 6-Module 1" videos. We will be going through lessons 12-15 this next week.
Please consider having your child attend the After School Program Tuesdays and Thursdays to receive extra support in math.
If you have any questions, please email me at h.sackett@fgcschool.org
Week of : 09/22/25
Announcements:
After School Program: L3 ASP starts this week (Tuesday, Sept 23)! The program runs Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 3:15pm - 4:10pm. Snacks will be provided. Please have after school transportation arranged as there is no bus. If your child will be going, please contact Rebecca to let her know.
Picture Day: Click here for more information about picture days and ordering print or digital photos. Purchasing photos is completely optional. There will be a 10-day ordering window during which ALL orders must be placed, so please don't delay ordering once you receive the order link. Keep an eye out for a message with the gallery view/order link in late September.
Photo orders are shipped directly to you. Photo and shipping costs are listed on the PSP website. Please reach out directly to PSP at info@portlandschoolportraits.com with any questions about student photos.
Chess Club: We are offering Chess Club again this year, starting Thursday, October 2nd. Watch for more details to come.
Volunteers needed: Interested in volunteering? We can use your help.
Nana Cardoon's Farm: The Merlins could use one more adult to join their trip to Nana Cardoon's Farm on Tuesday. It is a mile walk there if you'd like to join us on the walk, or you can drive and meet us there.
Tuesday, September 23rd: Merlin Class
Tuesday, October 7th: Fernhill Wetlands, 9:40-1:30. We'd like lots of parent support so that student groups can investigate the birds and other fall wildlife at Fernhill today!
Tuesday, October 14th: Portland Bird Alliance, 9:15-1:30. Join us on an ecosystems science program at this forest education center! Seeking volunteers that can drive or carpool to the Bird Alliance and are comfortable walking ~1 mile on uneven terrain.
Complete the district background check and email Erin, e.morgan@fgcschool.org, to sign up!
Out & About:
This past week the Kestrels went to Nana Cardoon's to learn about science and agriculture in her sustainable homestead and made a tasty garden based snack. While the Kestrels were at Nana Cardoon's farm, the Merlins were in the garden completing their science inquiry project. This week, the Kestrels will work on their project in the garden while the Merlins are at Nana Cardoon's.
Project:
This past week in Project, we learned about consumers in the ecosystem and the role that they play in our keeping our environment balanced. We were visited by Dr Jamie from Metro who taught us about pests and pesticides and ways that we can identify and deal with pests without using harmful pesticides. During her visit, many students had the opportunity to pet her special friend...a cockroach!
Writing:
This week, students explored different perspectives on what makes a poem. They also began their first poetry activity, “The Important Thing About…”, working with a partner of their choice. This activity introduced them to free verse poetry and encouraged them to express their ideas in their own words, style, and tone.
At home, you might ask your student: What did you enjoy most about creating your “Important Thing About…” poem?
Next week, students will begin a new piece of writing: “The Metaphor of Self” poem. This project will give students the opportunity to reflect on themselves, recognize their strengths and qualities, and express them creatively through poetry. As we go through the drafting and revising process, students will continue to practice and reinforce their understanding of poetic devices such as metaphor and simile.
Reading:
This week, students previewed our new mentor text, Love That Dog by Sharon Creech. We began with a short introduction to the author’s remarkable career, then students shared their predictions about the story and what they think it might be about.
At home, you might ask your student: What are your first impressions of Love That Dog? What do you like—or wonder—about the story so far?
Next week, we’ll dive into reading Love That Dog together. Students will continue building their reading routines and practicing key skills such as determining the meaning of important vocabulary, while also applying strategies like predicting, summarizing, and asking thoughtful questions to deepen their understanding of the text.
5th Grade Math
This week in math, 5th graders dove into the world of place value of Whole Numbers! Students practiced comparing and relating both adjacent and non-adjacent digits by applying their knowledge of multiplication and division. They took their learning a step further by exploring how numbers connect through the powers of ten within our base-10 system. It was exciting to see students stretch their thinking and build confidence as they discovered new ways numbers are related!
Next week, students will have a module review and take their first formal assessment for Topic A. By midweek, we’ll launch into Topic B: Multiplication of Multi-Digit Whole Numbers, an exciting step where students apply what they know to larger problems.
Homework will continue to be assigned daily, with the exception of Fridays.
As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at m.ilquimiche@fgcschool.org if you have any questions or would like to connect.
6th Grade Math
In 6th grade math this week we dove into ratios! The 6th graders worked together on Friday to show me what they've learned on a practice quiz. On Monday, they will have a quick independent assessment to review what we've what they know before we start Topic B.
This coming week we will start Topic B (lessons 6-11). In these lessons we will start using the term "ratio relationships" and use new tools, such as double number lines and graphs, to model and understand these relationships. Don't forget, if you want some extra support at home, check out Michael Klee's YouTube channel, looking for "Eureka Squared-Grade 6-Module 1" videos. We will be going through lessons 6-9 this next week.
Also, After School Program starts this Tuesday which is a great resource if your child needs more support in math.
If you have any questions, please email me at h.sackett@fgcschool.org
Week of : 09/15/25
Announcements:
After School Program: L3 ASP will start next week (Tuesday, Sept 23). We will run this program Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 3:15pm - 4:10pm.
Chess Club: We are offering Chess Club again this year, starting Thursday, Sept. 18
Volunteers needed: to join us on the following Out & Abouts, especially for our trip to Nana Cardoon's farm this week (Kestrels) and next week (Merlins). Your presence helps us create smaller groups for students, giving them a more individualized experience. Thank you.
Nana Cardoon Farm: Join students at this sustainable homestead to craft a garden-based snack and investigate science and agriculture. Timing: 12-3pm. Be ready for a 1 mile walk each way, or meet us there!
Tuesday, September 16th: Kestrel Class
Tuesday, September 23rd: Merlin Class
Tuesday, October 7th: Fernhill Wetlands, 9:40-1:30. We'd like lots of parent support so that student groups can investigate the birds and other fall wildlife at Fernhill today!
Tuesday, October 14th: Portland Bird Alliance, 9:15-1:30. Join us on an ecosystems science program at this forest education center! Seeking volunteers that can drive or carpool to the Bird Alliance and are comfortable walking ~1 mile on uneven terrain.
Interested in volunteering? Yes, please! Complete the district background check and email Erin, e.morgan@fgcschool.org, to sign up!
Out & About:
Last week, we visited the garden to learn about photosynthesis and started science inquiry by brainstorming testable garden problems.
This week, the Kestrels will visit Nana Cardoons, while the Merlins continue developing their science inquiry skills.
Project:
This week in project, we continued studying systems by exploring different parts of an ecosystem, focusing on producers. On Friday, we brainstormed testable questions while creating a bean maze that we will observe over the next week.
Next week, we will learn about consumers in an ecosystem and their role.
Writing:
This week in writing, students collaborated to brainstorm meaningful ideas that will guide our classroom throughout the school year as part of our Classroom Compromise. We also continued practicing our writing routines and enjoyed short warm-up activities to strengthen our writing skills.
Next week, students will officially begin their poetry unit! They will have the opportunity to work collaboratively with a partner, getting to know each other better while creating a poem titled “The Important Thing About…”.
Reading:
This week in reading, our class began exploring the fundamentals of poetry by reading sample poems that showcase the many ways poets use words to express feelings and paint vivid pictures in the reader’s mind. We also began our formal reading assessments.
Next week, we will start reading our mentor text, Love That Dog—a book written in verse that gives students the chance to experience poetry from the perspective of a student their own age. We will kick off the week by setting a reading goal, learning more about the author, and making predictions about the story.
5th Grade Math
This week, 5th grade students have been practicing a variety of math routines, games, and sprints. They are also building the habit of bringing papers to and from school, an important step in establishing a consistent homework routine.
Next week, we will officially begin our Math books with Module 1: Place Value of Whole Numbers. Starting Monday, students will begin receiving daily math homework, which will be due the following day.
As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at m.ilquimiche@fgcschool.org if you have any questions or would like to connect.
6th Grade Math
In 6th grade math this week we did a lot of skill review to get our minds ready for our first module. We practiced setting up our notebooks which will be a useful tool to help students remember what we've learned and be available for reference on tests.
On Friday we began our first lesson on ratios. Starting on Monday, students can expect homework almost every night except for Friday. Students are expected to spend 20 minutes a night on math homework and parents need to initial the top page of their work each night. Homework is always due the following day.
Last week I mentioned sending out a math email...I haven't done it yet but I'll hopefully get it out very soon. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please email me at h.sackett@fgcschool.org
Week of : 09/08/25
Welcome to our first weekly newsletter of the school year! Each week, we'll share highlights from our classrooms, upcoming focus areas, and important reminders for Out & Abouts, due dates, and more to keep you connected and informed. Looking forward to a wonderful year together.
Announcements:
We are looking for volunteers to join us on three upcoming outings:
Nana Cardoon Farm: Join students at this sustainable homestead to craft a garden-based snack and investigate science and agriculture. Timing: 12-3pm. Be ready for a 1 mile walk each way, or meet us there!
Tuesday, September 16th: Kestrel Class
Tuesday, September 23rd: Merlin Class
Tuesday, October 7th: Fernhill Wetlands, 9:40-1:30. We'd like lots of parent support so that student groups can investigate the birds and other fall wildlife at Fernhill today!
Tuesday, October 14th: Portland Bird Alliance, 9:15-1:30. Join us on an ecosystems science program at this forest education center! Seeking volunteers that can drive or carpool to the Bird Alliance and are comfortable walking ~1 mile on uneven terrain.
Interested in volunteering? Yes, please! Complete the district background check and email Erin, e.morgan@fgcschool.org, to sign up!
Out & About:
This week, we had an introduction to O&A adventures in L3 by Erin and had fun learning about systems and playing a few games to get us thinking about how systems work.
Next week, we will be in the garden starting to learn about science inquiry.
Project:
This week in project, we learned and practiced expectations and procedures in L3.
Next week, we will start our science unit about systems. In this unit, students will learn about ecosystems, science inquiry, and work on designing a sustainable system to address a situation that could be improved.
Writing:
This week in writing, students were introduced to what our writing block looks like and learned about the routines that will guide our work. We also added some fun “sparkle” to our writing time with games and activities designed to help us get to know one another.
Next week, students will collaborate to create our Classroom Compromise. This project will involve team discussions and a class agreement where students compile ideas to outline guidelines for making good choices, helping us build and maintain a safe, respectful, and supportive classroom community.
Reading:
This week in reading, our class was introduced to our first unit of study: poetry. We also spent time reviewing and practicing the routines that will guide us during reading class, helping students feel comfortable and confident with expectations as we begin this journey together.
Next week, we will begin exploring some of the basic ideas and concepts of poetry by reading sample poems that show the many ways poets use words to express feelings or paint pictures in the reader’s mind. We will also begin formal Reading Assessments, which will be conducted one-on-one. These assessments will give us valuable insight into each student’s reading strengths and areas for growth, so we can best support them throughout the year.
5th Grade Math
Our 5th grade math journey has started with lots of energy and enthusiasm! This week, students explored what it means to be a mathematician at this level. We took time to introduce the different activities we’ll be doing in math class and began practicing our routines through games, sprints, and “get-to-know-you” activities that all involved numbers.
Next week, we’ll launch into a couple of fun math projects designed to give me a glimpse of students’ understanding of place value concepts before we dive into our 5th grade math books.
As always, please feel free to reach out to me at m.ilquimiche@fgcschool.org if you have any questions or would like to connect.
6th Grade Math
Welcome to 6th grade math! It is going to be a great year. This week we got to know each other and talked about what it means to be a mathematician. Next week we will start working with numbers again as we get ready to dive into our first module which is all about ratios.
I will be sending an email home next week to share a bit more about 6th grade math. Please be on the lookout for it. If you have any questions, please email me at h.sackett@fgcschool.org