Dear Parents and Guardians,

Welcome aboard to a brand new school year at Greer High School! My name is Jo Tonnesen (Ms. T.), and I’m so excited to be your student’s teacher in the ID Mod program this year. While this is my first year teaching at Greer High, I bring three years of experience from the alternative school program and a passion for supporting students as they grow into their most independent and confident selves.

This year, our classroom will be traveling with a theme I’ve created especially for our students:

✈️🌍"Passport to Possibility: Travel, Adventure & Dream!" 🌟🧳

We’ll use this theme to inspire our learning, our growth, and our classroom community. Whether we’re building life skills, exploring new academic challenges, or developing social strengths, the idea is simple: your student is on a journey, and every skill they master is a new stamp in their passport. The adventure ahead is exciting, and I want each student to see their future not as something to fear, but as a wide-open world full of possibilities to dream big and explore.

🎒 Packing Smart for the Journey

To help us stay organized and ready to learn each day, I’d like to share a few expectations for what students should (and shouldn’t) bring to school. In order to protect students from arriving with over-packed backpacks or bringing unnecessary items from home, which can become distractions or even safety concerns.

To keep things light and focused this year, we ask that all non-essential items stay at home.
We’ll be providing all the school supplies your student needs—so there’s no need to pack pencils, folders, or paper.

✅ Approved Items to Pack for Our Daily Adventure ✨🧳
Your student may bring the following items to help them have a successful, comfortable day in our classroom:

1️⃣ 💧 Leak-proof water bottle – Water only, please! No flavored drink packets, sodas, or juices. Hydration is key to focus and energy!

2️⃣ 🧥 Jacket or hoodie – Classrooms can get chilly, and staying warm helps us stay focused and comfy.

3️⃣ 🧸 One special fidget toy – If helpful for your student, feel free to send one labeled fidget toy. It will be stored in your student’s bin and available during appropriate times.

4️⃣ 👕 Change of clothes (including undergarments) – Feel free to pack a spare set just in case your child has an accident or needs a refresh during the day. Make sure names are printed on all tags.

💌 If there’s anything else you believe would support your student’s success, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m more than happy to collaborate with you to create a plan that meets your child’s individual needs. Let’s make this year one of travel, adventure, and dreams! 🌍✨✈️

✏️ All Supplies Provided!

No need to send any academic supplies—our classroom is fully stocked and ready to go! We’ll be using hands-on, interactive, and fun activities to help students build skills that prepare them for the next stage in their journey. If there are any helpful resources or supplies we can use as the school year continues, I will include these requests in the weekly newsletter. 

💬 Let’s Stay Connected

I will be sending regular updates, notes home, and communication through email or phone when needed. I believe that the best outcomes happen when we partner together, so never hesitate to reach out if you have questions, concerns, or great ideas to support your child’s success.

🧭 The Journey Ahead

In our "Passport to Possibility" classroom, every student is the explorer of their own future. We'll celebrate the little wins, overcome challenges together, and focus on building real-world skills that will serve your student long after the final bell rings.

I’m honored to be part of this journey with your student—and with you. Thank you for trusting me with their adventure this year.

Let’s get packed and ready for an incredible year full of travel, adventure, and dreams!

With appreciation,
Ms. T.
 

 📧 jtonnesen@greenville.k12.sc.us 📍 Room #75 📞 School Phone: 864-355-577