Ms. Katie's Mexico Grand Prix

"It doesn't matter where we start... it matters where we finish."

- Sergio 'Checo' Pérez, Mexican Formula 1 Driver

Bienvenidos, welcome to 1st grade! I’m Ms. Katie, and I’m so excited to have your child in my class this year. We’re going to have a wonderful time learning, growing, and exploring together!

This year, our classroom is Ms. Katie’s Mexico Grand Prix—a bright, welcoming place where every child is part of the team. Just like a racing team, we will work together, cheer each other on, practice kindness, and keep moving forward one lap at a time. Along the way, we'll also explore the rich culture, geography, traditions, wildlife, and history of Mexico, helping students discover what makes this incredible country so unique. Our classroom will be a place where every child is valued, supported, and encouraged to do their personal best.

I can’t wait for a year full of learning, teamwork, friendship, cultural discovery, and fun as we race toward an amazing 1st grade year together!

Important Information & Reminders

School Hours

School: 8:20 AM – 2:50 PM
Students should be in class and ready to learn by 8:30 AM.
Morning drop-off: Picnic tables by the upstairs entrance
Afternoon pickup: Same picnic table area
Students not picked up by 3:05 PM will be escorted to After Care (ECC Hall).

Snack & Lunch

Morning Snack: 9:30–9:45 AM (healthy snacks only—no juice or sugary treats)
Lunch: 11:00–11:30 AM
Afternoon Snack: 1:45–2:00 PM
The school canteen is available for snack and lunch purchases.

Homework

Homework is kept to a minimum.
Read 15–20 minutes every day.
Weekly spelling practice is encouraged.
Homework is sent home in Homework Folders—please check backpacks daily.
Review sheets before assessments are optional but encouraged.

Friday Folders

Sent home every Friday.
Please:
- Review your child's work.
- Read any notices.
- Empty the folder.
- Return it on Monday.

Assessments & Grades

Grades are posted on PowerSchool.
Upcoming assessments are announced at least one week in advance on PowerSchool and ClassDojo.
Students receive plenty of practice before assessments.
Students scoring below 65% may complete a retake (maximum retake grade: 70%).

Communication

ClassDojo: Primary classroom communication
Email: kcaputo@luschool.com
Weekly classroom updates are posted on ClassDojo.
Check ClassDojo and email regularly for important updates.
To schedule a meeting, send me a message on ClassDojo or email.

Birthdays

Students may dress down on their birthday.
Classroom celebrations are welcome but never expected.
Please message me on ClassDojo in advance if you'd like to celebrate at school.
Interested in sharing a cultural celebration with our class? I'd love to hear from you!

Uniform

Wear the LU uniform daily unless otherwise announced.
Sneakers are expected every day.
PE Uniform: Thursdays

A Little Extra Love

If your child is having a difficult morning or may need a little extra encouragement, please send me a quick message on ClassDojo. A simple note lets me know they may need a little extra patience, kindness, or a check-in that day.

Attendance

Regular attendance is important.
Please notify both me and the office if your child will be absent or late.
Missed work can always be made up.

Supplies

Bring all required school supplies.
Please label personal belongings.
Toys should stay at home unless requested.
I'll let you know when classroom supplies need to be replenished.

Get Involved!

Interested in helping this year?

Become a Class Parent Representative
Chaperone field trips
Be a Guest Reader
Share your career, hobby, culture, or talents with our class

Please send me a message on ClassDojo if you'd like to volunteer!

About Ms. Katie

I’m a proud LU alum, and it’s an incredible privilege to be back at the school that helped shape me. Returning as a teacher truly feels like coming full circle, and I’m grateful to now be part of the same community that inspired me as a student.

After graduating from LU, I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Loyola University Chicago. Although my career began in communications, I soon discovered that my heart was in education. Last year, I had the joy of teaching Grade 1 at LU, and it only confirmed that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.

I believe children learn best when they feel safe, valued, challenged, and excited to come to school each day. My goal is to create a classroom where students are encouraged to ask questions, take risks, celebrate one another’s successes, and develop a lifelong love of learning. I’m looking forward to another wonderful year of growth, discovery, and unforgettable memories with our Grade 1 team!

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