1. BEHAVIOR
We have very high expectations for student behavior as that makes for the best learning environment. Behavior is a choice and therefore our behavior plan focuses on student responsibility. We accomplish this ninety-nine percent of the time using positive reinforcement, redirection, and encouragement. We may discuss possible consequences for inappropriate behavior during the first week (with our guidance, of course). This type of student buy-in contributes to a classroom environment that is positive, engaging, and the best for optimal learning. However, there are times when any typical child may make a choice that is not in line with the classroom norms. In the rare case that the above methods are ineffective, other consequences are warranted. This is usually in the form of a Behavior Reflection. This is usually a last resort. You should rarely if ever, see a Behavior Reflection. If there is a consistent problem, We will request a conference with you and your child so we can work together to ensure your child is successful at school.
2. ORGANIZATION and WEBSITE
With our new class environment, organization will play a huge role for the students this year. We have provided each student with a cubby full of supplies including a binder with color-coded folders (color-coded for each teacher) to help stay organized in the classroom. With no desk to "hide" papers in, the students will learn how to use the above-mentioned binder and folders to help keep all their papers organized. Our class website will be updated weekly with our activities. Please check our class website to see daily assignments and projects. It is a wonderful way to discuss what is being learned in school and to keep track of assignments.
3. HOMEWORK
The 3rd-grade team has decided to continue with a NO HOMEWORK! Now before you all scream and shout, let us explain our reasoning. Homework is often looked at with frustration for many reasons. One of the biggest complaints teachers receive is when the students go home and have a difficult time explaining what they have to do, or how they are supposed to do it. This is especially true with math and the new Common Core standards. On the flip side, we also get the concern that without homework, how are we sure the students are receiving the necessary review to master topics. Both of these issues can be solved with a no homework classroom. The only "homework" that will be sent home will be incomplete classwork. This placed in your child's red, Take Home Folder. Please ask your child each day if he/she has any incomplete work. We expect your child to complete and return missing assignments the following day of school.
With this said, there are two nightly skills that we do want the students practicing. One is nightly reading. A recommended 30 minutes a night has shown to have many positive impacts on a student's achievement levels. The other skill we want to expose the students to in 3rd grade is the concept of studying. This is a very new skill for students. This requires students to be reflective of their own knowledge of material covered in class and if they feel they need to review skills on their own to reinforce the topics. This will also be true when preparing for tests. Students will be provided with different tools and ideas on how to study, but each student will need to figure out what works best for them.
For those looking for ways to practice and review concepts at home, Harbor View has many programs that offer differentiated and personalized learning for students including: Freckle Math/Language Arts, Lexia Core5, and Spelling City.
Below is a great article if you would like to read more:
http://www.brilliant-insane.com/2014/02/5-reasons-homework-destroys-learning.html
4. ABSENCES
Attendance is a major indicator of success. On the rare occasion your child is ill, please call the school office. Please make your best effort to schedule medical or dental appointments for after school. When your child misses a day, he or she is responsible for seeing a classmate or me to ask about missed assignments. We, as teachers, are also not required to provide missed work when unexcused absences occur, or extended vacation. Our class website is also an excellent resource for staying updated on assignments when absent. Students are given as many days as he or she was absent to turn in the work.
5. WEEKLY PROGRESS CHECKS
All students have a red pocket folder, known as their Take Home Folder, for returned and graded assignments. This folder should come home once every week or daily if there is incomplete classwork. These assignments should be reviewed with your child, kept at home and an empty folder returned the next day. Also, there will be many assignments that will be completed online, as we do believe in trying to go more "paperless" and expose the students to the concept of blended learning.
6. CLASSROOM POLICIES
It is important that we all stay hydrated so please feel free to send a reusable water bottle with your child with his/her name on it. Also, make sure you send a healthy snack each school day with your child to eat during recess. We have found that these snacks help maintain a consistent energy level throughout the day and helps with focus and participation.
We all know that birthdays are important to every child and that kids like to celebrate with their classmates. However, sending in a food treat to the classroom to celebrate can exclude those children who have food allergies or other dietary restrictions. If you would like an alternative to food treats for your child’s birthday celebration at school, below are some suggestions.
We hope you find this information helpful. Please feel free to send us a message via Bloomz to discuss any concerns about the success and well being of your child at school.