Ms. Castaldi's Website!

Homework in our classroom typically looks like the following:

Mathematics: 1 double-sided worksheet following weekly lessons

Fundations: The phonics and fluency notebook is to be completed and handed in by Friday weekly

Reading: Read for 15-20 Minutes each night

Weekend: Reading is encouraged every day

Glen Rock Arboretum Field Trip:

• Our Spring visit to the Glen Rock Arboretum enables our first graders to experience a hands-on investigation to learn about the parts of a flower; take a nature walk through the Arboretum and discover how plants, insects and animals work together to survive through the Pollinator Partners program.

Veolia Water Treatment Company In-Class Visits:

• Through hands-on activities and engaging discussions, the Veolia Water Treatment team brings environmental science to life in our classroom. Students learn the importance of clean water, how it’s treated, and what they can do to help protect this vital resource.

First Grade Musical:

• The first-grade musical is a highlight of the year, where students shine on stage while showcasing their creativity and teamwork. With songs, choreography, and costumes, it’s an opportunity for every child to build confidence and share their talents with the school community.

March Mathness Family Visit:

• March Mathness is a fun and interactive event where students strengthen their number sense, problem-solving skills, and love of learning through exciting games and challenges. It’s a month-long celebration of math that gets everyone excited about numbers!

Fundations Chalk Writing Family Lesson:

• Fundations Chalk Writing adds a creative twist to phonics and handwriting practice. Using chalkboards and colorful chalk, students enhance their letter formation skills and phonemic awareness while having fun in a hands-on, multisensory learning experience.

Support Literacy and Math:

• Read together daily, practice sight words, and encourage discussion about the book by asking questions.  

• Use fun math games and everyday tasks like counting or measuring to build number sense. Math websites can be found on the Student Resources page.  

Encourage Independence and Routines

• Establish consistent routines for homework.

• Assign simple chores to build responsibility and confidence.  

• Have your child set up their own small, quiet study place. 

• Please have your child check their planner and folder for assignments and homework and put it back into their backpack when work is completed.

Foster Emotional Growth:  

• Discuss emotions, practice problem-solving, and celebrate effort over results. 

• Encourage creativity through play, arts, and crafts.  

• Help your child understand that the quality of their work matters just as much as their persistence and grit.

Stay Involved with School:

• Communicate with teachers, review homework, and attend school events.