A Message To Parents/ Guardians & Students: Let's keep in mind that A LOT has changed for all of us in the last few years, and we are doing our best to navigate these challenges. My goal is for all of my students to embrace the unknown and to be accountable for their learning. Eighth grade is a time of maturing and independence, and I look forward to being part of the educational journey of each of my students. Now more than ever it is important to have open lines of communication, so please do not hesitate to email me with any questions or concerns that may come up throughout the year.
Be Responsible
Your learning journey starts with you! Take ownership of your learning by asking questions when you have them, giving your full attention in class and on assignments, and engaging in group discussions and projects. Each and every student will have a voice in our class, so don’t be afraid to use it!
You are a big 8th grader now! Be accountable for checking your email/ Google Classroom/ my website EVERYDAY for assignments and updates. Work should be completed on time, and missed assignments should be followed up on.
It is so important to me to create an open and engaging classroom environment. Email me anytime, feel free to set up 1-on-1 meetings with me, and LET ME KNOW IN ADVANCE if there is a reason why you can't complete an assignment on time. No communication = no credit :(.
Be Respectful
The main rule in my classroom is to be kind and respectful to all. There will be group work and communication with peers, and there will be a zero tolerance policy for any unkind or disrespectful behavior.
Be Safe
Now more than ever it is important to be aware of your digital footprint. Think before you post, give proper credit when using other people’s work, and do not copy assignments from online resources or peers in class. Use your own ideas - you are brilliant!
Help your child establish & stick to a routine: This will help students stay focused and ready to learn.
Going to bed and waking up at the same time during the week can be helpful.
This should also include establishing a workspace at home. The space should be free of distractions (phones, TV, etc...).
Lastly, they should plan out their days. Use your school organizer or Google calendar to organize assignments and due dates. Eighth grade is and important grade to prepare for the challenges of high school, so it is important to meet with teachers to understand new material and make connections with classmates.
Encourage your child to communicate with their teachers and peers.
They should check their email, Google Classroom, and teacher websites every morning. This is where agendas/ assignments will be posted for most classes, including this one! Students should reach out to teachers with any questions they have about the day ahead.
If there are ever issues that come up where your child cannot complete an assignment or has to miss a class, please have them contact me in-person or via email.
Limit Screen Time: Too much screen time can cause eye strain, headaches, and difficulty falling asleep.
Try to limit Chromebook use to school hours.
Encourage brain breaks to stretch, go outside if needed, and step away from the screen!
Read with your child
You can read the same book as a family, listen to an audio book and discuss it together, or read your own book in the same room! It is extremely valuable for students to see adults around them read for fun.
E-mail me with questions and feedback. I am here to support you as well as your student :)