John Mertes - Room 31

Middle School Mathematics

jmertes@sjbschool.org

Introduction

Whether you love math or not so much, I aim to prove that math is the greatest class of all. Developing a true appreciation is always the best way to overcome previous issues a student might have. Once a student wants to come to class, learning naturally follows. My main goal is to help all students love math as I do. I want you to be prepared for high school and eager to take four full years when that time arrives. To reach this goal, my class will follow these key principles.

Class expectations and homework

I want to make this class your favorite. This won't be because the class is easy, as we will work every day. Homework will be assigned daily. We will have the usual grading system, including quizzes and tests, but most importantly, homework will be daily and requires a genuine effort. Extra credit will always be available. If you work consistently and try your best, everything else will tend to fall into place.

That said, I expect respect from you, and once you enter my classroom, it will never be forgotten. While I want to foster a fun and stress-free environment, students must be polite to me, their peers, and everyone else. Thank you for your cooperation.

Being prepared for class

I need you in class with all materials, every day: your book, pencil or pen, paper, etc. I will provide supplies as needed, but I need you to be present. Being in class not only affects your grades but also promotes learning. It’s the only way to guarantee success.

Calculator Policy

I am old school about this — the best calculator is your mind. As the year progresses, you’ll see what I mean. Still, sometimes having a calculator helps speed things up. However, a simple basic calculator is all that's needed. Other teachers or schools might have different policies, but with me, please don’t buy anything expensive. Hopefully, something you already own will suffice. If it turns on, that’s enough!

Grading and Powerschool

Our grading will follow STJB standards, and I will use a total point system. If you perform poorly on any assignment, it can be offset. All tests will allow for corrections for extra credit if needed. Still, daily homework remains the main tool for success. Homework will be assigned points, but more importantly, it promotes understanding.

A unique aspect of my teaching is that I give many daily quizzes. A quick 10-point quiz before class ends on a topic covered that day. Sometimes, it’s just asking your name or a quick problem. Other times, it’s a short question or word. I use these to check understanding, boost morale, or reward presence in class. Missed quizzes can’t be made up. If a quiz is missed or poorly scored, we will drop the lowest grades or missed quizzes. The number of drops depends on the total quizzes, but stays around 20%.

I also believe teachers must keep their gradebook current. Surprising parents by suddenly changing grades is unprofessional because I am not entering grades quickly. While I can’t guarantee updates will be every day, my gradebook will be updated constantly.

Other Technologies -  Google Classroom/Teacher Page/I-Ready

Both will be set up and shared with students and parents. Yet, the best way to reach me is directly through email, face-to-face, or whatever method works best. I want you to feel comfortable and know I am always approachable. Once I-Ready is set up, this will be incorporated into homework and included in grading.

Times Tables

Mastering times tables is essential for all students to succeed, period. We’ll practice until mastered, even making it fun with music and engaging activities. This will be a daily routine.

Help!

I want to assist you. Ask me for help, and I’ll be there. I only need to know, and I want all students to take ownership of their learning and do what it takes to succeed. I will be your biggest supporter.

Final Thoughts

I hope my passion for math comes through. This is a partnership between the student and me. If we work together, success will follow. I will do whatever it takes for you to love math as I do!