Newsletters

Week 26: 3/2-3/6

Hello, families!

I look forward to meeting with you and your child next week to discuss progress and growth. Please remember, next week's conferences are student-led so students need to be present. Read on to see what we explored this week.

ELA (Reading and Writing): This week, students worked on their research for their difference maker and typed their scripts. I will be sending a copy of their script home in their blue folder. If your child is missing their script, email me and I could give you an update. I would greatly appreciate it if you could take some time each day to help them memorize their script so they are prepared for the day of the Living Wax Museum.

Math: This week, students learned about centimeters and meters, how to problem solve with measurement, how to select and use metric tools, how to measure on a number line, and how to make a line plot. Next week, we will wrap up our measurement unit. See below for additional resources.

Thematic Unit: We are so excited to have you at our Living Wax Museum on March 18. Please check your child's blue folder to see the flyer. On the flyer, it states 9am start time, however I will be opening our "exhibits" at 8:45 because at 9 other classes will be visiting.

Social-emotional learning: Our class is discussing how everyone has unique preferences, and we are learning way to compromise and change our behavior when necessary so that we can respect and get along with others around us.

Optional Resources:

  • Math-
  • English Language Arts-
    • Reading: Use this graphic organizer to gather facts and details about an activist’s biography on Ducksters.
    • Writing: Practice writing a biography using the graphic organizer you used for Reading. Make sure to include headings for each section you are organizing in your writing (there should be 4 total), as well as an introduction and conclusion.
  • Thematic Unit-
    • Practice your Difference Maker speech! Share with a friend, family member, or neighbor (with permission/supervision) the information you’ve learned about your hero. Be sure to report on your individual using the speech guideline/format from class (introduction, life facts, contributions/accomplishments, obstacles they’ve faced, and how they represent WCS Core Values).

Upcoming Dates:

    • March 6-End of Trimester 2
    • March 11- K-2 Whole school morning meeting at 8:45
    • March 9-13- Conference week: early dismissal all week (1:30pm)
    • March 18- Living Wax Museum at 9am (8:45 for parents)
    • March 23 - April 3- Spring NWEA Testing window

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • School Supplies and Field Lesson Donations: Great News Explorer families! Westlake Charter has already reached 83% of our School Supplies goal and 63% of our field lessons goal! Note: When you make a monthly donation, our grade level campaigns are credited for the entire year in advance on our goal thermometer! Keep up the great work, Explorer families! Click HERE to make your donation today!
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: Parent Survey, Middle School Spring Athletics Sign-ups, Enrichment Sign Ups, The FREE Natomas 5K, and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please reach out.

Have a great weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 25: 2/24-2/28

Hello, families!

Happy almost March! I am loving this weather and ready for spring. Read on to see what we explored this week.

ELA (Reading and Writing): This week, students were assessed on informational reading and writing. I also conducted 1:1 assessments for reading, sight words, and phonics skills. All of these will be shared with you during conferences.

Math: We started our next chapter on measurement. Students learned about feet, inches, and yards. They should know that there are 12 inches in a foot and three feet in a yard. Students also learned how to compare lengths. Next week, we will continue with measurement.

Thematic Unit: This week, students continued researching their difference maker in class and have started working on their scripts/speech for the Living Wax Museum on March 18. Please be thinking about your child's costume. On the day of the Living Wax Museum, your child will be dressed as the difference maker he/she chose. Email me if you have any questions.

Optional Resources:

  • Math-
  • English Language Arts-
    • Reading: After reading at home, choose three of these sentence starters and either tell someone at your house or write your responses on a piece of paper or in a journal.
    • Writing: Read or listen to a new difference maker on Ducksters.com. Write an informational paragraph that introduces who they are, a fact about their early life, describe how they made a difference, and end it on an interesting note. Don’t forget about transition words!
  • Thematic Unit-
    • Work on this Biography BINGO at home by either reading about a difference maker on Ducksters.com or from a book/newspaper/magazine at home.

Upcoming Dates:

    • March 5- WAVE Board Meeting 6:30pm
    • March 6-End of Trimester 2
    • March 11- K-2 Whole school morning meeting at 8:45
    • March 9-13- Conference week: early dismissal all week (1:30pm)
    • March 18- Living Wax Museum at 9am
    • March 23 - April 3- Spring NWEA Testing window

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • The Canyon Creek website is open for conference sign ups. Please use the information below to schedule your conference. Conference Sign Up: Trimester 2 parent teacher conferences will be held between March 9th- 13th. Click HERE to sign up for a conference. Click HERE for the parent directions. The password is: explorers. Trimester 2 conferences will be student led, so please make sure your child attends with you.
  • School Supplies and Field Lesson Donations: Great News Explorer families! Westlake Charter has already reached 81% of our School Supplies goal and 61% of our field lessons goal! Note: When you make a monthly donation, our grade level campaigns are credited for the entire year in advance on our goal thermometer! Keep up the great work, Explorer families! Click HERE to make your donation today!
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: The FREE Natomas 5K, Conferences, Whole School Morning Meeting and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please reach out.

Have a great weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 24: 2/10-2/14

Hello, families!

Here are this week's updates.

ELA (Reading and Writing): We reviewed non-fiction text features: caption, heading, and bold text. When we return from break, students will be assessed on the following: informational reading, writing, and sight words. I will also be conducting 1:1 assessments on the Monday after the break.

Math: We continued learning about time. The following lessons were taught: problem-solving: find a pattern, time to the quarter hour, time to five minute intervals, and AM and PM. See below for additional resources. When we come back from break, we will begin our next chapter, measurement.

Thematic Unit: This week, students began researching their difference maker in class. We will be completing this research in class. My goal is that all students complete their research by the end of February so that way they could begin to memorize their speech for the Living Wax Museum on March 18. Please be thinking about your child's costume. On the day of the Living Wax Museum, your child will be dressed as the difference maker he/she chose. You can click the link from last week's newsletter to see who your child has chosen.

Optional Resources:

  • Math-
  • English Language Arts-
    • Reading: Go to your local public library and check out books on your difference maker. Check out kid friendly sites to get information about your difference maker.
  • Thematic Unit-
    • Now that you have your resources, jot some notes about your difference maker. When and where were they born? What was their childhood like? What were some of their contributions and accomplishments? What core value did they demonstrate the most and why? Remember to bring these notes to class if you do complete some research.

Upcoming Dates:

    • February 17-21- Presidents' week: No School
    • February 28- Spirit Day: Reverse Day
    • March 5- WAVE Board Meeting 6:30pm
    • March 6-End of Trimester 2
    • March 9-13- Conference week: early dismissal all week (1:30pm)

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • The Canyon Creek website is open for conference sign ups. Please use the information below to schedule your conference. Conference Sign Up: Trimester 2 parent teacher conferences will be held between March 9th- 13th. Click HERE to sign up for a conference. Click HERE for the parent directions. The password is: explorers. Trimester 2 conferences will be student led, so please make sure your child attends with you.
  • School Supplies and Field Lesson Donations: Great News Explorer families! Westlake Charter has already reached 80% of our School Supplies goal and 59% of our field lessons goal! Note: When you make a monthly donation, our grade level campaigns are credited for the entire year in advance on our goal thermometer! Keep up the great work, Explorer families! Click HERE to make your donation today!
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: The FREE Natomas 5K, Hearing & Vision s Screening, Conferences, and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please reach out.

Have a wonderful week with your families! See you on the 24th.

Mrs. Simental

Week 23: 2/3-2/7

Hello, families!

Here are this week's updates.

ELA (Reading and Writing): This week, some students presented their writing to the class. In preparation for our research, students began exploring difference makers to narrow their choice down to one. Here is a master document to see who your child has chosen to represent for the Living Wax Museum. They will dress like that individual and memorize a speech to perform on March 18, so save the date! Next week, students will begin researching their difference maker in class. If you notice that your child has a blank next to their name on the master doc, it is because they have not chosen a difference maker. Please take some time this weekend to help them choose and email me so that I can update and help them with their research.

Math: Students were assessed on three digit addition and subtraction on Monday. We started our next chapter, time. The following lessons were taught: time to the hour and time to the half hour. See below for additional resources.

Thematic Unit: We learned about difference makers including Amelia Earhart, Harriet Tubman, and Sally Ride. We saw the wonderful Ride Sally Ride at the B Street Theatre. What did your explorer learn?

Social-Emotional Learning: Our class is discussing what it means to be fair and to cooperate when playing or working with others.

    • Ask your child what is important when working together (e.g., include everyone; listen and cooperate; use kind words).
    • Talk with your child about the ways your family cooperates with one another (e.g., making dinner; washing the car; putting together a puzzle, etc.) and discuss how much fun it can be to work together and that everyone helps to get the job completed.

Optional Resources:

  • Math-
  • English Language Arts-
    • Writing: Write about our field trip to B Street Theater. What did you learn about Sally Ride and Amelia Earhart? What was your favorite part?
    • Reading: Go to your local public library and check out books on your difference maker. Check out kid friendly sites to get information about your difference maker.
  • Thematic Unit-
    • Now that you have your resources, jot some notes about your difference maker. When and where were they born? What was their childhood like? What were some of their contributions and accomplishments? What core value did they demonstrate the most and why? Remember to bring these notes to class if you do complete some research.

Upcoming Dates:

    • February 12-Parents Go To School Night 5:45 pm
    • February 13- WCS Board Meeting 6:30pm
    • February 17-21- Presidents' week: No School

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • Shhhh! It's a secret. Last week, your child received a white envelope inside their blue folder. Inside, you will find instructions about this secret parent project that is due Feb. 12.
  • GATE: All 2nd grade students have the option of participating in the qualifying Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) assessment. A permission slip was sent home with your child last Friday. Please sign and return no later than February 14th, 2020. Click Here more information about our GATE program at WCS.
  • Next Friday is Valentine's Day. If your child would like to hand out cards/treats, I do ask that you do not address the Valentines to any specific student. Instead, just sign them from your child. We have 22 students in our class (11 girls and 11 boys). Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you!
  • School Supplies and Field Lesson Donations: Great News Explorer families! Westlake Charter has already reached 76% of our School Supplies goal and 56% of our field lessons goal! Note: When you make a monthly donation, our grade level campaigns are credited for the entire year in advance on our goal thermometer! Keep up the great work, Explorer families! Click HERE to make your donation today!
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: Parents Go To School Night, The FREE Natomas 5K, Hearing & Vision s Screening, Conferences, and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please reach out.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 22: 1/27-1/31

Hello, families!

Here are this week's updates.

ELA (Reading and Writing): In writing, students continued their how-to writing in google slides. They learned about transition words and how to add details to their steps. Next week, students will present their writing in class to their peers.

Math: This week, we continued three digit subtraction. Students will be assessed Monday on three digit addition and subtraction. Our next chapter will be on time.

Thematic Unit: We learned about difference makers including Rosa Parks, Cesar Chavez, Dolores Huerta, and Ruby Bridges.

Social-Emotional Learning: Our class is discussing how it's okay for people to have different ideas regarding how to solve a problem. We are learning that it is fair to listen to everyone's ideas and work together to choose a solution that makes everyone feel okay. In class, students were taught when you have a problem or disagreement, you can:

    • STOP and calm down.
    • TALK about each person's perspective so you understand the problem.
    • THINK of possible solutions.
    • TRY a solution and see how it works for everyone.
  • At home, you can talk with your child about the last two steps (Think, Try). Ask your child what it means to compromise.

Optional Resources:

  • Math-
  • English Language Arts-
    • Writing: Write about a time when someone was kind to you. Make sure to include an attention-getting beginning, transitional words, details and elaborations, and a great wrap it up ending.
    • Reading: Explore biographies for kids (hard copies and/or online sites) with your parent and start thinking about who you might want to research for our Living Museum project. Write down a list of possibilities and what you like about each one.
  • Thematic Unit-
    • Parents are heroes/difference makers, too! Interview a parent and write down the facts you learned. Ask them when and where they were born, 3 childhood facts and 3 middle of life facts. You could also ask them what type of obstacles they have had to overcome or what accomplishments they are proud of!

Upcoming Dates:

    • February 1-WAVE My Princess and Me Dance
    • February 5- B Street Theater Field Trip
    • February 12-Parents Go To School Night 6pm
    • February 13- WCS Board Meeting 6:30pm
    • February 17-21- Presidents' week: No School

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • Next Wednesday is our final field trip of the year. Students can wear fancy attire or their uniforms. We will be watching a play about Sally Ride and Amelia Earhart at the B Street Theatre. Chaperones, please remember to bring your $13 admission fee (exact change, please). Our lead chaperone will be collecting all fees. Also, remember to bring a backpack or tote to carry your group's snacks. We should return to campus in time for lunch. If you would like to donate snacks for our field trip, please click here. It is greatly appreciated!
  • Shhhh! It's a secret. Check your child's blue folder for a white envelope. Inside, you will find instructions about this secret parent project that is due Feb. 12.
  • GATE: All 2nd grade students have the option of participating in the qualifying Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) assessment. A permission slip has been sent home with your child. Please sign and return no later than February 14th, 2020. Click Here more information about our GATE program at WCS.
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: Winter AS Live Winter Clubs, Geography Bee, Parents Go To School Night and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please reach out.

Happy Super Bowl weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 21: 1/21-1/24

Hello, families!

ELA (Reading and Writing): In writing, students published their informational booklets. As a class, we did a gallery walk and left each other feedback. Towards the latter part of the week, we started how to writing using google slides. Ask your child what he/she decided to write a how to on. In reading, we are continuing our focus on nonfiction text and text features.

Math: This week, we continued three digit subtraction. I taught a fourth strategy: break apart. Please see the picture after this week's newsletter to see the strategy in action. Next week, we will continue to review subtraction.

Thematic Unit: We continued to learn more about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. After completing a mind map graphic organizer, we started our process grid which will include important information about those individuals we have studied. We also learned about Rosa Parks and the work she did to make our world a better place. Ask your explorer what he/she learned about these two influential individuals.

Social-Emotional Learning: Our class is discussing that it's okay for people to have different feelings or ideas about the same thing or the same situation and that we can disagree with one another respectfully. We are learning that it is important to talk to one another so that we know how everyone feels and and thinks and can understand the problem. In class, students were taught when you have a problem or disagreement, you can:

    • STOP and calm down.
    • TALK about each person's perspective so you understand the problem.
    • THINK of possible solutions.
    • TRY a solution and see how it works for everyone.
  • At home, you can encourage your child to use calming strategies (e.g., taking deep breaths, counting slowly, thinking of something beautiful, hugging a stuffed animal) when they are upset or overexcited.

Optional Resources:

  • Math-
  • English Language Arts-
    • Writing: (Informational Writing): Select a topic you’d like to learn more about (animals, games, sports, etc.) and use books or the internet to research facts about your topic. Make sure you take notes while researching! Next, write an informational book about your topic - be sure to include facts and elaborations within your book!
  • Thematic Unit-
    • Sit down with an adult or sibling at home, and tell them what you think a hero is. Be sure to include examples of heroes you’ve begun talking about in class and why those people are considered heroes or difference makers.

Upcoming Dates:

    • January 27-31: Great Kindness Challenge
    • January 28: ELPAC Parent Info Night 6pm
    • January 31: Spirit Day-Rainbow Day

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: The Great Kindness Challenge, Clubs sign ups, GATE Testing, Geography Bee and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please reach out.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 20: 1/13-1/17

Hello, families!

We are at the midway point of second trimester which means progress reports are on their way. Check your child's blue folder. Please sign and return the top page.

ELA (Reading and Writing): Students took the Language NWEA on Wednesday. In writing, students are working on publishing their booklets. Next week, we will look further into how-to writing.

Math: This week, we continued three digit subtraction. The following lessons were taught: subtract three digit numbers, rewrite three-digit subtraction, problem solving, and subtract across zeroes. I also taught students another strategy: using expanded form to subtract. Next week, we will continue our work with subtraction.

Thematic Unit: We began our next thematic unit, People Who Make a Difference Unit. We read about George Washington, Martin Luther King Jr., and Mae Jemison. We took a deeper view into the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through a video, article, and pictorial input chart. During this unit, students will choose a difference maker to research. Then, students will complete the writing cycle to publish their script, memorize, and recite on the day of our Living Wax Museum scheduled for the morning of March 18.

Social-Emotional Learning: Our class is learning that it is important to speak assertively to share our ideas and feelings or ask for help, and we are practicing how to Speak Up and Speak Kindly. Encourage your child to feel comfortable speaking up by purposefully asking for his/her ideas and opinions. Tell your child when you notice him/her using a strong, respectful voice and kind words when speaking up.

Optional Resources:

  • Math-
  • English Language Arts-
    • Writing: (Informational Writing): Try your skills with using facts and details by writing a how-to. Think of something you do everyday (e.g. brushing your teeth, your route to school, doing chores) and write a step-by-step instructional guide on how to do that. For an extension, turn your how-to into a Google Slides presentation!
  • Thematic Unit-
    • Identify someone in your life that is a hero. Show them gratitude by acknowledging what you’ve observed they do that has been kind, inspiring, and/or helpful to you. This should be someone who has made a difference in your life for the better!

Upcoming Dates:

    • January 17: Progress Reports go home (please sign and return cover)
    • January 20: Martin Luther King Jr. Day-No School
    • January 24: WAVE Coffee Talk 8:30am
    • January 28: ELPAC Parent Info Night 6pm
    • January 31: Spirit Day-Rainbow Day

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • Our final field trip is coming soon! As noted, each class can only take 5 fingerprinted chaperones who would pay $13.00 on field trip day for their tickets. Please email me if you would like to be a chaperone. For this special field trip, we are asking students to wear theatre attire (dressy, but comfortable). Check your child's blue folder for more information and permission slip.
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: Middle school athletics, GATE Testing, Science Fair, Parents Go to School Night and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please reach out.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 19: 1/6-1/10

Hello, families!

This week, we spent a lot of time reviewing routines, procedures, and concepts.

ELA (Reading and Writing): Students took the Reading NWEA and will take the Language NWEA next Wednesday. In writing, lessons included: preparing our booklets for publication and how to fancy them up.

Math: This week, we started three digit subtraction. The following lessons were taught: subtract hundreds, mentally subtract 10s and 100s, regrouping tens, and hundreds. See below for optional resources to practice.

Thematic Unit: Next week, we will begin one of my favorite units, our People Who Make a Difference Unit. We will study those who have made our world a better place.

Social-Emotional Learning: Our class learned about conversations and practiced ways to contribute to a conversation, including listening thoughtfully and making relevant comments and questions.

Optional Resources:

Upcoming Dates:

    • January 15: Language NWEA
    • January 20: Martin Luther King Jr. Day-No School
    • January 24: WAVE Coffee Talk 8:30am
    • January 28: ELPAC Parent Info Night 6pm

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: Talent Show Sign ups, After School clubs, Middle school athletics, Science Fair and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 18: 12/16-12/20

Hello, families!

This month's core value is gratitude and I am so grateful for all of you. You are raising such wonderful, respectful, funny, sweet, and creative children. I am deeply thankful to be a partner in your child's education.

We have had a very busy week filled with lots of activities including Holidays Around the World, science experiments, and much more. Read on to see what we explored this week.

ELA (Reading and Writing): In reading, we are continuing to study nonfiction text. Over break, take a trip to the public library and have your explorer check out some informational texts. In writing, lessons included: clearing up confusion for your reader and editing our writing. We will continue our informational writing after the break.

Math: This week, we reviewed two-digit subtraction. We will continue to review this when we come back from break before we begin three-digit subtraction.

Thematic Unit: We wrapped up our unit of study: Earth's Systems. Our class conducted an experiment to learn how to prevent a landslide. Students also completed another erosion experiment using foil and sandpaper. Ask your explorer about it.

Social-Emotional Learning: Our class discussed careful listening (listen-think-respond) and how good communication skills help them show respect, learn information, prevent misunderstandings, and resolve conflicts.

Optional Resources:

    • I have sent home an OPTIONAL homework packet in your child's blue folder if you would like to review some skills over the break.
  • Upcoming Dates:
    • December 20 - January 5: Winter Break
    • January 7: Reading NWEA
    • January 7: Spelling Bee 6pm
    • January 8: WAVE Board Meeting 6:30
    • January 9: Math NWEA
    • January 9: WCS Board Meeting 6:30
    • January 15: Language NWEA

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: 2020-21 Academic Calendar, Spelling Bee, ATS and Talent Show Sign ups, and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Wishing you all a joyful two weeks with your loved ones!

Mrs. Simental


Week 17: 12/9-12/13

Hello, families!

Read on to see what we explored this week.

ELA (Reading and Writing): In reading, we explored nonfiction texts and studied non fiction text features. Students completed activities to strengthen their understanding of NF text features. During guided reading, I have been reading non-fiction texts with some groups. In writing, lessons included: what writers can edit for, thinking about your audience, helping readers picture information, and how to hook your reader.

Math: This week, we continued our chapter on two-digit subtraction. Lessons included: subtract two-digit numbers, rewrite two-digit subtraction, check subtraction with addition, and solving word problems. Please see optional resources below for more practice.

Thematic Unit: We continued our unit of study: Earth's Systems. Students learned about weathering and erosion. Our class completed an experiment to learn more about erosion and how water can cause canyons. Ask your child about it. Next week, we will continue to explore weathering and erosion.

Optional Resources:

  • Math-
  • English Language Arts-
    • Writing: (Informational Writing): What are you an expert at? Write a booklet teaching others about that topic.
    • Reading: Find a non-fiction text and identify its title/headings, bold-faced words, photographs, and captions. (Nonfiction text features) Read it and write down 5 facts you learned.
  • Thematic Unit-
    • Video 1-Landforms intro
    • Weathering YouTube -Weathering and erosion
    • Write down a list of some landforms that you have visited or observed.
  • Upcoming Dates:
    • December 13: WAVE Movie Night at 6pm
    • December 18: Holidays Around the World
    • December 19: Spirit Day- Pajama Day
    • December 20 - January 5: Winter Break
    • January 7: Reading NWEA
    • January 9: Math NWEA
    • January 15: Language NWEA

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • On the last day before break, I would like to serve hot cocoa and some snacks while we watch a film. If you would like to donate, click here.
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, December 15th Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: Pajama Day, Santa in Natomas, Winter break and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a fabulous weekend,

Mrs. Simental

Week 16: 12/2-12/6

Hello, families!

Happy December! Read on to see what we explored this week.

ELA (Reading and Writing): In reading, we explored nonfiction texts and brainstormed what we noticed and observed. In writing, students brainstormed a list of topics that they were experts on and they began writing informational books. Authors in our class have written books about plants, video games, being a big sister, and many more. Ask your explorer what he/she has written about.

Math: This week, we started our chapter on two-digit subtraction. Lessons included: two digit fact families, take apart tens to subtract, regroup a ten as ones, and subtract from a two digit number. Please see optional resources below for more practice.

Thematic Unit: We began our new unit of study: Earth's Systems. Students learned what geology and geologist means. Our class completed an experiment to learn more about erosion. Ask your child about it.

Optional Resources:

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • Are you crafty with a glue gun? Need more volunteer hours? I need help preparing materials for our Holidays Around the World project. If this interests you, please send me an email and I will connect with you once I receive the materials. Thank you so much!
  • Want a free child's ticket to Six Flags? Check your child's blue folder for more information.
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, December 8th Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: Lottery Application details, Kylee Lillich Giving Tree, Call for coaches and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Mrs. Simental

Week 15: 11/18-11/22

Hello, families!

I have enjoyed meeting with you all to discuss your child's progress. Read on to see what we have explored this week.

ELA (Reading and Writing): We compared and contrasted Frozen, the musical to the movie. Students also took a spelling inventory. We will resume spelling after the break. In writing, we will switch gears when we come back and begin a new unit of study, informational writing where students will explore topics they are "experts" in.

Math: This week, we reviewed adding up to 4 two-digit numbers and three digit addition. Students were assessed on adding up to 4 numbers. I taught the students another strategy for three digit addition: using a number line. After the break, we will review addition before moving on to begin 2 digit subtraction.

Thematic Unit: We began our new unit of study: Earth's Systems. Students learned what geology and geologist means.

Optional Resources:

  • Math-
    • Lesson 6: Reteach and Enrichment
    • Grab a pocketful of change and have your explorer count to find the total.
  • Upcoming Dates:
    • November 25-29: Thanksgiving Week-No School
    • December 5: WAVE Board Meeting 6:30
    • December 10: Standards Based Grading Parent Information Night 6pm
    • December 12: WCS Board Meeting 6:30

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, November 24th Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: Joey’s Food Locker Canned Food Drive, Call for coaches , Explorer Athletics and Enrichment sign ups and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Wishing you all a safe and wonderful week surrounded by your loved ones!

Mrs. Simental

Week 14: 11/12-11/15

Hello, families!

I hope you are all doing well and staying healthy. Read on to see what we explored this week in D106.

ELA (Reading and Writing): We explored how characters can change from the beginning of the story to the end. We read the following texts: My Rotten Redheaded Older Brother by Patricia Polacco, A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon, and Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes. In writing, we have been exploring prompt writing where they choose from three options to write about. I plan to show Frozen the movie next week in class so that the students can compare and contrast the movie and musical. It is rated PG, so if you would NOT like your child to watch it, please email me by next Monday.

Math: This week, we tackled two concepts: counting money and three digit addition. Students learned to count pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters. In regards to addition, I taught the children one strategy- breaking apart the addends to add (expanded form). Next week, I will be teaching the students other strategies.

Thematic Unit: Next week, we will begin our new unit of study: Earth's Systems. Students will learn what geology and geologist means.

Optional Resources:

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • Our next field trip to see Frozen, the Musical is coming up next Thursday. Parents joining us, please remember to bring your $7.00 admission fee and please have exact change. There will be a lead chaperone collecting everyone's fee. Chaperones, please bring a backpack or tote to carry your group's snacks. We will be eating a couple of snacks at the theater. Lunch will be eaten when we return to campus. Thank you families for your snack donations.
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, November 17th Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: Joey’s Food Locker Canned Food Drive, Middle School Dance, Call for coaches, Explorer Athletics and Enrichment sign ups and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

I look forward to meeting with you next week!

Mrs. Simental

Week 13: 11/4-11/8

Hello, families!

What a busy week filled with assessments! Read on to see what we explored this week in D106.

ELA (Reading and Writing): In writing this week, students were assessed on their narrative writing. I will be sharing those with you during conferences. I also conducted reading assessments and those will be reported in their report cards. Please continue to have your explorer read at least 20 minutes daily.

Math: This week, we continued chapter 3: 2- digit addition. I taught the students the algorithm (old school way) and we learned how to add 3-4 two digit numbers. See below for optional resources.

Thematic Unit: This week, students were assessed on what plants need to grow , how insects and animals help plants grow, and how seeds travel. We also did our "exploding seed pod" experiment which imitated how some seeds travel through explosion. Ask your explorer to tell you about this and the different ways that seeds travel.

Optional Resources:

  • Math-
  • Thematic Unit
    • Tell your parents about the exploding seed pod lab. What did you observe and learn?
  • Upcoming Dates:
    • November 11: Veterans' Day-No School
    • November 15: Spirit Day-Decades Day (dress up in your favorite decades apparel)
    • November 18-22: Conference Week-Early Dismissal (1:30) all week
    • November 25-29: Thanksgiving Week-No School

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • Our next field trip to see Frozen, the Musical is coming up. Bus-riding chaperones are: Camden's dad, Kate's mom, Lucas' mom, Skye's mom, and Annabella's dad. Meeting us there is Kylee's grandma and Amia's dad. We will be eating a couple of snacks and I am looking for donations. Please click here if you would like to donate snacks for our field trip.
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, November 10th Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: Spirit Day – Decades Day, Conference week, Middle school Dance, Thanksgiving Break, Enrichment sign ups and and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful three-day weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 12: 10/28-11/1

Hello, families!

Happy November! Read on to see what we explored this week in D106.

ELA (Reading and Writing): In writing this week, students published their narratives. Next week, students will be assessed on their narrative writing. Next Thursday, I will have a guest teacher so that I could conduct 1:1 reading assessments in preparation for report cards.

Math: This week, we continued chapter 3: 2- digit addition. I taught the students two more strategies to add: using/drawing base ten blocks and decomposing. Next week, we will review all strategies and learn how to add 3-4 two-digit numbers.

Thematic Unit: This week, students reviewed The Journey of a Strawberry and described the journey in writing. The class also completed some experiments to deepen their knowledge of plants and pollination. The first experiment was to see if a seed could grow with just sunlight and water. We placed two lima beans wrapped in a damp towel and taped to the window. Students will be making observations throughout this week and next. The other experiment taught us how animals and insects act as pollinators to help plants grow. Ask your explorer what he/she learned.

Optional Resources:

  • Math-
  • Thematic Unit
    • Tell your parents about the pollination lab. What did you observe and learn?
  • Upcoming Dates:
    • November 7: WAVE Board Meeting
    • November 11: Veterans' Day-No School
    • November 18-22: Conference Week-Early Dismissal (1:30) all week
    • November 25-29: Thanksgiving Week-No School

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • The conference portal is now live. Click here to schedule your child's conference. Password is explorers.
  • Our next field trip is coming up. Please see your child's blue folder for the permission slip.
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, November 3rd Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: Advisory Fishbowl Parent Sign Up, Whole School Morning Meeting, Missoula Theater Company Auditions and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 11: 10/21-10/25

Hello, families!

Read on to see what we explored this week in D106.

ELA (Reading and Writing): In writing this week, we focused on revising and editing to make our writing better. I shared the rubric that I will use to grade their writing at the end of the trimester so that students understand the expectations. In reading, I'm continuing guided reading groups. For some students, I am sending home their stories to practice reading at home. Please check with your child if he/she has stories to practice.

Math: This week, we started chapter 3: 2- digit addition. I taught the students two strategies to add: using an open number line and finding a "friendly ten" to add. Please see optional resources below to practice. Next week, we will continue to learn new strategies to add 2 numbers.

Thematic Unit: This week, we continued our thematic unit, Farm to Fork. Students listened to the story "The Hungry Farmer" and learned two new signal words, harvest and natural resource. Ask your explorer to show you the gesture and tell you the definition for these signal words. Next week, we will complete 2 science labs! I can't wait!

Optional Resources:

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, October 27th Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: Advisory Fishbowl Parent Sign Up, Whole School Morning Meeting, Missoula Theater Company Auditions and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 10: 10/14-10/18

Hello, families!

Read on to see what we explored this week in D106.

ELA (Reading and Writing): In writing, we returned to our narrative writing unit with a focus on small moments. In reading, I have begun guided reading groups. For some students, I am sending home their stories to practice reading at home. Please check with your child if he/she has stories to practice.

Math: This week, we focused on word problems. I taught them the vocabulary: start, change, and result to help them solve problems. We also reviewed part-part whole problems, which they learned in first grade. Next week, we will be starting our two digit addition chapter.

Thematic Unit: This week, we continued our thematic unit, Farm to Fork. Students learned about the journey of a strawberry from the field to our homes. We also learned a chant: Goods and Services Bugaloo and a song: Growing Food.

Optional Resources:

  • Math-
  • English Language Arts
    • Good readers visualize what they read. They are able to “see the story” in their heads as they read as if they are watching a movie. Quick-draws are a great way to capture what a reader is seeing in their head as they are reading. Not too much detail, just a quick illustrative note! Read a section of a narrative (fiction or non-fiction) and illustrate the pictures that come to mind.
    • Write a small moment narrative about an event you experienced this week.
  • Thematic Unit
    • Tell your parents about the Farm to Fork Journey of a Strawberry.
  • Upcoming Dates:
    • October 23- High School Info Night 6-8
    • October 25: WAVE Coffee Talk at 8:30
    • October 25: Spirit Day-Role Model Day
    • November 7: WAVE Board Meeting
    • November 11: Veterans' Day-No School
    • November 18-22: Conference Week-Early Dismissal (1:30) all week

WCS News/Reminders/Announcements:

  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, October 20th Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as: Westlake Charter High School Update, Advisory Fishbowl Parent Sign Up, Missoula Theater Company Auditions, and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 6: 9/30-10/4

Hello, families!

Read on to see what we explored this week in D106.

ELA (Reading and Writing): This week, we read Cinderella and the Rough-Faced Girl. Students then compared and contrasted both versions of the story. In writing, students published their fairytales. When we come back from break, we will be returning to our narrative writing unit with a focus on small moments.

Math: This week, students took the Trimester 1 Math Benchmark. After the break, we will focus on word problems before jumping into our chapter on 2-digit addition.

Thematic Unit: This week, we began our new thematic unit, Farm to Fork. Students learned about parts of a plant and the plant life cycle. Our class also learned a new chant, Producers Here, Producers There. After the break, students will learn about the journey of a strawberry. Our trip to Cal Expo was fantastic! Ask your child what he/she learned.

Optional Resources:

  • Math- Chapter 5 Place Value
  • Compare Numbers Game
  • English Language Arts
  • Thematic Unit
    • Field Trip Reflection - Write about your favorite part from our Farm and Forest tour field trip on Thursday. What were three new things you learned? What is something you still have questions about?
  • Upcoming Dates:
  • October 7-11: Fall Break
  • October 4: Progress reports go home
  • October 16: Chili Cook-off
  • October 17: Picture Retake Day
  • October 17: WCS Board Meeting at 6:30
  • October 25: WAVE Coffee Talk at 8:30

WCS News/Reminders:

  • Families and Students: Westlake Charter School’s 7th Annual Chili Cook Off is just two weeks away!!! Mark your calendars for October 16th at 6pm. This fantastic event will take place right here on campus. We need your help to make this event the best it can be! Parent volunteer hours are available for your time spent helping us with this event! Please sign up for your 6th-8th grade advisory here. Please sign up your K-5th drinks and desserts here.
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, October 6th & 13th Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as the Bully Prevention Month, Walktober, Chili Cook Off, and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful week!

Mrs. Simental

Week 6: 9/23-9/27

Hello, families!

Thank you for your donations to our Fall Festival basket. It is greatly appreciated! Read on to see what we explored this week in D106.

ELA (Reading and Writing): This week, we read two versions of Little Red Riding Hood and compared and contrasted the two. Next week, we will revisit different versions of Cinderella. In writing, we discussed the elements of fairytales and students then used this to begin creating their own fairytales. Ask your child what his/her fairytale is about. Next week, students will be publishing their fairytale.

Math: This week, we continued chapter 5 : Place Value to 1,000. This week's lessons included read and write numbers to 1,000, count by 5s, 10s, and 100s, and compare numbers. Feel free to use additional resources below to practice. Looking forward to next week, we will review for our Math Benchmark.

Thematic Unit: This week, we learned about timelines. Students learned a song about timelines and spent the week creating their own timelines. Next week, we will begin our new thematic unit, Farm to Fork. Our field trip will help kick this unit off. At this point, all chaperones have been notified. If you have not been selected, but would like to join us, you may follow us or meet us there. Chaperones, please bring a backpack or large reusable tote to carry your group's lunches and be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Also, plan to meet at morning lineup.

Optional Resources:

  • Math- Chapter 5 Place Value
  • English Language Arts
    • Utilize your understanding of the Three Little Pigs fairytale! Follow this link to build a replica of one of the pig’s houses as an extension STEM activity.
    • Read & Reflect- log on to Raz Kids through your teacher’s class website and read one of your favorite fairy tales. Complete this story structure graphic organizer to show your comprehension.
  • Writing
    • Prompt- Use the graphic organizer to create your own fairytale! All fairytales should include some kind of unrealistic or magical characters, setting, problem, and solution!
  • Thematic Unit
    • Ask your parents for an old picture of your family (i.e. great grandparents, grandparents) and a recent picture of your family (i.e. you and your family). Use this Venn Diagram to compare and contrast the features of and materials in the images that are from the past vs. today!

Upcoming Dates:

  • Saturday, 9.28.19 - Fall Festival
  • Week of 9/30- Math Trimester 1 and ELA Compare and Contrast Benchmarks given
  • Thursday, 10.3.19 - Field trip to Cal Expo
  • Thursday, 10.3.19- WAVE Board Meeting 6:30pm
  • October 7-11: Fall Break

WCS News/Reminders:

  • Book Fair: Scholastic Book Fair opens Saturday, September 28th and will end Wednesday, October 2nd. Book Fair eWallet is now available! Give your student a secure, cash-free way to shop the fair. Simply create a free account, preauthorize a spending limit, and have funds immediately available. Click HERE to set up your eWallet. Click HERE to check out the book fair schedule.
    • Saturday, September 28th – 2 PM to 6 PM
    • Monday, September 30th – 3 PM to 5 PM
    • Tuesday, October 1st – 3 PM to 6 PM
    • Wednesday, October 2nd – 1 PM to 5 PM
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, September 29th Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as the Attendance Month update, Book Fair and the new eWallet option, Volleyball and Flag football schedules, Walktober, fall break activities in BASE, Chili Cook Off, RT Free Transit Program and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 6: 9/16-9/20

Hello, families!

What a busy week filled with place value, fairytales, and Grandparents' Day! What a special treat to have the opportunity to interview our grandparents and learn what life was like long ago.

ELA (Reading and Writing): This week, we read various versions of Cinderella (Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters and Trollerella) and the Three Little Pigs. Next week, we will read different versions of Little Red Riding Hood and complete a venn diagram to compare and contrast. In writing, we continued writing narratives and working on building writing stamina. Next week, we will begin writing fairytales.

  • Reading Reflection-After your child has read for 20-30 minutes, ask them to retell the story. If it is fiction, ask them to talk about the characters, setting, beginning, middle, and end.

Math: This week, we started chapter 5 : Place Value to 1,000. This week's lessons included relate hundreds, tens, and ones, read, write, and model numbers to 999, and use expanded form to represent numbers to 999. Feel free to use additional resources below to practice. Looking forward to next week, we will find counting patterns and compare three digit numbers.

Thematic Unit: This week, we interviewed grandparents to learn about life long ago. Students then completed a venn diagram to compare and contrast. Next week, students will complete a timeline. Be sure your child knows when and where he/she was born.

  • Additional resources: Interview a guardian or a grandparent (that was not at Grandparent’s Day), and ask them questions about what it was like for them when they were in second grade.
  • Read this article on NewsELA and learn about a 13 year old back in 1927.

Upcoming Dates:

  • Friday, 9.27.19-Spirit Day: Sports Day
  • Saturday, 9.28.19 - Fall Festival
  • Week of 9/30- Math Trimester 1 and ELA Compare and Contrast Benchmarks given
  • Thursday, 10.3.19 - Field trip to Cal Expo
  • Thursday, 10.3.19- WAVE Board Meeting 6:30pm
  • October 7-11: Fall Break

WCS News/Reminders:

  • The 2019 Fall Festival is September 28, 2-6pm. Our room parent, Jenilla Arnold, is collecting items for our Family Night In/Night Out. Click here to access the spreadsheet if you would like to donate items. Thank you for your support!
  • 2019 Fall Festival: September 28, 2–6pm join us for games, treat walk, food, silent auction baskets, team scavenger hunt, and more!! We cannot make this community event happen without your help. Please join us by volunteering your time (we ask you to just sign up for one 1-hour shift), baked goods, available items, purchased items, and of course bringing your family and friends to attend the event. You can find these opportunities at bit.ly/2019WCSFallFestival. And don't forget to help with your class basket; each class basket raises money to go directly back to your child's classroom. Reach out to your room parent or teacher for all the details. Thank you! (jenilla.arnold@gmail.com)
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, September 22nd Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as Spirit Day guidelines, AS Live details, a Save the Date for the return of Missoula Children’s Theatre and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 5: 9/9-9/13

Hello, families!

Read on to see what D106 explored this week.

ELA (Reading and Writing): This week, we read mentor texts (Fireflies, The Relatives Came, and Jabari Jumps) to study the elements of a narrative. We then filled out a graphic organizer which had us summarize the book and describe characters and setting. Looking forward to next week, we will compare and contrast different fairytales. In writing, we continued discussing narrative elements. Students are continuing to work on their writing stamina.

Math: This week, we finished chapter 2: Number Patterns. This week's lessons included repeated addition, repeated addition with arrays, even and odd numbers, and sum of equal numbers. Feel free to use this additional resource to practice. Lesson 6: Reteach and Enrichment Looking forward to next week, we will begin our chapter on place value.

Thematic Unit: This week, students were tested on labeling a map of North America. We also began our new unit, Families Today and in the Past. We are SO excited to have our grandparents visit our classroom to learn what life was like when they were children. Thank you to the families that have signed up. We currently have 5 signed up but would love to have more. Here is the form to fill out if you are attending or would like to donate refreshments/snacks. Tell your child what was life like for you when you were 7/8 years old. What did you do for fun? How did you get to school? What was your favorite toy or game? Did you have chores? What do you remember about second grade? In this unit, students will be creating a timeline of their lives. If you would like, your child may bring in 5 pictures (4x6 or smaller) to create their timeline. (Turn in by 9/20) Students that do not bring in pictures will draw/color life events.

Upcoming Dates:

  • Wednesday, 9.18.19 - Grandparents Day!
  • Wednesday, 9.18.19 - Social Media Safety Parent Night 6-7:30pm
  • Saturday, 9.28.19 - Fall Festival
  • Thursday, 10.3.19 - Field trip to Cal Expo (see below for more information)

WCS News/Reminders:

  • Wednesday, Sept. 18 We will be celebrating Grandparents Day! Please invite your child's grandparents to join us for a morning of inquiry and celebration! Click here for a digital copy of the flyer. Click here to donate some refreshment items for our grandparents! (There are multiple tabs on the bottom) Thank you!
  • Social Media Safety Parent Night: Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to learn from The Organization for Social Media Safety on Wednesday, September 18th from 6 – 7:30PM. Parents and guardians will learn about social media threats, websites, ways to protect students and more. Please click HERE to learn more about the presentation and the organization.
  • Please check your child's blue folder for the permission slip to Cal Expo for a farm and forest tour. 5 chaperones will be selected to ride the bus with us.
  • The 2019 Fall Festival is September 28, 2-6pm. Our room parent, Jenilla Arnold, is collecting items for our Family Night In/Night Out. Click here to access the spreadsheet if you would like to donate items. Thank you for your support!
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, September 15th Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as volleyball and flag football updates, Enrichment details, a call for adult volunteers to lead clubs or chaperone clubs, the 2019/2020 Spirit dates and descriptions, and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 4: 9/3-9/6

Hello, families!

Happy September! I am definitely ready for the weather to cool down. Read on to see what D106 explored this week.

ELA (Reading and Writing): This week, we did an author study on Kevin Henkes. I read his following books: Chrysanthemum, Julius, Baby of the World, Sheila Rae, the Brave, Wemberly Worried, and Owen. Afterwards, together as a class, we completed a graphic organizer stating the characters, problem, solution, and lesson. In writing, we talked about what a narrative is and the elements of it. I read the mentor text, Rollercoaster, to help students gain a deeper understanding. If you would like, you could have your child write or quick sketch about a time he/she lost a tooth.

Math: This week, we started chapter 2: Number Patterns. This week's lessons included skip counting on a hundreds chart, skip count by 2s, 5s, and 10s, repeated addition, and a problem solving strategy. I found that students were comfortably able to skip count forward but had a more difficult time skip counting backwards. For example, 70, 60, ____, _____ or 54, 52, _____, ______, etc) Here is a hundreds chart to practice skip counting backwards. Feel free to use this additional resource to practice. Lesson 3: Reteach and Enrichment. Looking forward to next week, we will look at repeated addition with arrays, even and odd numbers, and sums of equal numbers.

Thematic Unit: This week, we completed a process grid for the following types of community: class, second grade, WCS, Sacramento, CA, USA, and world. We also reviewed the map of North America. Students will be tested next week on several locations. Look at a map of North America with your child and together locate: title, Canada, Alaska, USA, Mexico, Gulf of Mexico, Sierra Nevada and Appalachian Mountains, Colorado and Mississippi Rivers, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, Great Lakes, and compass rose. Next week, we will also be starting our new thematic unit, Families Today and in the Past.

Upcoming Dates:

  • September 6-WAVE Bingo Night 6pm
  • September 12-WCS Board Meeting
  • Wednesday, 9.18.19 - Grandparents Day!
  • Saturday, 9.28.19 - Fall Festival

WCS News/Reminders:

  • Wednesday, Sept. 18 We will be celebrating Grandparents Day! Please invite your child's grandparents to join us for a morning of inquiry and celebration! Click here for a digital copy of the flyer. Click here to donate some refreshment items for our grandparents! (There are multiple tabs on the bottom) Thank you!
  • The 2019 Fall Festival is September 28, 2-6pm. Join us for games, treat walk, food, silent auction baskets, team scavenger hunt, and more!! We cannot make this community event happen without your help. Please join us by volunteering your time (we ask you to just sign up for one 1-hour shift), baked goods, available items, purchased items, and of course bringing your family and friends to attend the event. You can find these opportunities at bit.ly/2019WCSFallFestival. And don't forget to help with your class basket; each class basket raises money to go directly back to your child's classroom. Reach out to your room parent, Jenilla Arnold, for all the details. Thank you!
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, September 8th Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as a call for adult volunteers to lead clubs or chaperone clubs, a call for one more Volleyball coach, Spirit dates and descriptions, and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 3: 8/26-8/30

Hello, families!

Read on to see what we explored this week.

ELA (Reading and Writing): This week, students took NWEA Reading and Language Tests. We also practiced rotating between Listen to Reading, Read to Self, and Read to Someone during Daily 3. Feel free to use Freckle at home (class code: simenc) In writing, I read the following mentor texts (In The Tall, Tall Grass, All the Colors of the Earth, and We're Going on a Lion Hunt) to teach the students how to use sensory details in their writing. Looking ahead to next week, we will look at creating ideas for narrative writing.

Math: This week, we reviewed relating addition to subtraction, missing addends, fact families, and word problems. Here are some resources to use: Lesson 13: Reteach and Enrichment. Here is also a resource for word problems. Looking forward to next week, we will begin chapter 2, Number Patterns. Students will also be taking the NWEA Math Test on Wednesday. Please ensure that your child has eaten breakfast, is on time, and well rested.

Thematic Unit: This week, we continued to learn about communities. We created a grid map of our class and studied a map of North America. On the map, we discussed features such as rivers and mountain ranges. Look at a map of North America with your child and together locate: Canada, Alaska, USA, Mexico, Gulf of Mexico, Sierra Nevada and Appalachian Mountains, Colorado and Mississippi Rivers, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, Great Lakes, and compass rose. Next week, we will talk about the different type of communities including: classroom, school, city, and country.

Upcoming Dates:

  • September 2-Labor Day (No School)
  • September 4-Math NWEA
  • September 5-WAVE Board Meeting 6:30pm
  • September 6-WAVE Bingo Night 6pm
  • September 12-WCS Board Meeting

WCS News/Reminders:

  • Room Parent Needed: Our class is looking for a Room Parent for the 2019-2020 school year. Click HERE to sign up. This is a great opportunity to demonstrate what is possible when school and community collaborate!
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, September 1st Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as dismissal instructions, ASLive Enrichment sign ups, a call for one more Volleyball coach, and news from our WAVE team.
  • If you have not turned in your 4x6 family portrait, please turn one in ASAP. I have only received 10 so far.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful three-day weekend!

Mrs. Simental

Week 3: 8/19-8/23

Hello, families!

Thank you all who attended Back To School Night. If you were unable to attend, I am attaching it to the bottom of this newsletter.

ELA (Reading and Writing): This week, I introduced Listen to Reading. Students logged into their chromebook for the first time and went on to Freckle and Raz-kids. If you did not have a chance to attend Back to School Night, I will send log-ins for those programs in your child's blue folder. I also introduced Read to Someone. Students enjoyed reading with a partner to help build their stamina. In writing, I introduced squiggle story and our must do, may do chart. Looking forward to next week, I will use mentor texts to teach the students how to use sensory details in their writing.

Math: This week, we reviewed the following subtraction strategies: use a number line, use doubles to subtract, subtract all and subtract zero. Feel free to refer to this resource (Doubles song) to review with your child. You can click the following links for worksheets if you would like to review this week's past lessons. Using doubles to subtract, Relate addition and subtraction, Looking forward to next week, we will continue to review subtraction strategies. We will cover missing addends and fact families.

Thematic Unit: This week, we learned more about communities. Students worked in partners to read a Scholastic News article about rural, urban, and suburban communities. We then created a t-chart describing each one. This week, we also learned a Communities Here, Communities There chant. Next week, we will study maps more in depth.

Upcoming Dates:

  • August 25-Spirit Store closes
  • August 26-Picture Day (in uniform)
  • August 27-Reading NWEA
  • August 29-Language NWEA
  • September 2-Labor Day (No School)
  • September 4-Math NWEA

WCS News:

  • Field Lessons and School Supplies: Note: Our next field lesson is scheduled for October 3! We really appreciate all the support. Click Here to make your donation today! Great News! Our school has already reached 39% of our School Supplies goal and 38% of our field lessons goal! Keep up the great work Explorer families! Note: All our school supplies have been purchased and our field lessons have been booked!
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, August 25th Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as room parent sign ups, standards based grading, and don’t forget; picture day, call for coaches, ASLive Enrichment sign ups, and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental


BTSN19-20Powerpoint

Week of 8/12/19

Hello, families!

Read on to see what we explored this week.

ELA (Reading and Writing): This week, our class learned 3 ways to read a book. Here is more information if you would like. I also introduced Read to Self and the class discussed finding a good spot in the class to read. Looking ahead to next week, we will discuss "good fit" books. I will also be introducing Listen to Reading. In writing, we brainstormed how and where writers get ideas. We used Library Mouse, Wilfred Gordon McDonald Partridge, and Jamaica's Find as mentor texts. Looking ahead to next week, we will create a heart map and I will introduce Writing Workshop norms.

Math: This week, we reviewed the following addition strategies: draw a picture, use a number line, add in any order (commutative property), use doubles and near doubles, and make a ten. Feel free to refer to these resources (Doubles song, Make ten song and activities) with your child. Looking forward to next week, we will begin to review subtraction strategies.

Thematic Unit: This week, we created our community agreements (Show respect, make good decisions, and solve problems) and I introduced scouts. I also introduced growth mindset and we read The Most Magnificent Thing and The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes. I sent a couple of growth mindset videos through Class Dojo that we watched in class. We will continue to discuss growth mindset throughout the year. Looking ahead to next week, we will begin to learn more about communities and maps.

Upcoming Dates:

  • August 21-Back to School Night
  • August 26-Picture Day (in uniform)
  • August 27-Reading NWEA
  • August 29-Language NWEA
  • September 2-Labor Day (No School)
  • September 4-Math NWEA

WCS News:

  • Field Lessons and School Supplies: Click Here to make your donation today! Great News! Second grade has already reached 25% of our School Supplies goal and 16% of our field lessons goal! Note: All our school supplies have been purchased and our field lessons have been booked! Thank you families for the support! Keep up the great work 2nd grade families!
  • Click HERE for the Westlake Weekly Newsletter: The Sunday, August 18th Westlake Weekly Newsletter includes important information such as standards based grading, new report cards, picture day details, call for coaches, ASLive Enrichment sign ups, and news from our WAVE team.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental


Week of 8/7/19

Hello, families!

Read on to see what we explored this week.

ELA (Reading and Writing): This week, our class focused on building classroom community through the following read alouds: All Are Welcome, The Day You Begin, Alma and How She Got Her Name, Officer Buckle and Gloria, and We Don’t Eat Our Classmates. Students also completed first week activities including how they felt on the first day of school and getting to know you questionnaires. Looking ahead to next week, we will begin our phonics curriculum and the beginning lessons of setting up our Daily 3 Reading Workshop.

Math: This week, we created the following anchor charts: Math they already know and Math they would like to learn, Math Tools vs Toys. Looking ahead to next week, we will begin reviewing addition strategies.

Upcoming Dates:

  • August 21-Back to School Night (see below for more information)

WCS News: Back to School Night Details: We are looking forward to seeing all of our families at Back to School Night this Wednesday, August 21st!

  • Distraction Free: This is a parent-only event to allow for teachers and families to connect in a distraction free environment. Our BASE program will be open for FREE for all WCS students during back to school night. Click HERE to RSVP for BASE at Back to School Night.
  • Food Trucks: Chandos Taco, Kona Ice and Good Dog food trucks will be in our parking lot from 4:45-7:10 pm so families have a food option for this busy evening.
  • Kinder through 5th grade families: We have two identical sessions, you only need to attend one. Session one is 6:00-6:30 pm, session two is 6:40-7:10 pm. Specialty teachers will be in their classrooms from 6:00-7:10pm - please stop by!
  • 6th-8th grade families: We have two identical sessions, you only need to attend one. Session one is 5:00-5:40 pm, session two is 6:00-6:40 pm. During these sessions, you will meet with your student’s core teachers and specialty teachers.

Free and Reduced Meal Application:Each year, we ask families to complete a Free and Reduced Price School Meals (FRPSM) application. Students received the application, as well as a cover letter in their backpacks on Friday. We need every student to return the letter with a parent signature and the appropriate check-box selected by Wednesday, August 21st. Even if you choose not to complete the FRPSM application, we still need a letter back for each student so that we can ensure every family had the opportunity to complete the application.

WCS Spirit Store is Open: The Westlake Charter Spirit Store is open! We have a wide variety of items available. Click HERE to browse our selection of WCS gear and place your order today. The deadline to submit an order is August 25th at noon and items are scheduled to arrive in September. NOTE: The Westlake Charter Sweatpants on the Spirit Store may not be worn as a part of your student’s school uniform.

Field Lessons and School Supplies:

  • Click HERE to donate toward our school supply and field lesson campaigns.
  • School Supplies: Families, this year each grade level has purchased all the school supplies that your students will need for the entire year. We get a great discount as a school, so we like to purchase everything in advance. We ask that if you would like to help out with school supplies, simply make a $25 donation to our School Supplies Campaign and we will take care of the rest.
  • Field Lessons: Speaking of donations, each grade level is planning some incredible explorations this year! You can see a list of Field Lessons for each grade level. The school has already paid for these trips, and everyone is going whether we meet our donations goal or not, however, we have set our grade level Field Lessons Donation Goal and placed it on the website to help support these trips. You can help by donating to our Field Lessons Campaign on our donations website - the new website will even break up your donation into smaller monthly donations for you with just the click of a button. Click HERE to donate today!

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mrs. Simental


I look forward to meeting you at Meet the Teacher on Tuesday, August 6 from 12-2!