September 14th, 2004

Dear Parents,
We  had an  awesome first  week.  It's so  nice  to  have your children back.    They are special. 
Our unit on Ladybugs is proving to be a lot of fun.  We've observed, learned a few facts, and made Ladybug Quilt Squares.  The children would like to do a real quilt next.  If anyone quilts or can sew squares together, I could use some help.  This could be a home or school activity as we have two machines here.  Let me know if you are interested. 
Our Open House will be on Thursday September 30th .  Be sure to come see all the fun things that your children have been doing. 


Our Academic Schedule for this month is:
Cursive Handwriting- small letters
Creative Writing- My Summer Adventures
     Monday Journal
     Five on a Flower
     Grouchy Ladybug
Reading
Whole Group- Literacy Place
Small Group- Basal Readers
Towers
Skylights
Moonbeams
Read well

Math
Two Place Addition ( with and without regrouping)

Social Studies- Neighbors
We have new textbooks.  They're great

Science- Insects- Ladybugs

Art- Lots of needle arts (Needle Knitting)
  Quilting
  Needlepoint
  Beading

Homework- 20- 30 minutes a day
       Monday-Thursday
      Friday- Only incomplete work

Technology
We have two new computers in the classroom.  Computer Lab should be scheduled during the spring. 

Homework will start this week.  I would like it done on a daily basis in order to develop future study habits.  Please sign the homework assignment sheet daily.  If you have any questions call me.  Characteristically homework is review work, however I may include some long term projects as the year progresses. 
Our goal this year is to complete every piece of work on a daily basis.  If a piece of work is not completed, I will keep your child in for recess or 15 minutes of Specialist time.  If you prefer another option let me know.
I also need two Co. Room Mothers and a few substitute Mother helpers.  Let me know if you're interested.  Thanks for doing your part in getting this year off to a good start.

Sincerely,
  Jeannette Beatty