During the first weeks of school we will spend many moments getting to know each other and creating a classroom community that fosters a safe and academically challenging environment that reaches every child. Last year I was trained in and part of a cohort of Stratton teachers that have implemented the Responsive Classroom approach to teaching. One of the main concepts is dedicated to spending time at the beginning of the year to build strong routines and a safe community for all learners. Stratton PRIDE and Open Circle are also embedded in our daily routines. I believe, integrating all of these approaches facilitates an environment where children are able to focus on learning and perform to the best of their abilities.
I am excited to learn about what your family and individual student learning goals are. To help me get a head start, I will send home a Family Questionnaire and a Student Questionnaire. This feedback will give me information that will facilitate early connections to you and your child. You can mail or email these questionnaires back to Stratton, drop them off at the front office or send them with your child the first day of school. Please send back the Family Contact Sheet as well.
Communication is a very important part of our developing relationship. I will create a group e-mail list for communication from me. Please send an e-mail to [email protected] from any addresses you would like included. Please state: “Add me to the group list”. I usually communicate on-line, so let me know if you would rather paper correspondence. Additional information is also available on this website.
At this point, you should have heard about the school supply program organized by the PTO. Therefore, I am not sending a supply list. Children may bring their own labeled home/school folder; otherwise, I will provide one. The only other important item is headphones. If possible, it would be great if students had their own labeled headphones.
I’m looking forward to a spectacular year!