Happy Last Day of School!

Dear Families,
Happy last day of school!  It is with mixed emotions I am writing this update.  This is such an exciting time, with so many possibilities in the near future, but it is also a time of anxiety and stress, as transitions and change can be hard for some children.  I hope you and your family will enjoy a restful and happy summer together and come back to school in the fall fully rested and eager to learn again.

I hope you have checked your child's backpack in the last few days because we started sending home math books, writing folders and other materials earlier this week.  If you did not, you might want to check it today:)  You will notice that some pages in math or writing are unfinished.  There are many different reasons for that.  In first grade math, for example, I sometimes photocopy the work-pages because they are easier to complete as single sheets.  In writing, your child might not have had enough time to finish his/her story.  If your child wishes to complete these pages at home, please do so.  Happy Learning!

Your child is coming home with his/her report card as well.  Your child is also bringing home a "reading race" for the summer.  This game is just for fun and to encourage reading over the summer.  It is voluntary.  The directions are in the center of the game board and I sent home a sheet of stickers to use to mark off as your child moves around the game board.  Each box on the game board contains a reading task.  Your child will finish that task before placing a sticker on the box and move to the next box.  There is no need for dice as the player must complete all the tasks around the game board.  When your child reaches a star, email me, or post an update on Kidblog for a special surprise!  If your child finishes the entire reading race (and completes all the reading tasks) let me know when we return to school.  In the past, children bring in their completed reading race board and we celebrate together.  For those students who are going to WCS in the fall, post a picture on our Kidblog so you too can get your special prize and recognition! Let me know if you have any questions! 

I will send out information about how to access KidBlog again to everyone.  I know most of you already know this (and the kids know as well), but I wanted everyone to know that this will remain active over the summer.  Our KidBlog provides a safe and secure place for your child to stay connected over the summer and a place for your child to share about his/her experiences, adventures and reading.  Current second graders will have access to this next year as well and it provides a nice transition for some as they start 3rd grade.  Stay in touch and visit us as we will add out new, incoming friends shortly.

Thank you all for a wonderful year.  It has been my pleasure to teach your child.
Have a great summer.

Maria