Back to School Letter and Supply List * Homework Policy * Grades * Google Classroom * Class Dojo * Birthdays * Scholastic Orders * Specials Schedule * Top 5 Homework Tips
Homework Policy
Homework, when assigned, can help to reinforce the concepts learned during the day, teach responsibility, as well as planning, and time management skills. Homework is not often assigned, but will be on an as-need basis which may be different for each student.
I realize that children today lead very busy lives outside of the classroom which includes sports, religious classes, etc.
I realize that children today lead very busy lives outside of the classroom which includes sports, religious classes, etc.
However, it is essential for children to understand that homework needs to be completed regardless of these outside activities.
Please read carefully the following information. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
• Timing: Homework may be assigned on Monday through Thursday evenings. The time necessary for your child to complete homework will vary as all children work at a different pace. On an average, homework should take no longer than 40 minutes. Typically, homework is NOT assigned on the weekends however, at times, there may be long-term projects which may require a bit of work over the weekends.
• Student’s Responsibilities: I expect students to do their very best on all homework assignments. Homework should be neat and legible. Students should work on homework independently and only ask for assistance after putting forth much effort. Students should hand in all homework on time. Children are not penalized for not completing assignments IF the effort is put forth!
• Teacher’s Responsibilities: Most homework is either collected or gone over the day it is due. Children will have the chance to ask any questions they have about homework at that time. Homework is NOT graded (unless specified) however, is put into consideration on their report card based on their ability to consistently complete and hand in on time.
• Parent Responsibilities: It is essential for parents to encourage children to do their very best on homework. Please provide a routine for homework: a quiet place to work, essential supplies, consistent time, and daily check of the homework assignment pad. If there are any homework concerns, please send in a note with the assignment.
• Extenuating Circumstances: As a parent, I realize that on some nights the unexpected occurs. If these arise, please send in a note and your child will be able to make up the missed assignment the following night.
Grades
Grades are earned, not given. Grades are a compilation of written work, teacher observation, and student effort. IF students try their best, that is all I can ask of them. I use an "open-door" grading policy in my classroom, meaning that students can retake an assessment or redo an assignment until they feel they have shown their best effort and knowledge. The purpose of school is not to track children, but help them learn and grow.
Google Classroom
This year we will be using Google Classroom in our class. Google Classroom is a free and secure learning network for teachers, students, and schools. It provides a safe way for us to connect, share content, access homework, participate in discussions and receive class information. It is accessible online and through any mobile device with Internet capabilities – including free apps for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Android devices.
In Google Classroom, I can assign work to the students digitally, without paper. They can do it from school (or home, if they don’t quite finish something). They can submit it to me online, and I can pass it back to them with comments, edits, suggestions, and/or grades.
This tool will be used strictly for educational purposes using the following guidelines:
• Students will be required to use appropriate grammar instead of texting language
• Google Classroom does not allow private student-to-student messaging- the site will be used to discuss school-related content only
• No put-downs or sarcasm toward another’s ideas.
All school rules and consequences related to harassment apply. Students who violate the guidelines above may face disciplinary action and/or face losing the privilege of using Google Classroom. I look forward to a great year as we incorporate the use of technology into our classroom curriculum.
If you have any questions, please contact me at estianch@udsd.org
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Class Dojo
Click here to learn more, and sign up.
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This year we will be using Google Classroom in our class. Google Classroom is a free and secure learning network for teachers, students, and schools. It provides a safe way for us to connect, share content, access homework, participate in discussions and receive class information. It is accessible online and through any mobile device with Internet capabilities – including free apps for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Android devices.
In Google Classroom, I can assign work to the students digitally, without paper. They can do it from school (or home, if they don’t quite finish something). They can submit it to me online, and I can pass it back to them with comments, edits, suggestions, and/or grades.
This tool will be used strictly for educational purposes using the following guidelines:
• Students will be required to use appropriate grammar instead of texting language
• Google Classroom does not allow private student-to-student messaging- the site will be used to discuss school-related content only
• No put-downs or sarcasm toward another’s ideas.
All school rules and consequences related to harassment apply. Students who violate the guidelines above may face disciplinary action and/or face losing the privilege of using Google Classroom. I look forward to a great year as we incorporate the use of technology into our classroom curriculum.
If you have any questions, please contact me at estianch@udsd.org
Class Dojo
ClassDojo is a fabulous teacher tool I will be using to help build your student’s learning habits and boost classroom engagement.
ClassDojo allows me to track student behavior and learning skills throughout the day!
One of the great features of ClassDojo is that it allows me to send you a “behavior and skills report” every Friday by email.You can also use the app to see your child's progress in real time. My hope is that this will bring you and me closer together and help you better understand the progress of your student on a week to week basis.
The best part of Class Dojo is Class Story, which will allow me to post pictures and reminders all in one place, you can even comment and "like" our postings. A similar feature is Student Stories, in which your child will be creating their very own digital portfolio! You can message me privately through the app to ask questions during the year, and I will respond within 24 hours.
Click here to learn more, and sign up.
Birthdays
For birthday celebrations, your child is welcome to send in a small prize to share with the class. Items such as erasers, pencils, stickers, etc. are suggestions. If they would rather, a book donation can be sent in, instead.
*Effective September 2018- NO food can be shared for birthdays in Upper Dublin*
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Now it’s easier than ever to find the perfect books for your child—shop our NEW online Book Clubs Web site. Choose from a much-wider selection of books than in the printed flyer. Plus, you can send your orders directly to me online and use your credit card to pay.
Best of all, we earn a FREE book for the classroom library every time a parent places an order online.
It’s so simple! Here’s how it works:
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For birthday celebrations, your child is welcome to send in a small prize to share with the class. Items such as erasers, pencils, stickers, etc. are suggestions. If they would rather, a book donation can be sent in, instead.
*Effective September 2018- NO food can be shared for birthdays in Upper Dublin*
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Scholastic Orders
Class Activation Code: HBZKQ
Now it’s easier than ever to find the perfect books for your child—shop our NEW online Book Clubs Web site. Choose from a much-wider selection of books than in the printed flyer. Plus, you can send your orders directly to me online and use your credit card to pay.
Best of all, we earn a FREE book for the classroom library every time a parent places an order online.
It’s so simple! Here’s how it works:
- SIGN UP at www.scholastic.com/bookclubs. On the parent page, register by clicking click the “Don’t have a user name or password?” link. When prompted, enter the one-time Class Activation Code shown above. This unique code ensures that your order is sent to me.
- SELECT the books you’d like to order—choose from thousands of titles—many more than in our monthly flyers.
- SEND your order to me online by the due date and your child’s books will be delivered directly to my classroom.
Specials Schedule
A- Library
B- Music
C- PE/Health
D- Art
*Note that on PE days, students must wear sneakers*
A- Library
B- Music
C- PE/Health
D- Art
*Note that on PE days, students must wear sneakers*
