STAR Binder
The STAR binder is a three ring binder that aids in the communication between home and school. The STAR binder should contain at all times the following: calendar, important information sheet (with student usernames for web based programs), take home folder, class list, class policies, reading log, daily agenda, and schedule.
Portfolio
We will be collecting student tests, projects, and other work in a student portfolio. You may view the portfolio anytime. Periodically we will send the portfolio for you to look over. If at any time in between you'd like to view the portfolio, please just let us know and we will send it home with your child.
Morning Routine
Students will be expected to come straight to class to begin their morning routine. This routine will consist of going first to Mrs. Vaughan’s room to sign up for lunch, show their STAR notebook, use the restroom, fill water bottles, sharpen pencils, and then moving to Mrs. Yates’ room to begin morning work. Their morning work will consist of both language and math practice. Each morning work assignment should require little to no assistance, and we will discuss the items later in the morning. We ask that students come directly to class for safety purposes as well as showing responsibility.
Reading
Reading will be taught EVERY day in multiple settings. We will provide reading instruction covering a specific skill to the entire class first. After that, we break out into small groups to work with students on their individual level. Students will be asked to read with other students, alone for sustained amounts of time, and also respond to what they are reading. Of course it is expected that they also read at home. We have seen BIG differences when that final component is put into place! A reading log will be coming home nightly to keep track of their reading at home. Stay tuned for information regarding your child’s appropriate reading level as we will be assessing them at multiple times throughout the year. It is imperative that each student read at an acceptable 3rd grade level. If that is not the case, tutoring opportunities will be provided throughout the day as well as after school.
Writing
We will dedicate time each day to a variety of writing activities. Students will respond in journals and online blogs as well as working on stories. We will work on several projects throughout the year that will take students through the entire writing process. There are three main genres of writing which are opinion, informative, and narrative writing. We will take turns writing in each of these genres to give kids practice writing for different purposes. Because our writing time is mainly spent on a specific focus, we will allow students to write about their own ideas whenever they finish the project we are currently working on or if they have free time in the day. On Wednesdays, students will be allowed to free write when all of their projects are complete.
Math
Our district has recently realigned our curriculum to meet Common Core State Standards. This initiative will mean students must master math concepts at a more rigorous pace. After we present our whole group lesson, students will break out into smaller groups to check for understanding or clear up confusion. This allows students who are struggling a small group setting to work in and students who have met the objective enrichment in other areas.
Word Work
Students will be working with a teacher during our small group time during reading. They will focus on spelling patterns, vocabulary building, and high frequency words. It is expected that students will carry this knowledge of words into their daily writing where they will be assessed. Due to the nature of our new standards based grade cards, students will not be taking weekly spelling tests this year.
Standards Based Grade Cards
This year the Willard District has adopted a new standards based grade card. More information about this was made available to you at Meet the Teacher Night in the red folder. Basically, the way it works is that you will be given more information regarding your child's progress by separating the individual standards out instead of giving a grade in a "lump sum". Students will be given a mastery, nearing proficiency, and remediation instead of a letter grade.
Calendar
The calendar page will be found in the STAR binder. Students will record their behavior on their calendar. If their day was good they will mark their agenda and calendar with a “G” for a GREEN day. If the student had minimal problems they will mark it with “Y” for a YELLOW day. In the agenda it will be noted with a reason for landing on yellow. If there were multiple problems of a minor nature or a more severe behavior issue they will mark their calendar with “O” for an ORANGE day. Again the agenda will note the reason for the orange distinction. If your child has demonstrated a severe behavior they will mark their calendar with “R” for a RED day and either Mrs. Vaughan, Mrs. Yates, or Mrs. Crighton-Smith will call home to explain what happened at school that day. I encourage you to set up a meeting at any time you feel you’d like to discuss your child’s behavior. Students showing exceptional behavior will be able to move their clips to "Tiger Stripe”. Please do not be concerned if your child does not end on Tiger Stripe. It's simply and additional way to reward good behavior and character.
Responsibility
In addition to following the school-wide discipline program ROAR, students will be able to earn tickets which they will be able to turn in for prizes each Friday. Students can earn tickets for being responsible, bringing forms back in a timely manner, remembering PE shoes, wearing their tiger t-shirt, bringing back their library books on time, and other positive classroom behavior.
Important Information Sheet
Students will be using a variety of online programs which require usernames and passwords. The Important Information sheet contains this information should they forget. In addition, the Important Information sheet will also contain your child’s current reading level, reading group, lunch id, and other information that students will need to refer to often.
Make Up Work
As per district policy, work will not be provided in advance for students who know they will be missing school. If you would like your child’s work sent home with a sibling, neighbor, or if you simply want to pick it up yourself, please let Mrs. Vaughan or Mrs. Yates know by 12:00 so that we can gather up the necessary materials and take them to where they need to go. We ask that all make up work be returned as soon as possible. This will allow students to stay current with what we are learning and not fall behind.
Unfinished Work
Students who fail to get their work done will work during TNT or recess to finish it. In the past, we’ve had some problems with sending work home only to have it never returned. Hopefully, this system will motivate students to work hard when the opportunities present themselves so that they don’t have to miss out on recess. Chronically not finishing work will result in a call home.
Homework
We will be assigning homework this year on a very limited basis. It is our belief that students are far more successful if their learning is supported at home. As always, reading and discussing books, visiting educational websites, or writing for a variety of purposes are always good choices if you wish to give your child enrichment at home.
Birthday Celebrations
Birthday celebrations are welcome as long as they do not disrupt our learning. We will find a time that fits into our day to enjoy treats if they are brought in, but please do not feel obligated to do so. Remember that we have 40 students so quick and cheap treats will easily do the trick. If possible, please send advanced notice to let us know you will be bringing in treats. This will allow us to plan accordingly.
Special Classes
Our special classes will be held from 10:35-11:25. This year all students have a set day for each special class.
VAUGHAN’S CLASS ONLY
Monday- Computer Lab and a 15 minute P.E.
Tuesday- Art
Wednesday- Library/Counseling
Thursday- Music
Friday- P.E.
YATES’ CLASS ONLY
Monday- Library and a 15 minute P.E.
Tuesday- Computers
Wednesday- Art
Thursday-PE
Friday-Music
Your child will need to bring tennis shoes on their designated PE day. Many times class points are taken away when students forget to wear their tennis shoes. We require my students to behave in every situation they are put into, which means that a poor report from a special class teacher will result in a consequence when they return to class. Consequences range from recess detention, walking laps, losing a privilege, or missing that special class the following time. Tiger tokens which are placed on our ROAR chart are given out when classes behave appropriately.
Brain Gym
Brain gym is essentially a way of allowing the class to regroup, refresh, and recharge. Brain Gym is designed to stimulate learning and break up the day. Some activities include breathing exercises, pressure points on face and ears, and body movements. It’s a great way to allow the students to recharge for 5 minutes so that more effective learning can take place.
TNT
This time of the day will be set aside for small groups, make up work, and enrichment. Many times students need just an extra push to understand a concept introduced in class and this time can do just that. Students that do not need additional help will be provided enrichment opportunities.
Lunch
Students will sign up for lunch as they enter each morning and will be given two options. They will not be allowed to change their option so it is important for students to make a good choice.
Toys/Electronics
As per school policy all toys and electronics must be kept at home. Previous problems have ranged between trades gone bad to theft. Our school policy clearly states that electronics (this includes cell phones and gaming devices) are not allowed on school property. While we do understand that some students carry a phone for emergency purposes, it is still against school policy. We will not search backpacks, but if we know that a child is carrying a cell phone or other electronic device due to it going off in class or it posing a problem, it will be left in the office for you to pick up at your convenience.
State Testing
Each April our school, along with every school in the state, participates in MAP testing. This year we will also participate in the Common Core Assessment along with other states across the U.S. Both tests will cover the areas of Communication Arts (reading, writing, spelling, grammar) and Math. Throughout the year, we will provide instruction on all standards that will be tested. We will also provide opportunities for practice tests so that students will be familiar with its format. It is very important for students to do their very best on the test. In August, results are sent to the school and they will be shared with you at parent teacher conferences.
Conferences
We will hold Parent Teacher Conferences during late October. Both Mrs. Yates and Mrs. Vaughan will be sitting in on the conference since both of us are in close contact with your child. Please make an effort to join us so that we can share valuable information about your child. Sign up sheets to schedule your conference will be available during Meet the Teacher Night.
Contacting Us
We can be reached in a number of ways, however, we prefer email because it allows for communication at convenient times for both parties. It also serves as a documentation of our communication. Having said this, please use what is best for you. We have listed available times for you to call at your convenience.
School Phone # 862-6308
ext.1131 (Vaughan)
ext.1130 (Yates)
Email
[email protected]
[email protected]
Monday
10:35-11:25
2:35-3:05
Tuesday
10:35-11:25 (Grade Level Meeting)
2:35-3:05
Wednesday
10:35-11:25
2:35-3:05
Thursday
10:35-11:25 (Grade Level Meeting)
2:35-3:05
Friday
10:35-11:25
2:35-3:05
The STAR binder is a three ring binder that aids in the communication between home and school. The STAR binder should contain at all times the following: calendar, important information sheet (with student usernames for web based programs), take home folder, class list, class policies, reading log, daily agenda, and schedule.
Portfolio
We will be collecting student tests, projects, and other work in a student portfolio. You may view the portfolio anytime. Periodically we will send the portfolio for you to look over. If at any time in between you'd like to view the portfolio, please just let us know and we will send it home with your child.
Morning Routine
Students will be expected to come straight to class to begin their morning routine. This routine will consist of going first to Mrs. Vaughan’s room to sign up for lunch, show their STAR notebook, use the restroom, fill water bottles, sharpen pencils, and then moving to Mrs. Yates’ room to begin morning work. Their morning work will consist of both language and math practice. Each morning work assignment should require little to no assistance, and we will discuss the items later in the morning. We ask that students come directly to class for safety purposes as well as showing responsibility.
Reading
Reading will be taught EVERY day in multiple settings. We will provide reading instruction covering a specific skill to the entire class first. After that, we break out into small groups to work with students on their individual level. Students will be asked to read with other students, alone for sustained amounts of time, and also respond to what they are reading. Of course it is expected that they also read at home. We have seen BIG differences when that final component is put into place! A reading log will be coming home nightly to keep track of their reading at home. Stay tuned for information regarding your child’s appropriate reading level as we will be assessing them at multiple times throughout the year. It is imperative that each student read at an acceptable 3rd grade level. If that is not the case, tutoring opportunities will be provided throughout the day as well as after school.
Writing
We will dedicate time each day to a variety of writing activities. Students will respond in journals and online blogs as well as working on stories. We will work on several projects throughout the year that will take students through the entire writing process. There are three main genres of writing which are opinion, informative, and narrative writing. We will take turns writing in each of these genres to give kids practice writing for different purposes. Because our writing time is mainly spent on a specific focus, we will allow students to write about their own ideas whenever they finish the project we are currently working on or if they have free time in the day. On Wednesdays, students will be allowed to free write when all of their projects are complete.
Math
Our district has recently realigned our curriculum to meet Common Core State Standards. This initiative will mean students must master math concepts at a more rigorous pace. After we present our whole group lesson, students will break out into smaller groups to check for understanding or clear up confusion. This allows students who are struggling a small group setting to work in and students who have met the objective enrichment in other areas.
Word Work
Students will be working with a teacher during our small group time during reading. They will focus on spelling patterns, vocabulary building, and high frequency words. It is expected that students will carry this knowledge of words into their daily writing where they will be assessed. Due to the nature of our new standards based grade cards, students will not be taking weekly spelling tests this year.
Standards Based Grade Cards
This year the Willard District has adopted a new standards based grade card. More information about this was made available to you at Meet the Teacher Night in the red folder. Basically, the way it works is that you will be given more information regarding your child's progress by separating the individual standards out instead of giving a grade in a "lump sum". Students will be given a mastery, nearing proficiency, and remediation instead of a letter grade.
Calendar
The calendar page will be found in the STAR binder. Students will record their behavior on their calendar. If their day was good they will mark their agenda and calendar with a “G” for a GREEN day. If the student had minimal problems they will mark it with “Y” for a YELLOW day. In the agenda it will be noted with a reason for landing on yellow. If there were multiple problems of a minor nature or a more severe behavior issue they will mark their calendar with “O” for an ORANGE day. Again the agenda will note the reason for the orange distinction. If your child has demonstrated a severe behavior they will mark their calendar with “R” for a RED day and either Mrs. Vaughan, Mrs. Yates, or Mrs. Crighton-Smith will call home to explain what happened at school that day. I encourage you to set up a meeting at any time you feel you’d like to discuss your child’s behavior. Students showing exceptional behavior will be able to move their clips to "Tiger Stripe”. Please do not be concerned if your child does not end on Tiger Stripe. It's simply and additional way to reward good behavior and character.
Responsibility
In addition to following the school-wide discipline program ROAR, students will be able to earn tickets which they will be able to turn in for prizes each Friday. Students can earn tickets for being responsible, bringing forms back in a timely manner, remembering PE shoes, wearing their tiger t-shirt, bringing back their library books on time, and other positive classroom behavior.
Important Information Sheet
Students will be using a variety of online programs which require usernames and passwords. The Important Information sheet contains this information should they forget. In addition, the Important Information sheet will also contain your child’s current reading level, reading group, lunch id, and other information that students will need to refer to often.
Make Up Work
As per district policy, work will not be provided in advance for students who know they will be missing school. If you would like your child’s work sent home with a sibling, neighbor, or if you simply want to pick it up yourself, please let Mrs. Vaughan or Mrs. Yates know by 12:00 so that we can gather up the necessary materials and take them to where they need to go. We ask that all make up work be returned as soon as possible. This will allow students to stay current with what we are learning and not fall behind.
Unfinished Work
Students who fail to get their work done will work during TNT or recess to finish it. In the past, we’ve had some problems with sending work home only to have it never returned. Hopefully, this system will motivate students to work hard when the opportunities present themselves so that they don’t have to miss out on recess. Chronically not finishing work will result in a call home.
Homework
We will be assigning homework this year on a very limited basis. It is our belief that students are far more successful if their learning is supported at home. As always, reading and discussing books, visiting educational websites, or writing for a variety of purposes are always good choices if you wish to give your child enrichment at home.
Birthday Celebrations
Birthday celebrations are welcome as long as they do not disrupt our learning. We will find a time that fits into our day to enjoy treats if they are brought in, but please do not feel obligated to do so. Remember that we have 40 students so quick and cheap treats will easily do the trick. If possible, please send advanced notice to let us know you will be bringing in treats. This will allow us to plan accordingly.
Special Classes
Our special classes will be held from 10:35-11:25. This year all students have a set day for each special class.
VAUGHAN’S CLASS ONLY
Monday- Computer Lab and a 15 minute P.E.
Tuesday- Art
Wednesday- Library/Counseling
Thursday- Music
Friday- P.E.
YATES’ CLASS ONLY
Monday- Library and a 15 minute P.E.
Tuesday- Computers
Wednesday- Art
Thursday-PE
Friday-Music
Your child will need to bring tennis shoes on their designated PE day. Many times class points are taken away when students forget to wear their tennis shoes. We require my students to behave in every situation they are put into, which means that a poor report from a special class teacher will result in a consequence when they return to class. Consequences range from recess detention, walking laps, losing a privilege, or missing that special class the following time. Tiger tokens which are placed on our ROAR chart are given out when classes behave appropriately.
Brain Gym
Brain gym is essentially a way of allowing the class to regroup, refresh, and recharge. Brain Gym is designed to stimulate learning and break up the day. Some activities include breathing exercises, pressure points on face and ears, and body movements. It’s a great way to allow the students to recharge for 5 minutes so that more effective learning can take place.
TNT
This time of the day will be set aside for small groups, make up work, and enrichment. Many times students need just an extra push to understand a concept introduced in class and this time can do just that. Students that do not need additional help will be provided enrichment opportunities.
Lunch
Students will sign up for lunch as they enter each morning and will be given two options. They will not be allowed to change their option so it is important for students to make a good choice.
Toys/Electronics
As per school policy all toys and electronics must be kept at home. Previous problems have ranged between trades gone bad to theft. Our school policy clearly states that electronics (this includes cell phones and gaming devices) are not allowed on school property. While we do understand that some students carry a phone for emergency purposes, it is still against school policy. We will not search backpacks, but if we know that a child is carrying a cell phone or other electronic device due to it going off in class or it posing a problem, it will be left in the office for you to pick up at your convenience.
State Testing
Each April our school, along with every school in the state, participates in MAP testing. This year we will also participate in the Common Core Assessment along with other states across the U.S. Both tests will cover the areas of Communication Arts (reading, writing, spelling, grammar) and Math. Throughout the year, we will provide instruction on all standards that will be tested. We will also provide opportunities for practice tests so that students will be familiar with its format. It is very important for students to do their very best on the test. In August, results are sent to the school and they will be shared with you at parent teacher conferences.
Conferences
We will hold Parent Teacher Conferences during late October. Both Mrs. Yates and Mrs. Vaughan will be sitting in on the conference since both of us are in close contact with your child. Please make an effort to join us so that we can share valuable information about your child. Sign up sheets to schedule your conference will be available during Meet the Teacher Night.
Contacting Us
We can be reached in a number of ways, however, we prefer email because it allows for communication at convenient times for both parties. It also serves as a documentation of our communication. Having said this, please use what is best for you. We have listed available times for you to call at your convenience.
School Phone # 862-6308
ext.1131 (Vaughan)
ext.1130 (Yates)
[email protected]
[email protected]
Monday
10:35-11:25
2:35-3:05
Tuesday
10:35-11:25 (Grade Level Meeting)
2:35-3:05
Wednesday
10:35-11:25
2:35-3:05
Thursday
10:35-11:25 (Grade Level Meeting)
2:35-3:05
Friday
10:35-11:25
2:35-3:05