Mrs. Stifler’s Second grade 2017-18

Our classes will be beginning a four week Moon Journal next week.  This correlates with the second grade Science Standard which states:
-Analyze data gathered from observations of the moon during its monthly cycle to determine the phases of the moon.
          In their Moon Journal, students will need to observe the moon each night, record the time of their observation,  and draw the shape of the moon.  Obviously, there will be nights where it is not possible to see the moon, so I ask that students draw clouds or the reason why they believe the moon is not present to represent this.  However, they should make a good attempt each night to see it.  I am also asking that they have a parent initial the last box each night.  The moon journal is practicing an important scientific skill of data collecting and to make good observations, it needs to be done every night. It is considered homework and will receive yellow slip if not done.


Specials
Library Wednesday
Music  Wednesday
Art      Friday
Gym   Monday
 

Discipline


I will use the ClassDojo app to monitor classroom behavior. Everyone is familiar with how it works since Mrs. Starceski used ClassDojo in first grade. It is a good tool to indicate how your child is doing throughout the day. We start its use next week and I will send your invitation to view at the end of next week.


Homework


Your child will usually receive daily homework which will be written in his/her planner and on the classroom pages at the school's website (no  homework will be first the two weeks in August but will become daily in September). Please check their planner every day to help remind students what they need to complete. Reading is considered homework. Completion is vital to your child's success because it practices key skills that require mastery. It also teaches the students responsibility. Because of its importance, a student will be required to finish any incomplete homework at recess time and receives a yellow slip. If the student misses three homework assignments, the student receives a detention.


Your child’s folder and daily planner is also an important way to communicate between home and school and needs to be in your child’s backpack every day. Both the folder and planner should be checked daily for homework, notes, papers from office, etc. Notes or money to be returned to the school should be placed in the folder as well. Leaving a note in the planner is quickest and easiest way to communicate with me. If you have a lengthy question or comment, email me at cstifler@stpatrickyork.net.


Uniform


Second-grade students are required to wear a uniform as stated in St. Patrick’s handbook. Even though parts of the uniform that may seem insignificant like socks or belt, children need to follow every aspect of the uniform guideline. The goal is to teach students to practice good habits so that when they are older it becomes second nature. I have students self-check their uniforms in the morning. If they are missing part of their uniform or it’s incorrect, I send home a white form explaining what needs to be corrected.



Transportation


Anytime there is a change in your child’s transportation, please write a note or call the office before 2:15. I will always send your child home as established at the beginning of the year even if you child says otherwise. I found that children at this age misunderstand or misinterpret information. If you are having someone other yourself picking up your child, please send in a note because I am unable to release your child until the office contacts you to receive your permission.


Snacks


Students can bring a small healthy snack and/ or a small bottle of water for the morning . You can send healthy snack (fruit, veggies, pretzels, cheese, crackers, and yogurt) in a bag with their name. My classroom is nut-free environment so students can not bring any snacks that contain nuts. Please read labels because sometimes foods can be deceiving especially granola bars. If a snack has nuts in the ingredients, your child will not be able to eat the snack in the classroom.


Progress


To ensure each student's success, I monitor and evaluate each child’s progress to ensure that their needs are being met throughout the year. In order to communicate the student's progress, progress reports and report cards come out three times a year. I conference with every parent after the first report card in December. For the next two report cards, conferences are made as needed. If there is a significant problem, I communicate with you right away. Please feel free to contact me at time anytime to discuss your child's progress.


Volunteering


There are many opportunities to help our school. School events are held throughout the year and could not be possible without the help of many volunteers. Whether its during school , weekend or after school events, or projects that you can do at home, please donate your time and talent. To volunteer for any event at St. Patrick’s school, parents must obtain background clearances in accordance with diocesan policy. Forms and information can be obtained from the school office.