I just have a few "housekeeping" notes to help the transition to First Grade move a little more smoothly. Please know that I am very interested in seeing your child grow and succeed. Our curriculum does move more quickly than the KII program, but we will do everything we can do to help your child in class. Sometimes, more help will be needed from home to help your child be more successful.
Absences: I am attaching an absence note to this page. Print out as many as you need. I need a note every time your child is absent from school. If your house is anything like mine, it is a scramble in the morning to get everyone out the door and I can never find paper to write the teacher a note!
Tardiness: School starts at 7:57 with morning prayers outside. When your child is tardy, even by 5 minutes, it is very disruptive to your child and the class. Directions have usually been given, the other students are unpacked, lunch money is collected, etc. Also, the children are only allowed a certain amount of time to complete morning work. Your child will not have the same amount of time and will need to either finish it at his/her recess or have extra homework. I do not like to do this, so please be here on time!
Homework: Homework is given daily and will be in your child's homework folder. Homework needs to be checked and signed by you each night! The children only need to color it if that is what the directions on the page say to do.
Snack/Lunch: We have the late lunch. Snack is at 9:50 but lunch is not until 12:45! Please make sure that your child eats a big breakfast, and has enough healthy snacks to eat for snack time. I always have children complaining about their stomachs before lunch arrives!
Lunch Money: If your child is buying lunch, the money (exact change if possible please!) needs to be in an envelope or baggie marked with your child's name and lunch choice. Children often forget what money is for. If you wish to re-use the envelope, please write that on the envelope and I will return it to your child.
Please label EVERYTHING!! with your child's full name.
Recess: All children go outdoors for two 20-minute recess periods each day unless the temperature is below 30 or the weather is inclement. Please make sure your child is dressed appropriately - an extra pair of mittens and a hat kept in the backpack is a good idea.
Holy Name School Uniform Sweaters: The temperature in our room varies greatly, so dress your child in layers. I often keep a window or two open for "fresh air" and it can get a bit chilly!
Notes: If anyone other than a parent is picking up your child from school, PLEASE send in a dated and signed note with your child's full name on it. If your child is attending an activity on a regular basis, a note is truly appreciated.
Folders: Please check your child's folder EVERYDAY. You will usually find it PACKED with school work, flyers, and notices. As daunting as it may be, try to sort through them, and reach each one. They often contain important information and reminders. Your child should come to school the next day with a fairly empty folder - just lunch money and notes to me. Homework should be in your child's homework folder.
