Welcome to Mrs. Newby’s First Grade!

 Welcome to one of the most incredible years your child will have in his/her school career!  First grade is an exciting time as children embark upon new adventures in the world of learning. This is a year of important transitions, as well as one in which acquisition of new skills is accelerated.  First graders develop fundamental work habits, appropriate social behavior, problem solving, decision making and of course academic skills. I hope to make your child's first grade  experience a fun and exciting one, and to instill a love of learning that will last throughout your child's years of schooling.

So much happens in First Grade and because of this parents as well as children may have some apprehensions.  It is extremely important to keep in mind that we all build on small successes.  Each child will progress at his/her own rate, acquiring skills as he/she is developmentally ready.  Maintaining each child's self-esteem and building a secure foundation for future growth will always remain priority in our first grade.  Here are some ways you can help.

*Celebrate your child's success, no matter how small it may seem.  This will keep your child enthusiastic about learning and proud of their work!

*Read to and with your child every day.  The more your child is exposed to language, the easier it will be for him/her to incorporate new skills in reading and writing in the classroom.  Plan to spend 10 to 20 minutes daily – the rewards are priceless.

Absences

Attendance is important in first grade.  What we do in class involves active participation, and it is very important that your child attends each day.  However, I do realize that sickness, family emergencies, and doctor’s appointments do occur.  In accordance with school policy, students will be given one day for each day missed to complete and return missed assignments.  Also please make arrangements to pick up your child’s work to ensure that he/she does not fall behind. 

Homework

Homework will require some parental involvement at this level.  Your cooperation is essential in developing a positive homework habit.  Each day of the week your child will have a library book or Accelerated Reading book to read. After reading the book, place the title of the book on the front of the homework folder, initial, and date.  Also on Tuesdays your child will have spelling homework that is to be completed and returned on Wednesday.  There is a zero tolerance policy for late work.  Assignments not completed and returned on time will result in zero credit (50% the first time) and will have to be made up during recess. 

First and foremost, you can encourage your child by showing interest and demonstrating helpful attitudes toward homework.
Some additional suggestions for homework:
• Establish a regular "homework time" in the home and have a special place free from excessive noise and distractions.
• Help your child organize adequate time to complete activities neatly and carefully.
• Encourage your child to ask for help when he/she doesn't understand something or is frustrated. Teachers, like parents, can help only if they know there is a need.

Everyday your child will bring home his/her Homework Folder.  Please check this each day. It may contain important announcements, homework assignments, or completed work.  It is very important that your child brings this back to school each day.  This will help to create a routine and continue the communication between home and school.  You may also use this as a way to communicate with me.  For instance, if your child is doing something different from his/her normal schedule (being picked up from school, leaving early for an appointment, etc) please send me a note to let me know the change of plans. Students are responsible for giving me any notes or money from this folder each morning as part of our classroom morning routine.