February 9-13

Dear Families of City View 4th graders,

It's been awhile since I've written. Boy, how I try! :) Here are some things going on in our class:

This week we're finishing up our American Revolution study in Expedition. Final projects are due on Friday, with students sharing their "findings" with the class that day. I'm curious to see what has "struck their fancy," and how they intend to demonstrate their learning with us.

We're working diligently on our writing this month. This Friday all "The Person I'd Like You to Meet" essays are due. Some of you might be seeing these come home this week as a couple of students have a different understanding than I about what a "final" or "published" draft looks like. I'll be certain to send a rubric along, delineating my expectations, and would appreciate any and all support that you can give to get these completed.

We welcomed a new student, Austin, to our crew last Tuesday. I'm in the process of organizing another "Family Social" so that we are better able to connect with one another as well as to welcome he and his family into our "fold." Be on the look-out for details on this.

Many of you have expressed interest in our class participating in Field-work this spring. I, too, am eager to make that a reality. If anyone has time to spare to help bring that to fruition, please let me know. I work diligently and find that time hasn't been "on my side" as much as I would like this year! (i.e. I'm overwhelmed and could use some help).

With Valentine's Day being on Saturday, and students considering purchasing or making notes or cards for one another, I'd like to request that they be all-inclusive. I will see to it that a class list comes your way and hope that you're able to make decisions as a family that will allow all children in the class to feel special and celebrated.

Big thanks and appreciation to Kristi, Tina, Becca, Donna, and Marian for their classroom support. I am so grateful for your presence. As many of you know, with 16 boys in the class, the energy can be pretty "big." These women have devoted so much time in helping to foster a peaceful learning community. If any other moms or dads wish to help support our crew in that way, (or others!) let me know.