The kids have done a great job adjusting to the longer day! They are now getting into the swing of things and ready for the challenge a longer day brings. We have adjusted our daily schedule and have enjoyed the flexibility for finishing up that being there a bit longer allows. See a new daily schedule in the locker section of the newsletter. The extra recess and fresh air (when it's not raining) has been helpful in approaching the late reading session with a high energy level. Please be sure to send a light snack for the new recess we take at 2:05. 
Important Weekly Homework Information
January/February News - Room #404
Martin Luther King Jr. Study - We have recently enjoyed learning about the contributions and lessons from the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The students seemed to embrace Dr. King's message that we can all dream and envision how our world could be a better place. Further and even more importantly, the students grasped the idea that individuals have the power to effect change. This study was accomplished through meaningful read alouds, partner talk, a great animated video, and a project to explore changes our own students would like to see take place.
Math Highlights
Please practice math facts with your student, particularly if they are having difficulty passing the weekly timed math progression tests. This can be accomplished through math games, flash cards and a variety of great websites including mathfactcafe.com and aplusmath.com. See also new fact test practice sheets in the locker section of this website.
Beginning in February, we will add the use of Mountain Math to our classroom math instruction. This comprehensive activity addresses many standards and benchmarks in a fun daily activity. You will be treated to a demonstration of this work at our student led conferences in March.
We look forward to celebrating Valentine's Day with an in class party on Friday February 12th. WIth the help of our room moms we will exchange Valentines and enjoy some treats and fun activities that afternoon. Please feel free to send Valentines to school that day, but they are not required. If your child decides to bring Valentines, please be sure to send a Valentine for all 20 students. Your child may wish to include recipients names or leave them blank and distribute them. You will be receiving a list of all students names shortly.
Wow! We have had a lot of rainy days! While the rain is much needed it can present some challenges to our day. We still attend PE and all of our other special classes. Understandably, we are inside the classroom for recess times. If you have any gently used age appropriate board games that you would like to donate to our classroom, we would love to have them. Board games can support our curriculum in many ways and they are a pleasant way to have some relaxing time inside during the rainy season. 
Your student is doing a great job...
Over the next several weeks we will enjoy studying the lives of many African Americans from past and present. We will be learning about the contributions of writers, politicians, musicians, artists, scientists, actors, athletes and others.
