Welcome back from break! I hope everyone enjoyed their last bit of summer vacation. The students had lots of fun stories to share us about the adventures they went on -- some of the best learning happens outside the classroom!

I was very impressed with how well the students remembered our classroom rules, routines, etc. especially since they hadn't been in school for 3 weeks. The transition back into school was a smooth one, at least as far as I could tell. Thank you for getting your students to class on time and supporting them in their homework.

Last week we focused on rounding and estimating numbers. Test your child to see if they can remember the "round animal" examples with the houses and the "car driving up a hill" example. We also read a book called "The Patchwork Quilt" as a class and are in the process of writing a mini book report about it. In writing we worked on our Worst First Day of School Ever papers and some students have already finished typing theirs. I was so impressed with all the great ideas the students generated, we've got quite a group of talented writers!

My favorite part of the week was talking about 9/11. We had some great discussions and watched some clips about it so the students could better visualize just how devastating the attacks were. I think they developed a greater understanding of freedom and unity as well as a greater appreciation for this country we live in.

Upcoming events:
C and D track Fun Run - Septmeber 16
Election Day - September 13

Jordan Ridge is going along with the Road to Success program again but things have changed a bit this year. Instead of rewarding the students for how many minutes they read we will be rewarding them for how many days they read. To earn a ticket for the bike and savings bond drawings (as well as other prizes) the students must read 5 days during the week. In addition, if they read on Saturday and Sunday they get an extra ticket. So, if your child reads every day they will earn 2 tickets each week. The minimum number of minutes that need to be read to qualify as a day of reading is 15. I will be awarding class prizes and incentives to those students who continue to read at least 20 minutes a day. Sorry this is all kind of confusing, we teachers are still trying to get the hang of the new program. If you have any questions you can call or email me or send a note in your child's planner. I guess the bottom line is: keep encouraging your child to read every day!

I was sick yesterday so I wasn't at school, I hope everything ran smoothly with the substitute. This is such an outstanding class, I'm sure the kids were great for her! Please remind your child to read their guided reading book (that is their only homework for the weekend).