Hi Parents,
I hope everyone had a wonderful 3 day weekend. I sure did. I finally had time to catch up on some of the paperwork and I had time to make the distribution list. Woo Hoo. 
I just wanted to touch base with you and let you know of some things that are happening in class. Yes, this is the email where I ask for donations. So here it goes…..
1) If you happen to notice someones email is missing from above, please let me know so I can get their email.
2) Please send in $4.50 for the Time for Kids for your child if you can. I would like to order it this week. I have 15 people so far. I have also decided due to all the “yes” people that we will be purchasing “First in Math” for each child. That is going to be $7.00. Also, in the next couple weeks I will be sending home an order form for our fourth grade t-shirts. Your child will wear it every Tuesday to school and on all field trips. I believe the cost is around $10.00. The money pays for the t-shirt and toward a good cause “Saving the Whales” In January, we adopt a whale and get some cool stuff for the class. It goes along with our Life Science Unit.
3) The kids are doing great. They have learned most of the routines and I can tell their little brains are gearing up for the year. We have already finished two stories in our Anthology Book. In the beginning of the year, their weekly scores can be a little shaky, but they do get better. We will be finishing up some of the skills and reading this week and spend the next week reviewing and taking our first Theme Test. In math, we are on Topic 2 and I can see the wheels are starting to turn. I can tell this is going to be a great year.
4) As far as meeting with parents before conferences, I am going to have to respectfully decline any meetings before or after school until conferences. I understand that you want me know and understand your child, and I know a few minutes before or after school doesn’t seem like a lot, but with 28 sets of parents it does take up a lot time that I need to be preparing to teach your child. Toward the end of this week, I will be sending out a conference sheet sign up where you can make your appointment. The conferences will be about 20 minutes. We will setting goals for your child using the data I have and the insight you have on your child. It would be nice to have your child there. If there is something private you would like to discuss with me without your child present, we can have them leave for a few minutes. Thank you for understanding and respecting the time I have available.
5) Volunteering- As of right now, I am good. We will be having a field trip to the Apple Store this month. I will need some chaperones to walk us over there. If you would like to come and chaperone, please email me. I am meeting with the Apple Manager today to determine a day. time and what we will be doing with the students. I will let you know the date as soon as I do. I know it will be this month.
I hope you found this letter informative. It has been a pleasure getting to know your children and meeting you. I look forward to a wonderful year.
Debbie Wright