September 5, 2025

09/05/25
Dear Families,
Welcome to our classroom blog!
We have reached day six of the school year, and a lot has already been happening in our classroom. I will be using this platform, along with student portfolios, to keep you informed about the events and activities taking place in our community of learners. My hope is that this will not only provide a starting point for conversations with your child about school, but also serve as another means of communication between home and school.
Highlights from Our First Two Weeks:
​Morning Routine
Each morning, students begin their day with multiplication fact practice and cursive writing. This slow-paced routine helps them start the day in a calm and focused way. Once everyone has arrived, we listen to the morning announcements and gather on the carpet for our Morning Meeting.
Morning Meeting
During our meetings, we have been learning about the Zones of Regulation. Students check in with themselves to see if they are in the Green Zone (ideal for learning), and if not, they practice strategies to help them get there. They have learned breathing exercises and how to use the Calm Corner, where they can take a 10-minute break if they feel frustrated, overwhelmed, or sad. With the transition back to school after summer, some students have needed to use this space, but with support, they have been able to self-regulate and return to learning successfully.
School Expectations & SOAR Coupons
We have also been reviewing school expectations for hallway behavior, the cafeteria, and recess. This year, students can earn SOAR coupons for following the rules. Take a look at how many coupons our class has already earned in such a short time!
Classroom Jobs & Tickets
Students have been assigned weekly classroom jobs such as Chair Stacker, iPad Monitor, Paper Passer, Materials Monitor, and First Aid Monitor. These responsibilities have been carried out with efficiency and teamwork, helping our classroom run smoothly. Jobs will rotate each week so everyone has an opportunity to contribute in different ways.
Students earn three tickets per day for completing their jobs. The Jobs Manager keeps track of tickets, and totals are given at the end of the week. However, if students do not follow expectations after a warning, a ticket may be deducted. Tickets can be saved and traded for Reward Coupons, such as lunch with the teacher, 20 minutes of drawing, or wearing a hat for the day. With more tickets (75 or 100), students may invite one or two friends to join them for special rewards.
Math
In Math, we started by discussing what our classroom should look and sound like during math time. Students agreed that since we all learn differently, we need to support one another by showing our work with numbers, words, and sketches; listening carefully; and treating math tools with care. We also talked about using math vocabulary when possible, taking turns, and encouraging our classmates.
Students have also learned how to use the “I’m Done, Now What?” center. This allows them to continue working independently with activities such as math challenges, riddles, games, and language practice while I work with small groups.
Language Arts
In Language Arts, we have begun learning about the Daily 5 structure. This framework includes: Read to Self, Work with the Teacher, Skill Practice, Listen to Reading, and Work on Writing. Each routine is carefully introduced and practiced before students have full choice. So far, we have focused on Read to Self and are working to rebuild stamina with five minutes of uninterrupted independent reading. Students have also been introduced to our 4th grade Lending Library and the classroom library, giving them plenty of books to choose from.
Read-Aloud & Community Building
In the afternoons, we have started reading The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate as a class read-aloud. Students have also shared their summer pictures and souvenirs to help us get to know each other better.
Additionally, they have been working on “All About Me” posters, coloring bookmarks, and completing housekeeping activities such as labeling their supplies.
As you can see, we have been very busy! You may have noticed your child coming home tired, and that is because they have been working hard. I am so proud of their efforts, their fantastic behavior, and their kindness toward one another. I am very excited to see their growth this year and look forward to partnering with you to ensure your child has a successful and joyful year of learning adventures.
Warmly,


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