Hello families!
I hope you have a restful and thankful Thanksgiving break! I know I enjoyed spending the week with my kiddos at home. :)
We are back into the swing of things tomorrow with 3 full weeks until Christmas break. Please note that our November reading calendars are due tomorrow (12/1) and that we will be working on our Wordly Wise Lesson 4 this week with a quiz on Friday (12/5).
The SaveAround fundraiser coupon books are due back this week if your child brought one home and you did not want to purchase one. (They went home with the youngest child in the family.) All books must be returned or paid for by Thursday (12/4).
I will be sending home Scholastic Book orders on Monday. This will be the last order before Christmas. They are due back by Friday (12/5). If you would like to order something as a surprise, just let me know and I will keep it hidden and let you know when it gets here. Books make great Christmas gifts!
I am getting our volunteer calendar set for December and will email that out. If you would like to be added or change a time, please let me know!
Have a great night!
Mrs. Spenner
Sunday, November 30, 2014
Sunday, November 16, 2014
Snow day and end of trimester!
Hello families!
I hope you had a nice extra-long weekend! That was unexpected! I told the class I was sure there was not going to be a snow day on Friday...apparently I was wrong!
Moms and Muffins has been re-scheduled for Tuesday morning from 8-9:00 a.m. Hope you can make it!
Also on Tuesday is our Trading Post reward for 1st trimester. Any student that has accrued 45 stamps this trimester may participate. It will take place at 2:45pm and should be complete by 3:30pm. Students are encouraged to bring items from home to sell. These can be, but are not limited to: old toys, games, puzzles, homemade bookmarks, drawings, books, and stuffed animals. We only ask that they not bring electronics (due to the actual cost) and food items (due to food allergies). Students do not have to bring anything to sell if they do not want to, but the more we have the more fun it is for everyone!
Report cards will be available on Thursday afternoon. I ask that you please do not get on PowerSchool to look until then. I will be working on grades until that time so your child's report card may not be accurate if you check before then.
If you will be leaving early for Thanksgiving break, can you please let me know so that I can prepare activities early? I would appreciate it.
Finally, we will be celebrating October and November birthdays Friday afternoon at 3:20 p.m. If your student has a birthday then and they would like to bring in a treat to share, feel free to do so at that time. Please keep in mind that we are moving to healthy food items per the districts new food policy. I appreciate your help with this.
Have a great week!
Mrs. Spenner
I hope you had a nice extra-long weekend! That was unexpected! I told the class I was sure there was not going to be a snow day on Friday...apparently I was wrong!
Moms and Muffins has been re-scheduled for Tuesday morning from 8-9:00 a.m. Hope you can make it!
Also on Tuesday is our Trading Post reward for 1st trimester. Any student that has accrued 45 stamps this trimester may participate. It will take place at 2:45pm and should be complete by 3:30pm. Students are encouraged to bring items from home to sell. These can be, but are not limited to: old toys, games, puzzles, homemade bookmarks, drawings, books, and stuffed animals. We only ask that they not bring electronics (due to the actual cost) and food items (due to food allergies). Students do not have to bring anything to sell if they do not want to, but the more we have the more fun it is for everyone!
Report cards will be available on Thursday afternoon. I ask that you please do not get on PowerSchool to look until then. I will be working on grades until that time so your child's report card may not be accurate if you check before then.
If you will be leaving early for Thanksgiving break, can you please let me know so that I can prepare activities early? I would appreciate it.
Finally, we will be celebrating October and November birthdays Friday afternoon at 3:20 p.m. If your student has a birthday then and they would like to bring in a treat to share, feel free to do so at that time. Please keep in mind that we are moving to healthy food items per the districts new food policy. I appreciate your help with this.
Have a great week!
Mrs. Spenner
Friday, November 7, 2014
No School Monday or Tuesday
Hello families!
We are nearing the end of the 1st trimester. Monday will be a teacher in-service day and Tuesday is Veteran's Day so there will not be any school those days. Because of this, we will not have a story or spelling test next week.
Our Trading Post time is coming up. We will have Trading Post on Tuesday, Nov. 18th. I will give you more details about that next week.
Finally, A note from Cascade Transportation:
Nov. 4, 2014
Dear Parents,
We are nearing the end of the 1st trimester. Monday will be a teacher in-service day and Tuesday is Veteran's Day so there will not be any school those days. Because of this, we will not have a story or spelling test next week.
Our Trading Post time is coming up. We will have Trading Post on Tuesday, Nov. 18th. I will give you more details about that next week.
Finally, A note from Cascade Transportation:
Nov. 4, 2014
Dear Parents,
In
order to improve the safety of your student’s bus route and provide
supervision at the bus stop, the following changes are being made. Please find your bus stop and time. Students are required
to be at their bus stop 5 minutes ahead of scheduled bus arrival time.
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Friday, October 31, 2014
Happy Halloween!
Hello families!
Many students will have a Wordly Wise assignment to complete this weekend. We will be correcting lesson 3 parts A, B, C, and D on Monday morning. Please encourage them to get it complete and back to school on Monday. There will be a test next Friday over these vocabulary words.
I am emailing the November volunteer calendar out to everyone. If you would like to help and your name is not listed, please send me a note back. Or, if you are on the calendar and that day/time will not work for you, please let me know as well so we can get you changed! I appreciate everyone who is willing to come in and help with groups!
Thank you to the parents who helped with our Halloween party today! The food, game, and craft were wonderful! I know the kids are so excited to go out Trick-or-Treating tonight! I hope everyone has a safe and fun night tonight!
Have a spooktacular evening!
Mrs. Spenner
Many students will have a Wordly Wise assignment to complete this weekend. We will be correcting lesson 3 parts A, B, C, and D on Monday morning. Please encourage them to get it complete and back to school on Monday. There will be a test next Friday over these vocabulary words.
I am emailing the November volunteer calendar out to everyone. If you would like to help and your name is not listed, please send me a note back. Or, if you are on the calendar and that day/time will not work for you, please let me know as well so we can get you changed! I appreciate everyone who is willing to come in and help with groups!
Thank you to the parents who helped with our Halloween party today! The food, game, and craft were wonderful! I know the kids are so excited to go out Trick-or-Treating tonight! I hope everyone has a safe and fun night tonight!
Have a spooktacular evening!
Mrs. Spenner
Friday, October 24, 2014
Halloween and Red Ribbon Week
Hello families!
We have a busy week coming up! Next week is Red Ribbon Week. There are activities planned each day to celebrate being drug-free.
A note from our counselor:
October 27-30, 2014
We have a busy week coming up! Next week is Red Ribbon Week. There are activities planned each day to celebrate being drug-free.
Red Ribbon
Week is celebrated in schools across the country to bring attention to the
benefits of living a drug free life and making healthy choices now and in the
future. Students will be bringing home activity books to discuss with parents.
Monday – Put a Lid on Drugs Day
Wear your favorite hat to
school! They must come off in the classroom.
Tuesday – Team up Against Drugs Day
Wear your favorite team
jersey!
Wednesday – Sock it to Drugs Day
Wear your crazy socks!
Thursday – Wear Red Day
Wear as much red as
possible!
Friday - Have a fun and
safe Halloween!
On Friday, we will be having our class Halloween party. Students are allowed to wear costumes at that time (but they must be able to put them on themselves). As always, no masks, face paint, or hair dye. Also, anything that might be seen as a weapon needs to stay at home. Thank you for your help with this.
Have a great weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Friday, October 17, 2014
Conference Thank You!
Hello families!
It was so good to meet with almost every family last week! I hope that I was able to answer any questions you have. I want to work with you to help your student get the most out of their 4th grade experience. Thank you for being willing to take time out of your day to meet with me, I truly appreciate it!
I have updated the blog to show what we will be going over next week in class. Take a look!
Have a wonderful weekend,
Mrs. Spenner
It was so good to meet with almost every family last week! I hope that I was able to answer any questions you have. I want to work with you to help your student get the most out of their 4th grade experience. Thank you for being willing to take time out of your day to meet with me, I truly appreciate it!
I have updated the blog to show what we will be going over next week in class. Take a look!
Have a wonderful weekend,
Mrs. Spenner
Sunday, October 5, 2014
October Conferences
Hello families!
Can you believe we have been in school for 6 weeks already? It is time for conferences! I am excited to meet with each family this upcoming week. We will be going over MAP scores, class work habits, and any concerns you or I have about your student.
I was about to send out my volunteer calendar for the month and the computer ate my homework! Somehow my calendar went blank and I cannot find the sign-up sheet. If you signed up to volunteer (I still have showing: Mrs. Nye, Mrs. Orduno, and Mrs. Summers), would you please send me a note. I know I am still missing at least 3 others and I don't want to leave anyone out! Thank you so much for understanding!
Have a fantastic week!
Mrs. Spenner
Can you believe we have been in school for 6 weeks already? It is time for conferences! I am excited to meet with each family this upcoming week. We will be going over MAP scores, class work habits, and any concerns you or I have about your student.
I was about to send out my volunteer calendar for the month and the computer ate my homework! Somehow my calendar went blank and I cannot find the sign-up sheet. If you signed up to volunteer (I still have showing: Mrs. Nye, Mrs. Orduno, and Mrs. Summers), would you please send me a note. I know I am still missing at least 3 others and I don't want to leave anyone out! Thank you so much for understanding!
Have a fantastic week!
Mrs. Spenner
Sunday, September 21, 2014
MAP testing and Picture Day
Hello families!
I have updated the blog with upcoming events and what we will be working on this week. Check out the "Looking Ahead" link on the right-hand side for spelling lists, etc. Once again, we have a busy week ahead. On Wednesday, we will be taking individual pictures. Everyone will be having their picture taken, even if you choose to not purchase any. If you would like to purchase pictures, a picture packet was sent home on Thursday. Please email or call if you need another packet before Wednesday.
On Thursday, we will be taking our Math MAP test. We are rotating students throughout the day (our class will be starting 2nd this time) and being flexible with our schedule to allow students as much time as they need to do their best.
We have started reading intervention with 4th and 5th grades together. We have grouped students using their spring MAP reading scores to help students at their own individual level. They are meeting each afternoon for 30 minutes. Groups may be altered after fall MAP testing is complete.
Finally, thank you to the parents/families that were able to make it to Open House last week. It was nice to meet with many of you. If you were unable to make it, I sent home all the information I covered. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I will have a volunteer schedule completed this week and placed on the blog. Conferences are coming up in just a few weeks and I am looking forward to meeting with every family at that time!
Have a great week!
Mrs. Spenner
I have updated the blog with upcoming events and what we will be working on this week. Check out the "Looking Ahead" link on the right-hand side for spelling lists, etc. Once again, we have a busy week ahead. On Wednesday, we will be taking individual pictures. Everyone will be having their picture taken, even if you choose to not purchase any. If you would like to purchase pictures, a picture packet was sent home on Thursday. Please email or call if you need another packet before Wednesday.
On Thursday, we will be taking our Math MAP test. We are rotating students throughout the day (our class will be starting 2nd this time) and being flexible with our schedule to allow students as much time as they need to do their best.
We have started reading intervention with 4th and 5th grades together. We have grouped students using their spring MAP reading scores to help students at their own individual level. They are meeting each afternoon for 30 minutes. Groups may be altered after fall MAP testing is complete.
Finally, thank you to the parents/families that were able to make it to Open House last week. It was nice to meet with many of you. If you were unable to make it, I sent home all the information I covered. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I will have a volunteer schedule completed this week and placed on the blog. Conferences are coming up in just a few weeks and I am looking forward to meeting with every family at that time!
Have a great week!
Mrs. Spenner
Friday, September 12, 2014
Back To School Night!
Hello families!
I am looking forward to meeting with as many of you as possible next Tuesday, September 16th for our Parent Open House. It will begin at 5:00 with a PTA presentation in the gym. From there we are hosting 2 sessions. The sessions run from 5:15-5:50 and then 6:00-6:30. Each session will be the same (if you have more than one student at Discovery).
Students may have homework this weekend. We have started working in our Wordly Wise books. Students need to have Lesson 1 parts A and B completed by Monday. Also, many of the students are not completing their spelling homework each week (or are not remembering to bring it back on Friday). If you are unsure about this, I will go over expectations/homework when we meet at the Parent Open House on Tuesday.
I hope you have a fabulous weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
I am looking forward to meeting with as many of you as possible next Tuesday, September 16th for our Parent Open House. It will begin at 5:00 with a PTA presentation in the gym. From there we are hosting 2 sessions. The sessions run from 5:15-5:50 and then 6:00-6:30. Each session will be the same (if you have more than one student at Discovery).
Students may have homework this weekend. We have started working in our Wordly Wise books. Students need to have Lesson 1 parts A and B completed by Monday. Also, many of the students are not completing their spelling homework each week (or are not remembering to bring it back on Friday). If you are unsure about this, I will go over expectations/homework when we meet at the Parent Open House on Tuesday.
I hope you have a fabulous weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Friday, September 5, 2014
2nd week news
Hello families!
We have had a very busy week! Our first spelling test is Friday morning. Please make sure that students completed their spelling homework this week and returned it to school for credit. Students were to find 15 words in their environment and cut/paste or write those words into their spelling notebook. (If writing words they found on billboards, etc, please write WHERE they found the word.) This will be a weekly assignment that will come home each Monday.
I also sent another homework assignment home that I need your help with. We are working on "All About Me" folders and students need to create a timeline of their life. Also, it asks which states students have visited or lived in. You will be able to help your student much better than I will with these two items! We will be working on this again Monday. Please make sure they bring their papers back to school on Monday morning.
I sent home our first Scholastic book order. If you would like to place an order, you may do so online (our class code is GX9YZ) or send back the order form with a check to "Scholastic" by Wednesday. I will be sending home orders each month.
Finally, if you haven't filled out your student information for me, please click on the following link:
Student Information Sheet
Have a great weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
We have had a very busy week! Our first spelling test is Friday morning. Please make sure that students completed their spelling homework this week and returned it to school for credit. Students were to find 15 words in their environment and cut/paste or write those words into their spelling notebook. (If writing words they found on billboards, etc, please write WHERE they found the word.) This will be a weekly assignment that will come home each Monday.
I also sent another homework assignment home that I need your help with. We are working on "All About Me" folders and students need to create a timeline of their life. Also, it asks which states students have visited or lived in. You will be able to help your student much better than I will with these two items! We will be working on this again Monday. Please make sure they bring their papers back to school on Monday morning.
I sent home our first Scholastic book order. If you would like to place an order, you may do so online (our class code is GX9YZ) or send back the order form with a check to "Scholastic" by Wednesday. I will be sending home orders each month.
Finally, if you haven't filled out your student information for me, please click on the following link:
Student Information Sheet
Have a great weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Thursday, August 28, 2014
New school year!
Hello families and welcome back to school! It has been a good start to the year so far! I was able to speak with most of you at the start of the year, but if you did not get a chance to fill out my Google Doc with your student's information, can you please fill it out now? Just click on the following link:
Classroom Information
We have a lot going on right now...the first week is always a bit crazy! Our regular classroom schedule will be more in effect next week. For now, we are all completing beginning of the year assessments so that we can get the kids placed in the correct intervention/reading/math groups. I would love to have parent volunteers starting soon. I will have a sign-up out at our Parent Night on September 16th. I hope you are able to make it that night!
If you haven't had a chance to explore the class blog, please take a few minutes to do so. I hope it will answer any of your classroom questions. However, if you need to talk or meet with me, please let me know and I am happy to do so!
Have a great night and a wonderful 3-day weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Welcome back to school!
Welcome to the 2014-2015 school year here at Discovery Elementary: A 21st Century School! I am so excited to begin the school year with you on Monday, August 25th!
Communicating with students and parents on a blog is a great format to get all our class information out to families. I plan to update this site weekly with upcoming events, classroom activities and projects, and important happenings in our classroom.
Please add your email address to the space called "Follow by Email." Type and submit your address to be sent an email any time I update/post on the site.
I am looking forward to meeting our class members! It will be a GREAT school year!
Mrs. Spenner
4th grade teacher
Room 27
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Celebration, Trading Post, and Field Day, Oh my!
Hello families!
We have so much going on these last few days of the school year!
First, if your child will be missing any of the days next week, please let me know as soon as possible as I am getting report cards, papers, etc. ready to go home next week.
Second, if your student has a summer birthday that they would like to celebrate with us, we can do it any day between tomorrow and next Wednesday. If you could please let me know ahead of time though so I know it is coming!
Third, tomorrow is Walk to School Day, Celebration Day (for testing), and Trading Post. Groups will be walking from both Maverik and Champion Park at 8:00am. There are special activities and treats during the day. We will have our Trading Post for students that received at least 45 green slips (many received 60 or 70...) in the afternoon. Anything except electronics and food are fair game to "sell." Old board games, books, toys, homemade crafts...time to clean out a junk drawer or closet! :)
Finally, Field Day is on Friday. Looks like we should have nice weather (79 degrees and sunny as of now)! Mrs. Jensen wants to remind students that closed-toe water shoes or tennis shoes are best--no flip flops!! Sunscreen/hats are fine and encouraged for when the students are outside for two hours on the field. Swimsuits are not allowed--now this is where boys--and some girls--ask about water shorts--as long as the length of their shorts meet school guidelines and they have a top that is not a swim suit, that would be fine. A change of clothes and/or towel would be smart to bring along. Parent volunteers, THANK YOU for helping us!! Field Day cannot happen without all the volunteers! Please make sure you are here by 9am (with sunscreen!) to get to your specific station.
No spelling this week and our weekly stories are complete as well. We are just finishing up everything for the end of the year. Can you believe it is here already?
I hope you have a fantastic week!
Mrs. Spenner
We have so much going on these last few days of the school year!
First, if your child will be missing any of the days next week, please let me know as soon as possible as I am getting report cards, papers, etc. ready to go home next week.
Second, if your student has a summer birthday that they would like to celebrate with us, we can do it any day between tomorrow and next Wednesday. If you could please let me know ahead of time though so I know it is coming!
Third, tomorrow is Walk to School Day, Celebration Day (for testing), and Trading Post. Groups will be walking from both Maverik and Champion Park at 8:00am. There are special activities and treats during the day. We will have our Trading Post for students that received at least 45 green slips (many received 60 or 70...) in the afternoon. Anything except electronics and food are fair game to "sell." Old board games, books, toys, homemade crafts...time to clean out a junk drawer or closet! :)
Finally, Field Day is on Friday. Looks like we should have nice weather (79 degrees and sunny as of now)! Mrs. Jensen wants to remind students that closed-toe water shoes or tennis shoes are best--no flip flops!! Sunscreen/hats are fine and encouraged for when the students are outside for two hours on the field. Swimsuits are not allowed--now this is where boys--and some girls--ask about water shorts--as long as the length of their shorts meet school guidelines and they have a top that is not a swim suit, that would be fine. A change of clothes and/or towel would be smart to bring along. Parent volunteers, THANK YOU for helping us!! Field Day cannot happen without all the volunteers! Please make sure you are here by 9am (with sunscreen!) to get to your specific station.
No spelling this week and our weekly stories are complete as well. We are just finishing up everything for the end of the year. Can you believe it is here already?
I hope you have a fantastic week!
Mrs. Spenner
Monday, May 19, 2014
May 19th
Hello families!
Thank you to all the parents who went with us to Rendezvous last Friday! Everyone had a great time. We did, however, have an incident when we returned. We were passing around cards with bits of gold dust on them to look at and I was going to draw 8 sticks to give the gold to students in class. But, on the the cards disappeared while we were looking at them. If your student comes home with a small, black card with gold taped to it, please let me know. The rest of the class missed out on a chance to get a card due to one persons dishonesty.
We are coming to the close of the school year. Please encourage your student to stay on top of their work. I am already starting to work on parts of the report card and it is difficult if work is missing! Also, as the year is ending, please check on your student's lunch account and not let it get into the negative amounts. Thanks for your help in this!
Have a great week!
Mrs. Spenner
Thank you to all the parents who went with us to Rendezvous last Friday! Everyone had a great time. We did, however, have an incident when we returned. We were passing around cards with bits of gold dust on them to look at and I was going to draw 8 sticks to give the gold to students in class. But, on the the cards disappeared while we were looking at them. If your student comes home with a small, black card with gold taped to it, please let me know. The rest of the class missed out on a chance to get a card due to one persons dishonesty.
We are coming to the close of the school year. Please encourage your student to stay on top of their work. I am already starting to work on parts of the report card and it is difficult if work is missing! Also, as the year is ending, please check on your student's lunch account and not let it get into the negative amounts. Thanks for your help in this!
Have a great week!
Mrs. Spenner
Friday, May 9, 2014
Happy Mother's Day!
Hello families!
A happy Mother's Day (early) to all the great Moms and Mother-figures in our classroom families! I hope that you have a great, relaxing day on Sunday!
I am still needing 2 more helpers for Field Day on Friday, May 30th.
So far I have the following helpers:
Lindsi Sanor, Tracey Oltman, Mignon Jeppson, Jamie Dye, and Shelley Draghici.
If you are able to help that morning, I would truly appreciate it! Just click on the link:
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FACA822A6F58-field
or call, e-mail, or send a note in with your student. It is a fun day for the kids and parents!
Rendezvous is coming up! Our parent meeting is Friday morning at 8:30am to go over the plan for the day. We are leaving immediately when school begins (our first station begins at 9:30am). Students will need a sack lunch and tennis shoes (please no sandals or flip flops) and weather appropriate clothing. As of now, the weather looks like it will be in the 80's. Very nice!
I like to pack lunches into a couple of large coolers (especially if it will be hot). I have a medium sized one, but if you have a large cooler we could borrow, please let me know. I will have a parent volunteer deliver it to the lunch site for us as we cannot take our lunches on the bus.
Finally, we are down to our last MAP test. We will be taking the language test on Wednesday this week. Please encourage your student to get some rest, eat a good breakfast and be at school that day. Any make-ups will have to be on Thursday as we are gone Friday and all tests must be complete by then.
Have a great weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
A happy Mother's Day (early) to all the great Moms and Mother-figures in our classroom families! I hope that you have a great, relaxing day on Sunday!
I am still needing 2 more helpers for Field Day on Friday, May 30th.
So far I have the following helpers:
Lindsi Sanor, Tracey Oltman, Mignon Jeppson, Jamie Dye, and Shelley Draghici.
If you are able to help that morning, I would truly appreciate it! Just click on the link:
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FACA822A6F58-field
or call, e-mail, or send a note in with your student. It is a fun day for the kids and parents!
Rendezvous is coming up! Our parent meeting is Friday morning at 8:30am to go over the plan for the day. We are leaving immediately when school begins (our first station begins at 9:30am). Students will need a sack lunch and tennis shoes (please no sandals or flip flops) and weather appropriate clothing. As of now, the weather looks like it will be in the 80's. Very nice!
I like to pack lunches into a couple of large coolers (especially if it will be hot). I have a medium sized one, but if you have a large cooler we could borrow, please let me know. I will have a parent volunteer deliver it to the lunch site for us as we cannot take our lunches on the bus.
Finally, we are down to our last MAP test. We will be taking the language test on Wednesday this week. Please encourage your student to get some rest, eat a good breakfast and be at school that day. Any make-ups will have to be on Thursday as we are gone Friday and all tests must be complete by then.
Have a great weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Monday, May 5, 2014
Testing
Hello families!
We are starting today off with MAP math testing. About half of the students have finished already, and the rest will continue again after lunch. Most are taking their time and I am proud of them for trying their best!
I am still in need of 5 parents to help run a station for Field Day, May 30th in the morning from 9-11:30 am. If you are interested, please sign up at: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FACA822A6F58-field
Next week we have the Rendezvous field trip. It is all day on Friday, May 16th at Meridian Middle School and the first station begins at 9:30 am. So, that means we are loading the busses and leaving right when the bell rings. Please make sure your student is here on time next Friday.
If you are going with us as a chaperone, there will be a parent meeting that morning at 8:30am to give instructions. Please meet in my classroom (room 27) for instructions. All parents must check in at the home school (Discovery) before going to Rendezvous. If you do not have a school visitor badge, you will not be allowed on the Meridian Middle School campus for Rendezvous. I currently have 10 parents going on our field trip, with Mrs. Oltman and Mrs. Staley riding on the bus. (Due to parking issues, we will try to organize carpooling among the parents going.)
Please let me know if you have any questions! We will be sending reminder information home with students next week.
Have a great week!
Mrs. Spenner
We are starting today off with MAP math testing. About half of the students have finished already, and the rest will continue again after lunch. Most are taking their time and I am proud of them for trying their best!
I am still in need of 5 parents to help run a station for Field Day, May 30th in the morning from 9-11:30 am. If you are interested, please sign up at: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FACA822A6F58-field
Next week we have the Rendezvous field trip. It is all day on Friday, May 16th at Meridian Middle School and the first station begins at 9:30 am. So, that means we are loading the busses and leaving right when the bell rings. Please make sure your student is here on time next Friday.
If you are going with us as a chaperone, there will be a parent meeting that morning at 8:30am to give instructions. Please meet in my classroom (room 27) for instructions. All parents must check in at the home school (Discovery) before going to Rendezvous. If you do not have a school visitor badge, you will not be allowed on the Meridian Middle School campus for Rendezvous. I currently have 10 parents going on our field trip, with Mrs. Oltman and Mrs. Staley riding on the bus. (Due to parking issues, we will try to organize carpooling among the parents going.)
Please let me know if you have any questions! We will be sending reminder information home with students next week.
Have a great week!
Mrs. Spenner
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Classification videos and Arbor Day!
Hello families!
We have been working on animal classifications as part of our science unit. The students have been working in groups to make iMovie trailers. Here is our first attempt at our trailers! (Just click on the link below.)
In celebration of Arbor Day tomorrow, Lauren's uncle, Mr. Webb, came in and planted a tree with us. Also, his company donated small Colorado Blue Spruce trees to each of the students in class. (They can easily be planted in a pot for now!) Thank you, Mr. Webb, for the trees!
We are still looking for at least 5 helpers for Field Day. You can sign up to help by going to: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FACA822A6F58-field and let us know you can help!
We are still missing several of the permission slips/$5 for the Rendezvous field trip. These were due today. If your child has not returned theirs (They know if they are missing it!), please send it in with your student tomorrow.
As always, spelling homework is due in the morning. Find 15 spelling words that fit your skill. List 1 skill this week: words ending in -ed (classify by ending sound /d/, /id/, and /t/). List 2 skill this week: prefixes in-, un-, dis-, and mis-.
Have a great night!
Mrs. Spenner
We have been working on animal classifications as part of our science unit. The students have been working in groups to make iMovie trailers. Here is our first attempt at our trailers! (Just click on the link below.)
In celebration of Arbor Day tomorrow, Lauren's uncle, Mr. Webb, came in and planted a tree with us. Also, his company donated small Colorado Blue Spruce trees to each of the students in class. (They can easily be planted in a pot for now!) Thank you, Mr. Webb, for the trees!
We are still looking for at least 5 helpers for Field Day. You can sign up to help by going to: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FACA822A6F58-field and let us know you can help!
We are still missing several of the permission slips/$5 for the Rendezvous field trip. These were due today. If your child has not returned theirs (They know if they are missing it!), please send it in with your student tomorrow.
As always, spelling homework is due in the morning. Find 15 spelling words that fit your skill. List 1 skill this week: words ending in -ed (classify by ending sound /d/, /id/, and /t/). List 2 skill this week: prefixes in-, un-, dis-, and mis-.
Have a great night!
Mrs. Spenner
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Last week of April
Hello families!
I hope you had a great weekend! We are getting ready to start off a new week and we have a lot going on at school.
First off, we said good-bye to Mrs. Rutter on Friday. We had a party for her at the end of the day. The kids (and you) were so generous to bring in books to start a library for Mrs. Rutter. We filled a crate with around 100 books! She wanted to make sure you knew how grateful she was. One of her greatest concerns was how she was going to start up a library of her own and we got her well on her way. Thank you!
We have the week off from testing. (Yea!) We will begin MAP testing next week and test one morning each week for 3 weeks (Reading, Math, and Language). I will let you know the days as soon as they are finalized.
I have updated the "Looking Ahead" page with this week's spelling skill, etc. Let me know if you have any questions. We are going to be finishing up our classification iMovie trailers this week. I hope to get those uploaded next week to share with everyone. They were a fun group activity that the students worked on this past week. I have uploaded a few pictures from the fish release as well. Check them out under the "Trout in the Classroom" link.
We will be taking a break from science now and getting back to Idaho history. We are starting on state symbols. Your student should know most of them by the end of the week!
Have a great week!
Mrs. Spenner
I hope you had a great weekend! We are getting ready to start off a new week and we have a lot going on at school.
First off, we said good-bye to Mrs. Rutter on Friday. We had a party for her at the end of the day. The kids (and you) were so generous to bring in books to start a library for Mrs. Rutter. We filled a crate with around 100 books! She wanted to make sure you knew how grateful she was. One of her greatest concerns was how she was going to start up a library of her own and we got her well on her way. Thank you!
We have the week off from testing. (Yea!) We will begin MAP testing next week and test one morning each week for 3 weeks (Reading, Math, and Language). I will let you know the days as soon as they are finalized.
I have updated the "Looking Ahead" page with this week's spelling skill, etc. Let me know if you have any questions. We are going to be finishing up our classification iMovie trailers this week. I hope to get those uploaded next week to share with everyone. They were a fun group activity that the students worked on this past week. I have uploaded a few pictures from the fish release as well. Check them out under the "Trout in the Classroom" link.
We will be taking a break from science now and getting back to Idaho history. We are starting on state symbols. Your student should know most of them by the end of the week!
Have a great week!
Mrs. Spenner
Monday, April 14, 2014
Mrs. Rutter's last week
Hello families! (There is a lot of info in this post...make sure to scroll all the way to the bottom!)
We had a busy week last week! On Wednesday, Mrs. Worthington came in and taught a "Cookie Mining" lesson to go along with our weekly story, The Gold Rush. Here are some pictures from the activity.
We had a busy week last week! On Wednesday, Mrs. Worthington came in and taught a "Cookie Mining" lesson to go along with our weekly story, The Gold Rush. Here are some pictures from the activity.
Thursday, we released our rainbow trout. We had 46 fish survive and get released into McDevitt pond. We had a great turnout with 17 of our students able to come and fish with us! The pond was stocked and many kids caught fish! Did any of you see the osprey dive and catch a fish too? I took a few pictures on my phone that I will upload to the "Trout in the Classroom" link soon. Did anyone else take pictures? If you did and would like to share them on the blog, just e-mail them to me and I will add them too!
Finally, this is Mrs. Rutter's last week. The kids are pretty bummed about this (me too!) as she has been a great addition to our room! On Friday we will be having a good-bye party for her...shhh...it's a surprise! As a way to help her start her own classroom, if you have any old books that you would like to donate to start a class library for her (any school-aged books) please send them in this week. I would like to have a crate of books for her on Friday to send her off with!
Have a great week!
Mrs. Spenner
Friday, April 4, 2014
Fish!
Hello families!
Check out pictures of today's fish dissection under the "Trout in the Classroom" link on the right side of this blog. We learned a lot today with Mr. Lamansky. Hopefully our room will air out over the weekend because it is pretty fishy smelling right now!
Our little fishies we hatched are growing up and are about ready to be released! We will be meeting after school on Thursday, April 10th, at McDevitt Pond to release our rainbow trout. All are welcome to come! The Idaho Fish and Game fishing trailer will be at the pond as well with fishing gear to borrow and all can fish free, without a permit, during that time. If you or your child have not tried fishing before, I would encourage you to join us! This is not a required activity, but a great educational experience outside of the classroom. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me.
SBAC testing is underway. We took our first 2 tests this week. We will have another test this upcoming Wednesday. Thank you to the students to doing their best during testing!
Next Friday is "Dads and Doughnuts." I hope we can pack the cafeteria before school with all our dads (or dad figures!) for breakfast.
Have a wonderful (and hopefully sunny) weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Check out pictures of today's fish dissection under the "Trout in the Classroom" link on the right side of this blog. We learned a lot today with Mr. Lamansky. Hopefully our room will air out over the weekend because it is pretty fishy smelling right now!
Our little fishies we hatched are growing up and are about ready to be released! We will be meeting after school on Thursday, April 10th, at McDevitt Pond to release our rainbow trout. All are welcome to come! The Idaho Fish and Game fishing trailer will be at the pond as well with fishing gear to borrow and all can fish free, without a permit, during that time. If you or your child have not tried fishing before, I would encourage you to join us! This is not a required activity, but a great educational experience outside of the classroom. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me.
SBAC testing is underway. We took our first 2 tests this week. We will have another test this upcoming Wednesday. Thank you to the students to doing their best during testing!
Next Friday is "Dads and Doughnuts." I hope we can pack the cafeteria before school with all our dads (or dad figures!) for breakfast.
Have a wonderful (and hopefully sunny) weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Spring Break
Hello families!
First off, great job to all the students today on our Idaho History music program! Everyone did a wonderful job on the program. Thanks for all the families that we able to come!
Yesterday we had a Mountain Man assembly with Scott Sorensen. He has 2 books he donated to our classroom, Kipawa River Chronicles and Dear Mr. Mountain Man. If your student is interested in buying either of these books the cost is $7 (if we get at least 4 orders). I will be asking the students after Spring Break about this.
We started working on science boards on the Discovery Education website. Each student was supposed to bring home a letter to you to read explaining the site. Students have an assignment that they need to have completed and submitted to me by April 1. To get to the website go to:
www.discoveryeducation.com
login: (state student ID#)@idaho.discoveryeducation.com
password: meridian2
The directions are listed on each student's individual page. If your student will not have any internet access at home over the break, please let me know so they can work on Friday before break and again on Monday after break to have their board finished. We have worked on them at school for 30 minutes already and everyone had a good start.
I have updated the volunteer calendars for April and May. If I left you off or you need to change your time, please let me know and I will get it updated. I appreciate the helpers!
I hope everyone has a safe and relaxing Spring Break!
Mrs. Spenner
First off, great job to all the students today on our Idaho History music program! Everyone did a wonderful job on the program. Thanks for all the families that we able to come!
Yesterday we had a Mountain Man assembly with Scott Sorensen. He has 2 books he donated to our classroom, Kipawa River Chronicles and Dear Mr. Mountain Man. If your student is interested in buying either of these books the cost is $7 (if we get at least 4 orders). I will be asking the students after Spring Break about this.
We started working on science boards on the Discovery Education website. Each student was supposed to bring home a letter to you to read explaining the site. Students have an assignment that they need to have completed and submitted to me by April 1. To get to the website go to:
www.discoveryeducation.com
login: (state student ID#)@idaho.discoveryeducation.com
password: meridian2
The directions are listed on each student's individual page. If your student will not have any internet access at home over the break, please let me know so they can work on Friday before break and again on Monday after break to have their board finished. We have worked on them at school for 30 minutes already and everyone had a good start.
I have updated the volunteer calendars for April and May. If I left you off or you need to change your time, please let me know and I will get it updated. I appreciate the helpers!
I hope everyone has a safe and relaxing Spring Break!
Mrs. Spenner
Friday, March 14, 2014
Technology Night Tonight!
Hello families!
Tonight is Technology Night at Discovery from 6-8 p.m.! I hope that everyone gets a chance to come. It is always a great family time! (My son, Carter, will even be helping out with the IPads in Mr. Spenner's classroom! He is so excited!)
We have a lot going on next week. Wednesday morning will be our dress rehearsal for our music program. Wednesday afternoon will be the 4th grade Mountain Man assembly with Scott Sorensen. On Thursday morning, we will be performing our Idaho music program for parents and families at 9:30 a.m. in the gym. I hope that everyone will be able to make it! The students have been working hard learning songs, dances, and even poetry to prepare.
If your student will be gone next Friday or leaving early for Spring Break, please let me know ahead of time so that we can adjust assessments accordingly. We don't want anyone making up assessments after a week off!
The Roaring Readers form is due today. If your student has read an additional 600 minutes (above the 400 monthly minutes) for a free Roaring Springs pass, please get them turned into me A.S.A.P. I currently have forms turned in from 7 students to earn a free pass. This is not required, but it is a great reward for those that read extra!
Finally, the Book Fair runs all next week. We will be going as a class on Tuesday morning. Here is a note from Mrs. Campbell:
Thursday: 8:30 am to 10:30 am, Sharp!
Tonight is Technology Night at Discovery from 6-8 p.m.! I hope that everyone gets a chance to come. It is always a great family time! (My son, Carter, will even be helping out with the IPads in Mr. Spenner's classroom! He is so excited!)
We have a lot going on next week. Wednesday morning will be our dress rehearsal for our music program. Wednesday afternoon will be the 4th grade Mountain Man assembly with Scott Sorensen. On Thursday morning, we will be performing our Idaho music program for parents and families at 9:30 a.m. in the gym. I hope that everyone will be able to make it! The students have been working hard learning songs, dances, and even poetry to prepare.
If your student will be gone next Friday or leaving early for Spring Break, please let me know ahead of time so that we can adjust assessments accordingly. We don't want anyone making up assessments after a week off!
The Roaring Readers form is due today. If your student has read an additional 600 minutes (above the 400 monthly minutes) for a free Roaring Springs pass, please get them turned into me A.S.A.P. I currently have forms turned in from 7 students to earn a free pass. This is not required, but it is a great reward for those that read extra!
Finally, the Book Fair runs all next week. We will be going as a class on Tuesday morning. Here is a note from Mrs. Campbell:
BOOK
FAIR MASTER the Art of READING
March 17th through 20th
Monday: 10:30 am to 4:00 pm
Tuesday: 8:30 am to 4:00 pm
Wednesday – Late Night/Art Walk: 8:30 am to 7:30 pm, Sharp!
Book Fair closes promptly at 10:30 am
All proceeds to benefit the Discovery
Elementary Library!
Have a great weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Monday, March 10, 2014
Happy Monday!
Hello families!
Congratulations to the speed jumpers that participated in our district speed jump competition last Friday. I enjoyed seeing all the kids out cheering our Discovery team on! Great job, Ashtyn and Tyler R., for representing our school at the competition!
Tomorrow, Tuesday March 11, is the Levy Election for our school district. Please make sure to vote at your local polling location. For more information from the district, click on the following link: http://www.meridianschools.org/Lists/News%20Blog/DispForm.aspx?ID=191&RootFolder=%2FLists%2FNews%20Blog.
Friday is Technology Night! It is a great family night and I hope to see everyone there!
Next Thursday is our 4th grade music program. We will perform at 9:30am. The kids have been working hard for months on this great Idaho History program!
I hope you have a wonderful day!
Mrs. Spenner
A note from Mr. Johnson (our Health teacher)...
Congratulations to the speed jumpers that participated in our district speed jump competition last Friday. I enjoyed seeing all the kids out cheering our Discovery team on! Great job, Ashtyn and Tyler R., for representing our school at the competition!
Tomorrow, Tuesday March 11, is the Levy Election for our school district. Please make sure to vote at your local polling location. For more information from the district, click on the following link: http://www.meridianschools.org/Lists/News%20Blog/DispForm.aspx?ID=191&RootFolder=%2FLists%2FNews%20Blog.
Friday is Technology Night! It is a great family night and I hope to see everyone there!
Next Thursday is our 4th grade music program. We will perform at 9:30am. The kids have been working hard for months on this great Idaho History program!
I hope you have a wonderful day!
Mrs. Spenner
A note from Mr. Johnson (our Health teacher)...
Dear Parent/Guardian,
In our last trimester of the school year, health teachers throughout the district get the opportunity to teach students about the dangers of drugs and how they affect our overall health. This unit's overall goal is not only to inform students about the dangers of drugs, but to help students make healthy choices and decisions when it comes to their overall health. We as health educators know the sensitivity of this subject, but understand it is necessary in order to keep our youth drug free.
At anytime, if you feel like this is something you do not want your child learning in class, please feel free to contact me and we can discuss some other alternatives to this matter. We want all students and parents to know our pledge and example to being a drug free school. Again, if you have any questions, feel free to email me at johnson.cory@meridianschools.org.
Thank you for your support!
Respectfully,
Cory Johnson M.Ed
Discovery Elementary PE/Health Teacher
Ponderosa Elementary Health Teacher
Ustick Elementary Health Teacher
After School Program Administrator
Friday, February 28, 2014
End of Trimester 2
Hello families!
I hope you are enjoying the day off today! I am at school working on report cards that will be sent home next Thursday, March 6th. We have a lot going on this month! Please take a look at the upcoming events to keep track of all the events.
Trading Post will be held this Thursday (March 6th). If your student has earned at least 45 classroom dollars this trimester, they can participate.
I have updated the Volunteer Calendar, Lunch Menu, and Looking Ahead.... Check it out!
Have a wonderful weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
I hope you are enjoying the day off today! I am at school working on report cards that will be sent home next Thursday, March 6th. We have a lot going on this month! Please take a look at the upcoming events to keep track of all the events.
Trading Post will be held this Thursday (March 6th). If your student has earned at least 45 classroom dollars this trimester, they can participate.
I have updated the Volunteer Calendar, Lunch Menu, and Looking Ahead.... Check it out!
Have a wonderful weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
A Note from the PTA...
Dear
Parents,
Technology
Night is on Friday, March 14th from 6-8. As part of the raffle drawing, we would like
you to donate items or gift cards to be put into baskets. Each grade level is assigned a theme, but if
you find something fun that would work well in another grade level’s basket,
feel free to send it in. We will accept donations March 3rd through the 10th.
Kindergarten: Art and Crafts (markers, crayons, paper,
scissors, stamps, etc.)
1st grade: Family
Fun Night
(puzzles, books, movies, games, treats, etc.)
2nd grade: Sports (balls, jump ropes, gear from
your favorite team, sports drinks, snacks, etc.)
3rd grade: Life is
a Beach
(beach towels, sand toys, sunglasses, swimming goggles, etc.)
4th grade: Kitchen
basket
(baking pans, baking mixes, hot pads, cookbooks, seasonings, etc.)
5th grade: Springtime
fun (bubbles,
picnic supplies, outdoor toys, kites, sidewalk chalk, etc.)
If
you have any questions, please contact:
Shuree Chrysler
288-5480
Thank
You!
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Recorder orders and class pictures
Hello families!
Class picture order forms were sent home today. Pictures will be Wednesday, March 5th. Everyone will be in this picture and our class will be going at the start of the day, so please be on time. :)
If you would like to purchase a picture, the cost is $8.50 and checks can be made out to "Parker Portraits." Individual pictures are also available that day and information was sent home today as well.
Ms. Bickford, our music teacher, sent home 2 letters today as well. The first is about ordering recorders for her upcoming rhythm unit. She needs the forms returned by next Thursday regardless if you are ordering or not so she has a complete count. She also wanted you to be aware of the upcoming 4th grade program on March 20th at 9:30 am in the gym. The students have been working hard on singing and dancing to prepare. It will be a great program!
We need your help! As we begin to prepare for our upcoming Rendezvous field trip (Friday, May 16th), we are in need of toilet paper rolls for a craft. Actually, we need about 400 of them! If you have any rolls at home, please send them in...1...2...or 10 at a time! We will be working on the craft in the next few weeks. Thanks!
Have a great evening!
Mrs. Spenner
Friday, February 14, 2014
Happy Valentine's Day
Hello families!
Happy Valentine's Day to everyone! I had such nice cards to read today and a wonderful class card using similies that the students made for me with our student teacher. Thank you! Also, thanks to our wonderful parents who provided treats for our party!
Today was the end of White Ribbon Week. I hope that the kids enjoyed the ability assembly this morning. It was a great group that came to our school to talk about overcoming obsticals with a positive attitude.
We do not have school on Monday (President's Day). I told the kids it was my valentine gift to them! ;) I hope that everyone enjoys the day off!
Have a wonderful weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Happy Valentine's Day to everyone! I had such nice cards to read today and a wonderful class card using similies that the students made for me with our student teacher. Thank you! Also, thanks to our wonderful parents who provided treats for our party!
Today was the end of White Ribbon Week. I hope that the kids enjoyed the ability assembly this morning. It was a great group that came to our school to talk about overcoming obsticals with a positive attitude.
We do not have school on Monday (President's Day). I told the kids it was my valentine gift to them! ;) I hope that everyone enjoys the day off!
Have a wonderful weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Thursday, February 6, 2014
MAP testing and Valentine party
Hello families!
We have now completed our MAP testing! (We do have a student or two to complete make-up tests, but overall, the class is finished.) The students are able to see how they are doing on meeting their spring goal. Most are making progress which is great!
Our class Valentine's Day party is next Friday from 2:45-3:45pm. If you would like to sign up to help with treats, below is a link to help. Thank you in advance!
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FACA822A6F58-valentine.
Next week is "White Ribbon Week." A note was sent home today explaining what we will be talking about next week. We are having dress-up days next week. The schedule is:
Monday: "Let's get active!" Students wear their favorite active wear.
Tuesday: "Inside out day" Students wear clothes inside out.
Wednesday: "It's a white out!" Students wear white.
Thursday: "Hat's off to being real." Students can wear their favorite hat.
Friday: "We love being kind online!" Students wear red.
There is also a class being offered to parents from Officer Gomez on Wednesday, February 19th from 5:00-6:00pm at Discovery.
The students are getting to know our new student teacher, Mrs. Rutter. She would like to introduce herself to you as well. Here is a note from her....
Hello!
Have a great night!
Mrs. Spenner
We have now completed our MAP testing! (We do have a student or two to complete make-up tests, but overall, the class is finished.) The students are able to see how they are doing on meeting their spring goal. Most are making progress which is great!
Our class Valentine's Day party is next Friday from 2:45-3:45pm. If you would like to sign up to help with treats, below is a link to help. Thank you in advance!
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FACA822A6F58-valentine.
Next week is "White Ribbon Week." A note was sent home today explaining what we will be talking about next week. We are having dress-up days next week. The schedule is:
Monday: "Let's get active!" Students wear their favorite active wear.
Tuesday: "Inside out day" Students wear clothes inside out.
Wednesday: "It's a white out!" Students wear white.
Thursday: "Hat's off to being real." Students can wear their favorite hat.
Friday: "We love being kind online!" Students wear red.
There is also a class being offered to parents from Officer Gomez on Wednesday, February 19th from 5:00-6:00pm at Discovery.
The students are getting to know our new student teacher, Mrs. Rutter. She would like to introduce herself to you as well. Here is a note from her....
Hello!
My name is Mallory Rutter, and I am the new student teacher in your student's classroom! I will be here for a fun 10 weeks, and I am so excited to learn with your children.
A little about me...I am a Boise native, born and raised! However, I have been living in Utah for almost 5 years attending BYU-Provo. My husband graduated in December from BYU and got a job in downtown Boise, so here we are! I am working with BYU and BSU to fulfill my student teaching requirements and will graduate in the end of April.
I love boating (especially in McCall), sign language, ice cream, and teaching spinning (cycling...not twirling in circles) classes. I have been married a year and a half, and life is GREAT. Mr. Rutter is an animated, excited, positive storyteller who keeps me laughing!
I decided to go into teaching after spending a summer in Fiji working in deaf schools. I learned about the importance of literacy and the future that comes with a full education. I am so excited to share my passion with this class and my own future classroom.
Thank you for letting me help your students, and I look forward to working with you!
Mallory Rutter
Have a great night!
Mrs. Spenner
Friday, January 31, 2014
New student teacher
Hello families!
I just found out last night that we will be getting a student teacher in our classroom beginning on Monday morning! Her name is Mallory Rutter and she is a student at BYU. We will have her in our room until mid-April. I have not met with her yet, but have talked to her over the phone and I know she is excited to be a part of our classroom! I have asked her to write an introduction letter to parents that I will be e-mailing out next week.
On Monday, our January reading calendars are due. Many of the students want to earn a "Roaring Reader" pass, but they must complete their 400 minutes of reading for homework before they can add additional minutes for the Roaring Springs pass. (An additional 600 minutes are needed for the pass by March 14.)
The 2nd trimester is quickly coming to an end. We are finishing up our preposition unit in language and space unit for science this next week and then will go back to history in the afternoons to finish up the 3 final weeks of the trimester.
I have updated the volunteer calendar. Check it out! If you would like to be added to the list, or need to change your time, just e-mail me to let me know!
Finally, we have a Valentine's Day party coming up on Friday, Feb. 14th. It will be from 2:45-3:45p.m. We will be watching a movie, reading our Valentine cards, and eating during that time. I will send out a sign-up e-mail next week to help with the food. We will be making our valentine bags in class the week of Valentine's Day. I sent home a class list on bright RED paper if students would like to bring in any valentines cards for the class.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
I just found out last night that we will be getting a student teacher in our classroom beginning on Monday morning! Her name is Mallory Rutter and she is a student at BYU. We will have her in our room until mid-April. I have not met with her yet, but have talked to her over the phone and I know she is excited to be a part of our classroom! I have asked her to write an introduction letter to parents that I will be e-mailing out next week.
On Monday, our January reading calendars are due. Many of the students want to earn a "Roaring Reader" pass, but they must complete their 400 minutes of reading for homework before they can add additional minutes for the Roaring Springs pass. (An additional 600 minutes are needed for the pass by March 14.)
The 2nd trimester is quickly coming to an end. We are finishing up our preposition unit in language and space unit for science this next week and then will go back to history in the afternoons to finish up the 3 final weeks of the trimester.
I have updated the volunteer calendar. Check it out! If you would like to be added to the list, or need to change your time, just e-mail me to let me know!
Finally, we have a Valentine's Day party coming up on Friday, Feb. 14th. It will be from 2:45-3:45p.m. We will be watching a movie, reading our Valentine cards, and eating during that time. I will send out a sign-up e-mail next week to help with the food. We will be making our valentine bags in class the week of Valentine's Day. I sent home a class list on bright RED paper if students would like to bring in any valentines cards for the class.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Monday, January 27, 2014
The fish are hatching!
Hello families!
It has been pretty exciting around our classroom! The fish came last week and are already beginning to hatch! The eggs have never hatched this quickly. (They usually take a week or two.) I have taken a few pictures and uploaded them to the "Trout in the Classroom" link on the right-hand side of the page for you to take a look at. If you get a chance to stop by in the next couple of months, you are welcome to take a look at our new "babies!"
I have updated the "Looking Ahead" link as well with the week's activities. Please note we have another MAP test this Wednesday for math. We will be testing in the morning again.
Have a great night!
Mrs. Spenner
It has been pretty exciting around our classroom! The fish came last week and are already beginning to hatch! The eggs have never hatched this quickly. (They usually take a week or two.) I have taken a few pictures and uploaded them to the "Trout in the Classroom" link on the right-hand side of the page for you to take a look at. If you get a chance to stop by in the next couple of months, you are welcome to take a look at our new "babies!"
I have updated the "Looking Ahead" link as well with the week's activities. Please note we have another MAP test this Wednesday for math. We will be testing in the morning again.
Have a great night!
Mrs. Spenner
Friday, January 17, 2014
The Fish Are Coming!
Hello families!
We have had a busy week, but it is time for a little relaxing! I hope everyone will enjoy their time off on Monday!
We are getting used to the new board and many of the students have had a chance to use it on their own. (They are teaching me new things every day!)
This upcoming Wednesday, the students will be meeting our class biologist, Tony Lamansky. He will be bringing in our rainbow trout eggs. They take about a week-2 weeks to hatch. Families are welcome to stop by and check on the progress of our tank. I will try to update the "Trout in the Classroom" link with pictures. We will have the fish until mid-April. I will send out release information after spring break.
There has been a lot of sickness going around. I hope that everyone will have a chance to recover over the long break and come back healthy and ready to learn! MAP testing begins next Wednesday. The 4th grade classrooms will be testing over the next 3 Wednesdays. Please help your child to get a good night's rest and a healthy breakfast before coming to school those days! (Well, and every day, too!)
Have a wonderful weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
We have had a busy week, but it is time for a little relaxing! I hope everyone will enjoy their time off on Monday!
We are getting used to the new board and many of the students have had a chance to use it on their own. (They are teaching me new things every day!)
This upcoming Wednesday, the students will be meeting our class biologist, Tony Lamansky. He will be bringing in our rainbow trout eggs. They take about a week-2 weeks to hatch. Families are welcome to stop by and check on the progress of our tank. I will try to update the "Trout in the Classroom" link with pictures. We will have the fish until mid-April. I will send out release information after spring break.
There has been a lot of sickness going around. I hope that everyone will have a chance to recover over the long break and come back healthy and ready to learn! MAP testing begins next Wednesday. The 4th grade classrooms will be testing over the next 3 Wednesdays. Please help your child to get a good night's rest and a healthy breakfast before coming to school those days! (Well, and every day, too!)
Have a wonderful weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Thursday, January 9, 2014
Promethean Board
Hello families!
We are now back into the swing of things at school and we have had a busy week. We are working on a 5 paragraph essay for Idaho History. We have completed the first 4 paragraphs as a class. If you student does not have this complete, they are supposed to be working on it at home. We have spent close to 3 hours on it already at school this week! Students will write the conclusion on Monday, then we will peer-edit, and finally type up our final copy to publish.
There have been a lot of sick kiddos this week. Make sure your student is getting plenty of rest, drinking lots of water, and washing their hands at home frequently. I am hoping we can stop the germs from spreading! We do have winter MAP testing beginning on an 22nd, so I am hoping everyone is well by then.
The big news of the week is that we are getting a Promethean Board (interactive board) for our classroom...hopefully Friday! It will be really exciting to add that to all the technology in our room! I'm sure your student will tell you all about it! :)
Finally, if you brought treats to our Christmas party in a blue Albertsons re-usable bag, I have your bag in our room. Just let me know if it's yours and I will send it home with your student.
Have a great weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
We are now back into the swing of things at school and we have had a busy week. We are working on a 5 paragraph essay for Idaho History. We have completed the first 4 paragraphs as a class. If you student does not have this complete, they are supposed to be working on it at home. We have spent close to 3 hours on it already at school this week! Students will write the conclusion on Monday, then we will peer-edit, and finally type up our final copy to publish.
There have been a lot of sick kiddos this week. Make sure your student is getting plenty of rest, drinking lots of water, and washing their hands at home frequently. I am hoping we can stop the germs from spreading! We do have winter MAP testing beginning on an 22nd, so I am hoping everyone is well by then.
The big news of the week is that we are getting a Promethean Board (interactive board) for our classroom...hopefully Friday! It will be really exciting to add that to all the technology in our room! I'm sure your student will tell you all about it! :)
Finally, if you brought treats to our Christmas party in a blue Albertsons re-usable bag, I have your bag in our room. Just let me know if it's yours and I will send it home with your student.
Have a great weekend!
Mrs. Spenner
Saturday, January 4, 2014
THANK YOU!!
Dear Families,
Thank you so much for your kindness! The pencil sharpener is a WONDERFUL addition to our classroom!! On top of that, many of you shared treats and gifts with me and I want you each to know how much I appreciate everything! You are all wonderful families and I am blessed to share your kids with you this year!
Mrs. Spenner
Thank you so much for your kindness! The pencil sharpener is a WONDERFUL addition to our classroom!! On top of that, many of you shared treats and gifts with me and I want you each to know how much I appreciate everything! You are all wonderful families and I am blessed to share your kids with you this year!
Mrs. Spenner
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