Forman's Friends

Supplies for 2009-2010

I will call you once special education class assignments are finalized to confirm that your child is in my class.

You will find a supply list for your child's homeroom teacher on that teacher's blog.   I will make use of some of those supplies and request a few additional supplies to support your child in our classroom.  (There are certain basic things that should be in each classroom so that children feel at home in both spaces.)

• Purple plastic folder with pockets (for home/school communication)
• Crayons (12 or 24 count)
• Colored pencils (twistables are best, but not required)

• Green folder (paper or plastic) with pockets

• Plastic pencil box

Wish list (optional):

• Tissues
• Copy paper (1 ream, white)

Thank you!

Thank you!

Please join me in extending a special thank-you to Meg Levin, who lovingly supported our class as Room-Mother.  She went above and beyond the call of duty, and always shared her heart and smile.

Report Card Information

First and second grade teachers are now required to use the new standards-based report card.  For academics, your child's grade is given in number ratings (1, 2, or 3) on  performance of grade-level standards.  The number ratings reflect where your child is relative to the grade-level curriculum.

This change is significant for special education students as these ratings do not necessarily show progress on IEP goals, which always supercede these standards.  The quarterly Progress Report, that you will continue to receive with each report card, gives you more specific information on student success in targeted goals and objectives. 

Bottom line--your child may be making significant strides in reading, writing, or math, but it may not be evident to you from this new report card format.  Look at the progress report to get this information. 

Most importantly, continue to praise progress and celebrate your child.  Each small step contributes to the journey.  Stay positive and be encouraging!

Nutrition in the Classroom

In terms of food, we allow only healthy snacks in the classroom—for example, peanut butter crackers, low-sugar granola bars, fruit, nuts, vegetables, pretzels, etc.  We have found that high sugar has a negative impact on focus and behavior in the classroom.  Please support your child in making wise food choices.

Favorite Websites

The following is a listing of great websites to practice skills:

General:

Math and Language Arts Skill Builders

Mr. Nussbaum

Introduction to Touch Typing

Math:

Harcourt Math - Grade 2

Harcourt Math - Grade 3

Virtual Manipulatives

Just in Time

Stop the Clock

Math Games

More Math Practice

Reading:

Phonics Practice

C-V-C Maker

Clifford Interactive Storybook

Starfall

Storyline

Reading Readiness Skills and More

Sight Word Activities