Thank You Sailor Families!
June 24, 2015
Dear Sailor Families,
Wow! It is hard to believe that this year is coming to an end. I have truly loved working with you and your children this year! In 9 years of teaching, this has been one of my favorite groups. J They are kind, sweet, and funny kids that respect and help each other. They have made SO much progress in reading, writing, and math… but what matters most to me is that they honor the lessons of friendliness, kindness, and respect as they travel through life. These are GREAT kids and I know they will continue to thrive in the years ahead!
I am SO VERY grateful for the love and support you have shown to me this year. I absolutely loved the gift card bouquet with their faces on it! I told the kids this morning that I couldn’t stop smiling last night. Thank you so much for all of your support this year; I could not have asked for better families to work with! Your commitment to your children is evident and appreciated!
You may know that I have accepted a literacy specialist position here at Alston Ridge. I am fortunate that I am able to move forward with my career and continue to work at this wonderful school! My new office will be located in the beginning of the K-1 hallway (where Ms. Thomas’ office is now). I told the kids they are welcome to visit in the mornings! Since I will be working with students of all ages, I may be working with your child again soon. :)
Have a great summer! Keep in touch!
Mrs. Carrie Joyce
[email protected]
Dear Sailor Families,
Wow! It is hard to believe that this year is coming to an end. I have truly loved working with you and your children this year! In 9 years of teaching, this has been one of my favorite groups. J They are kind, sweet, and funny kids that respect and help each other. They have made SO much progress in reading, writing, and math… but what matters most to me is that they honor the lessons of friendliness, kindness, and respect as they travel through life. These are GREAT kids and I know they will continue to thrive in the years ahead!
I am SO VERY grateful for the love and support you have shown to me this year. I absolutely loved the gift card bouquet with their faces on it! I told the kids this morning that I couldn’t stop smiling last night. Thank you so much for all of your support this year; I could not have asked for better families to work with! Your commitment to your children is evident and appreciated!
You may know that I have accepted a literacy specialist position here at Alston Ridge. I am fortunate that I am able to move forward with my career and continue to work at this wonderful school! My new office will be located in the beginning of the K-1 hallway (where Ms. Thomas’ office is now). I told the kids they are welcome to visit in the mornings! Since I will be working with students of all ages, I may be working with your child again soon. :)
Have a great summer! Keep in touch!
Mrs. Carrie Joyce
[email protected]
ABC Countdown Fun
Career Day was a success! :)
5/12/2015
Thank you so much for all of the sweet cards and gift cards for last week's Teacher Appreciation Friday! It really made my week! We will LOVE shopping for the baby and going out to eat this week! Thank you, thank you!
A few important notes:
*We just got word that Field Day (previously scheduled for 5/15/2015) has been canceled. It will be rescheduled ASAP. A few reminders for students on field day: wear sneakers and comfortable clothes, wear sunscreen (teachers are not allowed to apply it here at school), bring a water bottle, and bring a change of clothes since there are a few water activities. Parents are absolutely invited to come cheer on the sailors!
*Please send your $2 for our kindergarten celebration "costumes" by Friday, May 15th. We are getting sunglasses and top hats to go with a few of our songs. :) Our performance is Tuesday, June 23rd at 2:30 PM and each child has 3 tickets to give out! Save the date; it will be a wonderful show!
*Interims will go home Friday, May 15th. If you have any questions, please let me know.
*Our make-up Saturdays are 5/16 (half-day) and 5/30 (full-day). I recommend sending in a lunch on 5/16 (instead of just a snack) because we miss our usual lunch time and the kids typically get hungry if they just eat a snack.
*Monday, May 25th we do not have school for Memorial Day.
Our weekly newsletter has been posted.
Have a great week!
Mrs. Joyce
A few important notes:
*We just got word that Field Day (previously scheduled for 5/15/2015) has been canceled. It will be rescheduled ASAP. A few reminders for students on field day: wear sneakers and comfortable clothes, wear sunscreen (teachers are not allowed to apply it here at school), bring a water bottle, and bring a change of clothes since there are a few water activities. Parents are absolutely invited to come cheer on the sailors!
*Please send your $2 for our kindergarten celebration "costumes" by Friday, May 15th. We are getting sunglasses and top hats to go with a few of our songs. :) Our performance is Tuesday, June 23rd at 2:30 PM and each child has 3 tickets to give out! Save the date; it will be a wonderful show!
*Interims will go home Friday, May 15th. If you have any questions, please let me know.
*Our make-up Saturdays are 5/16 (half-day) and 5/30 (full-day). I recommend sending in a lunch on 5/16 (instead of just a snack) because we miss our usual lunch time and the kids typically get hungry if they just eat a snack.
*Monday, May 25th we do not have school for Memorial Day.
Our weekly newsletter has been posted.
Have a great week!
Mrs. Joyce
Wish List
Our class could really use cardstock (white and colored) for our center activities. We could also use Sharpies (any size or any color).
Some exciting personal news....
I am excited to share that my husband and I are expecting a baby boy in October! :) You have all been such wonderful families this year and I wanted to let you know! (The kids do not know, but I imagine they will begin guessing as the year continues! :) I will leave the sharing of this information to you!)
Thanks for all of your support and all that you do! Mrs. Joyce |
4/21/2015
We have 2 chaperone slots open for our April 28th trip to see the Jungle Book at the Carolina Theater. We are leaving the school at 10:30 and our show will begin at 11:20. The chaperone charge for this field trip is $8.00 and you can pay online via our school's online payment system. If you would like to join us on this date, please email me at [email protected]. Please pack a lunch (including a drink) for your child on 4/28 because the cafeteria will be closed when we return.
Our very last field trip of the year will be on May 8 to the Durham Life and Science Museum. We encourage as many parents to join as possible! Please sign up if you are able to make it on May 8th. The kids LOVE this field trip. :) The chaperone charge for this field trip is $7.00 and you can use our school's online payment system to pay in advance. We will be leaving school at 9:30 to arrive at the museum around 10:00 and we will leave the museum at 1:00 to be back to the school by 1:30. We will have a picnic lunch at the school after we return. Please pack a lunch (with a drink) on this day because the cafeteria will be closed when we return.
I am also looking for a volunteer to send in juice boxes (20) and a snack for students to eat while at the museum (individually wrapped bags of pretzels, for example). I have added a slot for juice boxes and a snack in case you cannot come but would be willing to donate a drink or snack for our kids!
Please visit the sign up link to join us on this trip! Thanks SO much for coming!!!! http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c4ea4ac2babf94-field
**Let me know if you have any questions! This quarter is VERY busy (aren't they all!) so please continue to check the website for important dates this quarter. We also have spring pictures on 5/7 and save the date for our kindergarten end of the year celebration performance on June 23 (more information to follow).
Have a great week!
Mrs. Joyce
Our very last field trip of the year will be on May 8 to the Durham Life and Science Museum. We encourage as many parents to join as possible! Please sign up if you are able to make it on May 8th. The kids LOVE this field trip. :) The chaperone charge for this field trip is $7.00 and you can use our school's online payment system to pay in advance. We will be leaving school at 9:30 to arrive at the museum around 10:00 and we will leave the museum at 1:00 to be back to the school by 1:30. We will have a picnic lunch at the school after we return. Please pack a lunch (with a drink) on this day because the cafeteria will be closed when we return.
I am also looking for a volunteer to send in juice boxes (20) and a snack for students to eat while at the museum (individually wrapped bags of pretzels, for example). I have added a slot for juice boxes and a snack in case you cannot come but would be willing to donate a drink or snack for our kids!
Please visit the sign up link to join us on this trip! Thanks SO much for coming!!!! http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c4ea4ac2babf94-field
**Let me know if you have any questions! This quarter is VERY busy (aren't they all!) so please continue to check the website for important dates this quarter. We also have spring pictures on 5/7 and save the date for our kindergarten end of the year celebration performance on June 23 (more information to follow).
Have a great week!
Mrs. Joyce
4/15/2015: Welcome to 4th Quarter!
It's hard to believe we are heading into the fourth and final quarter! I hope the sailors had a fun and restful break! I missed them and look forward to seeing them next week!
Upcoming Important Dates:
4/28: Jungle Book Field Trip
5/7: Spring Pictures
5/8: Durham Life & Science Museum Field Trip (see chaperone sign up below!)
5/14 or 5/15: Field Day
5/16: Saturday School Makeup (Early Release)
5/25: Memorial Day (No School)
5/30: Saturday School Makeup (Full Day)
6/23: End of the year kindergarten celebration (time TBD)
6/30: Report Cards; Last Day of School
Please join us on May 8th! Below is a sign up for our last field trip of the year. The more chaperones that we have, the better! It is a big place. :)
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c4ea4ac2babf94-field
Homework for Q4 has been posted under the "homework" tab.
Upcoming Curriculum Overview:
Writing: We will be studying poetry in April since it is National Poetry Month. In May, the students will be working hard on an animal research project. In June, we will be spiraling each type of writing that we've learned (narrative, informational, and opinion writing). Reinforce correct letter formation at home and help your child remember capital letters, punctuation, and remind them to spell words the best they can! :)
Math: We will be decomposing numbers, adding & subtracting, and begin a measuring unit. Due to the snow days last quarter, we will review partners of 10 (9+__=10) and practice our +/- math facts to 5 fluently. Something very tricky at the end of the year is reverse equations. They add this to the Wake County Summative Math Assessment and it is a hard skill for our little friends! Instead of 2 + 3 = _____? They may ask, 5 = 3 + _____? and sometimes, they include missing addends ____ + 5 = 5? We will begin teaching this next month, but I wanted to give you a heads up on what is to come! Our sailors love math centers and math games!
Reading: We will be focusing on some trickier phonics rules this quarter, such as: "When 2 vowels go walking, the first one does the talking, say its' LONG name," silent magic e, and some trickier digraphs. By now, the kids should know that each vowel has 2 sounds (and if one doesn't work, they should flip the sound). We will keep practicing this during center time! Additionally, the hardest reading standard for kindergartners this quarter is RIK.8 - give reasons an author gives to support points in a text. For example, Question: "Why does the author like spring?" Answer: "Because he likes to play in rain puddles and watch flowers grow." We will continue small reading groups and encourage a lot of independent reading this quarter!
Have a wonderful weekend and I am so excited to see the kids next week!
Mrs. Joyce
Upcoming Important Dates:
4/28: Jungle Book Field Trip
5/7: Spring Pictures
5/8: Durham Life & Science Museum Field Trip (see chaperone sign up below!)
5/14 or 5/15: Field Day
5/16: Saturday School Makeup (Early Release)
5/25: Memorial Day (No School)
5/30: Saturday School Makeup (Full Day)
6/23: End of the year kindergarten celebration (time TBD)
6/30: Report Cards; Last Day of School
Please join us on May 8th! Below is a sign up for our last field trip of the year. The more chaperones that we have, the better! It is a big place. :)
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c4ea4ac2babf94-field
Homework for Q4 has been posted under the "homework" tab.
Upcoming Curriculum Overview:
Writing: We will be studying poetry in April since it is National Poetry Month. In May, the students will be working hard on an animal research project. In June, we will be spiraling each type of writing that we've learned (narrative, informational, and opinion writing). Reinforce correct letter formation at home and help your child remember capital letters, punctuation, and remind them to spell words the best they can! :)
Math: We will be decomposing numbers, adding & subtracting, and begin a measuring unit. Due to the snow days last quarter, we will review partners of 10 (9+__=10) and practice our +/- math facts to 5 fluently. Something very tricky at the end of the year is reverse equations. They add this to the Wake County Summative Math Assessment and it is a hard skill for our little friends! Instead of 2 + 3 = _____? They may ask, 5 = 3 + _____? and sometimes, they include missing addends ____ + 5 = 5? We will begin teaching this next month, but I wanted to give you a heads up on what is to come! Our sailors love math centers and math games!
Reading: We will be focusing on some trickier phonics rules this quarter, such as: "When 2 vowels go walking, the first one does the talking, say its' LONG name," silent magic e, and some trickier digraphs. By now, the kids should know that each vowel has 2 sounds (and if one doesn't work, they should flip the sound). We will keep practicing this during center time! Additionally, the hardest reading standard for kindergartners this quarter is RIK.8 - give reasons an author gives to support points in a text. For example, Question: "Why does the author like spring?" Answer: "Because he likes to play in rain puddles and watch flowers grow." We will continue small reading groups and encourage a lot of independent reading this quarter!
Have a wonderful weekend and I am so excited to see the kids next week!
Mrs. Joyce
q4_standards_for_parents.docx | |
File Size: | 352 kb |
File Type: | docx |
3/18/2015 classroom updates
Hello! I hope everyone is doing well!!
Just a reminder: We are making a class book and it will be published. You DO NOT need to order this book, BUT, I do need the form returned with your signature on the bottom. Check "NO" that you do not want the book, sign it, and please return it as soon as you can. Right now we only have 3 responses so we will be unable to do the project unless all forms are returned by 3/20. If we can do the project, I will purchase one so we have one for our classroom. Thanks so much for returning the forms as soon as possible! :)
We will collect book donations until 3/19 for students in Wake County with limited access to books. This donation drive began during Read Across America Week. If you have any gently used books you do not want/need anymore, please send in by 3/19. Alston Ridge is still collecting for the animal shelter as well.
The field trip has been officially moved to 4/28. We will be going to the same theater and seeing The Jungle Book! Please pack a lunch and two snacks on this day. We will eat a small snack before we go to the theater since the show does not start until 11:20 and this is our normal lunch time. We will eat in our classroom when we return from the trip.
Thank you so much! Have a wonderful day!
Mrs. Joyce
Just a reminder: We are making a class book and it will be published. You DO NOT need to order this book, BUT, I do need the form returned with your signature on the bottom. Check "NO" that you do not want the book, sign it, and please return it as soon as you can. Right now we only have 3 responses so we will be unable to do the project unless all forms are returned by 3/20. If we can do the project, I will purchase one so we have one for our classroom. Thanks so much for returning the forms as soon as possible! :)
We will collect book donations until 3/19 for students in Wake County with limited access to books. This donation drive began during Read Across America Week. If you have any gently used books you do not want/need anymore, please send in by 3/19. Alston Ridge is still collecting for the animal shelter as well.
The field trip has been officially moved to 4/28. We will be going to the same theater and seeing The Jungle Book! Please pack a lunch and two snacks on this day. We will eat a small snack before we go to the theater since the show does not start until 11:20 and this is our normal lunch time. We will eat in our classroom when we return from the trip.
Thank you so much! Have a wonderful day!
Mrs. Joyce
Read Across America
Read Across America Update: The school is postponing most school-wide events until next week (for example, the school-wide bingo, DEAR, and crazy sock day). HOWEVER, kindergarten will still follow the schedule below. Alston Ridge has NOT moved our kindergarten parade or kindergarten reading celebration. Our parade is still this Wednesday, March 4. If students would like to participate in crazy sock day two weeks in a row, they absolutely can :) but we will continue to follow the schedule below this week. Participate in these events as you see fit. I'm sorry it has been so confusing with all of the snow days!!
Pictures: Since the school has not yet been able to make concrete plans for picture retakes, all picture money will be sent home to you by Friday. I would recommend keeping this on your refrigerator until they reschedule a date. Hopefully, they will be able to reschedule this ASAP.
Field trip: We are working on an alternate field trip at this time. More details will be sent home as soon as we make sure we have the buses for this event.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
READ ACROSS AMERICA WEEK
This is a quick outline of Alston Ridge events for the week. (Read Across America is an annual reading motivation and awareness program that calls for every child in every community to celebrate reading on March 2, the birthday of beloved children's author Dr. Seuss.)
All week long there will be a book drive for students in need. (The book drive will now take place from March 2 - March 13). Alston Ridge will be attempting to fill a principal's office with books!
Monday, March 9: School Wide Reading Bingo Game
Monday, March 2: Kindergarten Reading Celebration! You are welcome to join us from 3:00-3:30 for a special reading celebration. The sailors are becoming such great readers! If you'd like to join us, you can bring some books from home or borrow some from our library to read with your child or small groups of students.
Tuesday, March 3 and 10: DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) will take place from 9:30-10:00. Students can bring a favorite stuffed animal to read with.
Wednesday, March 4: "Wacky Wednesday" Parade
Dress up as your favorite book character! Kindergarten will be going on a parade around the school showing off their costumes. Many students say this is their favorite day of kindergarten! :) Be creative and have fun.
Thursday, March 5 and 12: "Fox in Socks" Crazy Sock Day
Friday, March 6: Dr. Seuss Juice & Seuss-themed Snacks
Just a reminder: March 6 is no longer an early release day.
Pictures: Since the school has not yet been able to make concrete plans for picture retakes, all picture money will be sent home to you by Friday. I would recommend keeping this on your refrigerator until they reschedule a date. Hopefully, they will be able to reschedule this ASAP.
Field trip: We are working on an alternate field trip at this time. More details will be sent home as soon as we make sure we have the buses for this event.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
READ ACROSS AMERICA WEEK
This is a quick outline of Alston Ridge events for the week. (Read Across America is an annual reading motivation and awareness program that calls for every child in every community to celebrate reading on March 2, the birthday of beloved children's author Dr. Seuss.)
All week long there will be a book drive for students in need. (The book drive will now take place from March 2 - March 13). Alston Ridge will be attempting to fill a principal's office with books!
Monday, March 9: School Wide Reading Bingo Game
Monday, March 2: Kindergarten Reading Celebration! You are welcome to join us from 3:00-3:30 for a special reading celebration. The sailors are becoming such great readers! If you'd like to join us, you can bring some books from home or borrow some from our library to read with your child or small groups of students.
Tuesday, March 3 and 10: DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) will take place from 9:30-10:00. Students can bring a favorite stuffed animal to read with.
Wednesday, March 4: "Wacky Wednesday" Parade
Dress up as your favorite book character! Kindergarten will be going on a parade around the school showing off their costumes. Many students say this is their favorite day of kindergarten! :) Be creative and have fun.
Thursday, March 5 and 12: "Fox in Socks" Crazy Sock Day
Friday, March 6: Dr. Seuss Juice & Seuss-themed Snacks
Just a reminder: March 6 is no longer an early release day.
Field Trip Information
Our field trip to the Carolina Theater is on 2/19/2015. We will see Rainbow Fish! We are calling it "Fancy Thursday" because everyone is going to dress to impress. :)
Please send in 2 SNACKS and please PACK A LUNCH on that date. We will eat the first snack before we leave at 10:00. You may want to send in a hearty snack, because the kids are used to eating lunch at 11:20. We will probably not be back until 1:00. We will eat lunch at that time in our classroom. If anyone is hungry at the very end of the day, they can have their small snack during dismissal.
We will be leaving the school at 10:30 to arrive at the theater by 11:00. The show begins at 11:20.
Please send me an email if you would be interested in being a chaperone for this field trip.
As always, thanks for your help and support. It is a busy time of year!
Happy Valentine's Day! :)
Mrs. Joyce
Please send in 2 SNACKS and please PACK A LUNCH on that date. We will eat the first snack before we leave at 10:00. You may want to send in a hearty snack, because the kids are used to eating lunch at 11:20. We will probably not be back until 1:00. We will eat lunch at that time in our classroom. If anyone is hungry at the very end of the day, they can have their small snack during dismissal.
We will be leaving the school at 10:30 to arrive at the theater by 11:00. The show begins at 11:20.
Please send me an email if you would be interested in being a chaperone for this field trip.
As always, thanks for your help and support. It is a busy time of year!
Happy Valentine's Day! :)
Mrs. Joyce
1/30/2015
Hello!
I know we have a lot of fun projects coming up and I want to say THANK YOU in advance for all of your help and support from home!
Change over Time (Social Studies)
Baby pictures (please label on the back) are due Monday, February 2nd if possible! You also could send in an item from their baby clothes on this date.
"Story of Me" projects were sent home today and they are due Monday, February 9th.
Valentine's Day
We will pass out valentines on Thursday, February 13th (early release date). Please see the "class list" link for our current class list. I only ask that if you send in valentines, please make sure there is one for everyone to avoid any hurt feelings. Remind your child to write neatly if they are writing the names on their valentines - they will be reading the names to pass them out. :) This is great practice and they have so much fun doing this!
During the upcoming weeks, please have your child decorate a shoebox or something to collect their valentines in. Be creative and have fun!
100th Day
Kids' Collection: 100th Day is on February 16, 2015. This is also Presidents' Day. I will send out more information on this, but the children will use a large Ziploc bag and fill it with 100 small items. They will share their items with the class. Happy counting!
A few other notes:
We do not have library on our schedule this quarter due to the amount of classrooms we have at Alston Ridge. However, we do have 2 fifth grade volunteers that will be able to help small groups of sailors on Monday mornings (from 8:45-9:15).
The Q3 volunteer sign up has been posted on the "Classroom Sign Ups" tab.
I know we have a lot of fun projects coming up and I want to say THANK YOU in advance for all of your help and support from home!
Change over Time (Social Studies)
Baby pictures (please label on the back) are due Monday, February 2nd if possible! You also could send in an item from their baby clothes on this date.
"Story of Me" projects were sent home today and they are due Monday, February 9th.
Valentine's Day
We will pass out valentines on Thursday, February 13th (early release date). Please see the "class list" link for our current class list. I only ask that if you send in valentines, please make sure there is one for everyone to avoid any hurt feelings. Remind your child to write neatly if they are writing the names on their valentines - they will be reading the names to pass them out. :) This is great practice and they have so much fun doing this!
During the upcoming weeks, please have your child decorate a shoebox or something to collect their valentines in. Be creative and have fun!
100th Day
Kids' Collection: 100th Day is on February 16, 2015. This is also Presidents' Day. I will send out more information on this, but the children will use a large Ziploc bag and fill it with 100 small items. They will share their items with the class. Happy counting!
A few other notes:
We do not have library on our schedule this quarter due to the amount of classrooms we have at Alston Ridge. However, we do have 2 fifth grade volunteers that will be able to help small groups of sailors on Monday mornings (from 8:45-9:15).
The Q3 volunteer sign up has been posted on the "Classroom Sign Ups" tab.
1/26/2015
Welcome back!
I am looking forward to seeing the kids again on Wednesday! :)
Our new specials for Q3 will be:
Monday-Technology
Tuesday-P.E.
Wednesday-Art
Thursday-Music
Friday-Guidance
Also, these are the standards we will be assessing this quarter:
I am looking forward to seeing the kids again on Wednesday! :)
Our new specials for Q3 will be:
Monday-Technology
Tuesday-P.E.
Wednesday-Art
Thursday-Music
Friday-Guidance
Also, these are the standards we will be assessing this quarter:
q3_standards_for_parents.docx | |
File Size: | 67 kb |
File Type: | docx |
See you soon!
Mrs. Joyce
Mrs. Joyce
12/1/2014
Happy December!
December homework was passed out today; an alternate copy is located under the "homework" tab.
Mrs. Bajerski is back this week! We missed her! :)
During the next few weeks, we will be learning about winter, winter holidays, needs vs. wants, adding endings to words (-ed, -ing, -s), and sorting verbs and nouns. This week we began to discuss "multiple meaning words" and acted out the meanings of words that sound the same but have different meanings. For example, "duck" the animal vs. "duck" when you are playing baseball. :) In math, we've been learning about shapes. We have counted sides and the kids have learned that the word "vertices" means the points! In the past few years, we've added "hexagon" and "rhombus" to the list of 2D shapes that the students need to know before we track out.
I sent home a letter today about middle of the year reading assessments. I will be assessing the children on the skills listed except for the text reading comprehension. Your child will have a substitute teacher for 1 - 2 days later this month, as I will be assessing other kindergarten children, and another teacher will be assessing your child. The state has mandated that teachers cannot test their own students. Also, the Wake County mid-year math assessment will begin, so we have a busy month!
The book fair is this week! We will preview the books on Tuesday morning and if you'd like for your child to shop, we will shop on Thursday. They have some great books this year!
Have a great month!!
Mrs. Joyce
December homework was passed out today; an alternate copy is located under the "homework" tab.
Mrs. Bajerski is back this week! We missed her! :)
During the next few weeks, we will be learning about winter, winter holidays, needs vs. wants, adding endings to words (-ed, -ing, -s), and sorting verbs and nouns. This week we began to discuss "multiple meaning words" and acted out the meanings of words that sound the same but have different meanings. For example, "duck" the animal vs. "duck" when you are playing baseball. :) In math, we've been learning about shapes. We have counted sides and the kids have learned that the word "vertices" means the points! In the past few years, we've added "hexagon" and "rhombus" to the list of 2D shapes that the students need to know before we track out.
I sent home a letter today about middle of the year reading assessments. I will be assessing the children on the skills listed except for the text reading comprehension. Your child will have a substitute teacher for 1 - 2 days later this month, as I will be assessing other kindergarten children, and another teacher will be assessing your child. The state has mandated that teachers cannot test their own students. Also, the Wake County mid-year math assessment will begin, so we have a busy month!
The book fair is this week! We will preview the books on Tuesday morning and if you'd like for your child to shop, we will shop on Thursday. They have some great books this year!
Have a great month!!
Mrs. Joyce
11.17.2014
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
Interim reports are going home this week. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Please remember that individual reading levels will not be formally assessed until December-January so we will not have this data yet. The standards on the interim are the common core standards that we are required to teach during the first portion of the second quarter. There are 16 ELA standards, 9 Math standards, and 2 science standards that are included on the interim for this portion of the quarter. The foundational skills are very important to the process of learning how to read (phonemic awareness is considered the "springboard to literacy") so you may notice some additional notes regarding specific skills to work on in this section. The kindergarten team is working hard to ensure the success of all our wonderful children! :)
Additionally, as a school we are submitting donations to the Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology of Chapel Hill in honor of a very sweet child. If you would like to participate in this, just let me know and we will compile donations from our sailor class.
If you are in need of coats for the winter season:
· The Salvation Army will be distributing coats to help families prepare for cold weather, on December 13, 2014 at 1863 Capital Blvd from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
· Parent and any adult in the household needs: A government issued photo ID & Proof that you are a Wake County resident (ID or utility bill)
· For children in the household you need: A formal document with both the parent(s) and child’s name on it (such as a birth certificate, shot records, OR Medicaid card).
· Each household may come once per winter season for coats. Each person in the house is allowed 1 coat.
Interim reports are going home this week. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Please remember that individual reading levels will not be formally assessed until December-January so we will not have this data yet. The standards on the interim are the common core standards that we are required to teach during the first portion of the second quarter. There are 16 ELA standards, 9 Math standards, and 2 science standards that are included on the interim for this portion of the quarter. The foundational skills are very important to the process of learning how to read (phonemic awareness is considered the "springboard to literacy") so you may notice some additional notes regarding specific skills to work on in this section. The kindergarten team is working hard to ensure the success of all our wonderful children! :)
Additionally, as a school we are submitting donations to the Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology of Chapel Hill in honor of a very sweet child. If you would like to participate in this, just let me know and we will compile donations from our sailor class.
If you are in need of coats for the winter season:
· The Salvation Army will be distributing coats to help families prepare for cold weather, on December 13, 2014 at 1863 Capital Blvd from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
· Parent and any adult in the household needs: A government issued photo ID & Proof that you are a Wake County resident (ID or utility bill)
· For children in the household you need: A formal document with both the parent(s) and child’s name on it (such as a birth certificate, shot records, OR Medicaid card).
· Each household may come once per winter season for coats. Each person in the house is allowed 1 coat.
10.26.2014
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded. Please read for important information about the week.
It is Red Ribbon Week! Please check your emails from the class parents regarding the activities for each day (or see the announcement below.)
Also, our field trip is on Thursday 10/30 to Green Acres Farm. All sailors should wear BLUE and pack a lunch on this day. :) We will be eating as soon as we get back from the farm and will miss our normal lunch time in the cafeteria.
Have a great week!
Mrs. Joyce
It is Red Ribbon Week! Please check your emails from the class parents regarding the activities for each day (or see the announcement below.)
Also, our field trip is on Thursday 10/30 to Green Acres Farm. All sailors should wear BLUE and pack a lunch on this day. :) We will be eating as soon as we get back from the farm and will miss our normal lunch time in the cafeteria.
Have a great week!
Mrs. Joyce
Team Zach :)
"Team Zach" supports our very own Kindergarten Sailor Zach! CureSearch for Children's Cancer is a wonderful charity and the team has already raised over $18,000 to find a cure for children's cancer!! If you would like to donate to the team or walk with us on Saturday morning to support Zach, please see the information below!
Meet Zach (ABC Interview): http://abc11.com/health/triangle-curesearch-walk-aimed-at-fighting-pediatric-cancer/359867/
Follow This Link to visit the team web page!
Our kindergarten class donations: www.curesearchwalk.org/triangle/carrieodonnell30
Event Schedule: Registration / Check-in 9:00am, Opening Ceremony / Walk: 10:00am
Event Location: Durham Bulls Athletic Park (Map) 409 Blackwell St. Durham NC 27701
FAQ's:
What time should I arrive? Registration begins at 9:00AM. During 9-10am, we will have face painting, a fun photo booth for picture taking, and a cape-making and mask-decorating station. Come early and enjoy the beautiful weather! Our Opening Ceremony begins at 10:00 AM, followed by our Walk, food, and Closing Ceremony. All in all, our day will last until 11:30AMish.
Do I have to check-in if I'm registered? If you already registered online, just check in with your Team Captain, and they will have your ticket if you raised $100 and qualified for a free t-shirt.
Can I make donations that day? Absolutely!
Meet Zach (ABC Interview): http://abc11.com/health/triangle-curesearch-walk-aimed-at-fighting-pediatric-cancer/359867/
Follow This Link to visit the team web page!
Our kindergarten class donations: www.curesearchwalk.org/triangle/carrieodonnell30
Event Schedule: Registration / Check-in 9:00am, Opening Ceremony / Walk: 10:00am
Event Location: Durham Bulls Athletic Park (Map) 409 Blackwell St. Durham NC 27701
FAQ's:
What time should I arrive? Registration begins at 9:00AM. During 9-10am, we will have face painting, a fun photo booth for picture taking, and a cape-making and mask-decorating station. Come early and enjoy the beautiful weather! Our Opening Ceremony begins at 10:00 AM, followed by our Walk, food, and Closing Ceremony. All in all, our day will last until 11:30AMish.
Do I have to check-in if I'm registered? If you already registered online, just check in with your Team Captain, and they will have your ticket if you raised $100 and qualified for a free t-shirt.
Can I make donations that day? Absolutely!
RED RIBBON WEEK OCT. 27-OCT.31
Monday, October 27: Students will wear red to kick-off Red Ribbon Week.
Tuesday, October 28: Hat day: Put a cap on drugs.
Wednesday, October 29: Crazy sock day: Sock it to drugs.
Thursday, October 30: Wear your favorite sports team: Team together to make good choices.
Friday, October 31: School Spirit Day: Alston Ridge has the spirit to be drug free!
Tuesday, October 28: Hat day: Put a cap on drugs.
Wednesday, October 29: Crazy sock day: Sock it to drugs.
Thursday, October 30: Wear your favorite sports team: Team together to make good choices.
Friday, October 31: School Spirit Day: Alston Ridge has the spirit to be drug free!
welcome back! important quarter 2 updates
I'm looking forward to seeing the kids on Monday; I hope they had a fun track out! If your child wrote in a journal or has pictures from something fun that they did over break, please have them bring that in on Monday. We will take some time to share our stories about track out.
I added quarter 2 volunteer sign ups under the "classroom sign ups" tab if you'd like to help on Wednesday mornings (10:30-11:15) or Friday afternoons (1:00-1:45). I also added October & November homework under the "homework" tab. I updated the "standards for parents" handout to reflect the most current curricular information from the state & Wake County; please see the "common core standards" tab for quarter 2 to see the standards we will be working on this quarter.
I'm sure the kids are excited about the field trip to the pumpkin farm! Thank you for your online payments and for signing up to volunteer if you'd like to. On OCTOBER 30th, ALL SAILORS SHOULD WEAR BLUE! Since there will be many kindergarten classes there, it will differentiate our class from the others. All students should pack a lunch on this day.
**Please email me this week if we were not able to meet for a parent conference yet.**
Quarter 2 Specials:
Monday: Technology
Tuesday: PE (please wear comfortable clothes & sneakers)
Wednesday: Art
Thursday: Music
Friday: Library (please return library books by Thursday each week)
Have a great weekend!
Mrs. Joyce (It will take me awhile to get used to that!)
I added quarter 2 volunteer sign ups under the "classroom sign ups" tab if you'd like to help on Wednesday mornings (10:30-11:15) or Friday afternoons (1:00-1:45). I also added October & November homework under the "homework" tab. I updated the "standards for parents" handout to reflect the most current curricular information from the state & Wake County; please see the "common core standards" tab for quarter 2 to see the standards we will be working on this quarter.
I'm sure the kids are excited about the field trip to the pumpkin farm! Thank you for your online payments and for signing up to volunteer if you'd like to. On OCTOBER 30th, ALL SAILORS SHOULD WEAR BLUE! Since there will be many kindergarten classes there, it will differentiate our class from the others. All students should pack a lunch on this day.
**Please email me this week if we were not able to meet for a parent conference yet.**
Quarter 2 Specials:
Monday: Technology
Tuesday: PE (please wear comfortable clothes & sneakers)
Wednesday: Art
Thursday: Music
Friday: Library (please return library books by Thursday each week)
Have a great weekend!
Mrs. Joyce (It will take me awhile to get used to that!)
Happy track out! :)
An OPTIONAL packet was placed in your child’s homework folder. These are extra worksheets from the county and are great for practicing skills that may not be mastered yet. Again, these pages are only optional! :) We hope that the children enjoy a nice break and have fun with their families and friends.
Several parents have asked about suggestions for track out activities. Here are some things you might want to try:
English Language Arts
1. Practice writing and reading the letters of the alphabet. Practice letter names and sounds.
2. If your child has mastered their letters and sounds, practice reading simple words that they can sound out. Also, look for sight words in books! Practice reading and writing sight words in fun ways (magnetic letters, writing in sand, or with stamps or play dough)
3. JOURNAL WRITING – If you go somewhere or even if you stay at home, you can snap photos and start a scrapbook of pictures and/or your child’s artwork. Under the pictures, have your child write a sentence or two describing what happened. Optional: Bring in to share with the class when we track back in!
4. Practice writing a narrative story (a TRUE story that actually happened to them!), adding picture labels, and details to their words and illustration.
5. With respect to reading, one of the best things you can do is just cuddle up and read with your child. While reading, ask questions about the story, such as:
· Who were the main characters?
· Where was the setting? (Where did the story take place?)
· Can you retell the story?
· Think of another title, ending, or adventure for the main character(s)
*Critical Thinking Suggestion: Have students use evidence from the books to support answers. (“How did you know the setting was at the playground?” “How did the character feel at the beginning/end of the story? How do you know?”)
Math
1. Board games like Candyland or Chutes and Ladders are great fun for children to provide lots of good practice with counting and learning to take turns. You can easily modify them to practice letter sounds, sight words, number recognition, or addition and subtraction problems.
2. Practice writing numbers 1-20 (in and out of order) and counting to 100
3. Go on a shape hunt around your house – practice identifying both 2D and 3D shapes.
Thanks for all of your support during this very important first quarter of Kindergarten! :)
Several parents have asked about suggestions for track out activities. Here are some things you might want to try:
English Language Arts
1. Practice writing and reading the letters of the alphabet. Practice letter names and sounds.
2. If your child has mastered their letters and sounds, practice reading simple words that they can sound out. Also, look for sight words in books! Practice reading and writing sight words in fun ways (magnetic letters, writing in sand, or with stamps or play dough)
3. JOURNAL WRITING – If you go somewhere or even if you stay at home, you can snap photos and start a scrapbook of pictures and/or your child’s artwork. Under the pictures, have your child write a sentence or two describing what happened. Optional: Bring in to share with the class when we track back in!
4. Practice writing a narrative story (a TRUE story that actually happened to them!), adding picture labels, and details to their words and illustration.
5. With respect to reading, one of the best things you can do is just cuddle up and read with your child. While reading, ask questions about the story, such as:
· Who were the main characters?
· Where was the setting? (Where did the story take place?)
· Can you retell the story?
· Think of another title, ending, or adventure for the main character(s)
*Critical Thinking Suggestion: Have students use evidence from the books to support answers. (“How did you know the setting was at the playground?” “How did the character feel at the beginning/end of the story? How do you know?”)
Math
1. Board games like Candyland or Chutes and Ladders are great fun for children to provide lots of good practice with counting and learning to take turns. You can easily modify them to practice letter sounds, sight words, number recognition, or addition and subtraction problems.
2. Practice writing numbers 1-20 (in and out of order) and counting to 100
3. Go on a shape hunt around your house – practice identifying both 2D and 3D shapes.
Thanks for all of your support during this very important first quarter of Kindergarten! :)
9/24/2014: chaperone sign up for PUMPKIN FARM field trip
9/22/2014: field trips, fall conferences
Quarter 1: Parent Conferences Sign Up
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c4ea4ac2babf94-fall
Kindergarten Parents,
As part of our kindergarten year, we will be attending several field trips. We have four trips tentatively scheduled for this year. They are listed below. More information about these trips will be sent home closer to the field trip dates. The total cost for all of the field trips is $38.75. We are asking that parents pay for the trips online this year. To pay online, please go to the Alston Ridge website and click on Events and Information. Under the upcoming events list, there is a link for the online payment site. Look for your child’s teacher and pay there. We are asking that you pay for the field trips by 10/24/14 so that we can have them scheduled and paid for. J Just a reminder: if you’d like to help out on any of these field trips and volunteer, please make sure you have your clearances through the school! We would love to have you join us! If you have any questions, please let us know!
Thank you so much!
ARE Kindergarten Team
2014-2015 Field Trips
10/30/14 Green Acres Pumpkin Farm
11/19/14 OR 11/20/14 Science Fun for Everyone (in school)
2/19/15 Carolina Theatre – Rainbow Fish
5/8/15 Durham Museum of Life and Science
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c4ea4ac2babf94-fall
Kindergarten Parents,
As part of our kindergarten year, we will be attending several field trips. We have four trips tentatively scheduled for this year. They are listed below. More information about these trips will be sent home closer to the field trip dates. The total cost for all of the field trips is $38.75. We are asking that parents pay for the trips online this year. To pay online, please go to the Alston Ridge website and click on Events and Information. Under the upcoming events list, there is a link for the online payment site. Look for your child’s teacher and pay there. We are asking that you pay for the field trips by 10/24/14 so that we can have them scheduled and paid for. J Just a reminder: if you’d like to help out on any of these field trips and volunteer, please make sure you have your clearances through the school! We would love to have you join us! If you have any questions, please let us know!
Thank you so much!
ARE Kindergarten Team
2014-2015 Field Trips
10/30/14 Green Acres Pumpkin Farm
11/19/14 OR 11/20/14 Science Fun for Everyone (in school)
2/19/15 Carolina Theatre – Rainbow Fish
5/8/15 Durham Museum of Life and Science
handbook verification form
http://www.wcpss.net/parents/handbook/
Online Handbook
WCPSS has requested that we send out handbook verification forms and we need to keep these on file for the duration of the year. These were not sent out in the beginning of the year but ARE would appreciate it if you could return this form as soon as you receive it (we were told to hold onto the forms until Monday and you will see them on the "Return to School" side). Thanks for your cooperation!
Online Handbook
WCPSS has requested that we send out handbook verification forms and we need to keep these on file for the duration of the year. These were not sent out in the beginning of the year but ARE would appreciate it if you could return this form as soon as you receive it (we were told to hold onto the forms until Monday and you will see them on the "Return to School" side). Thanks for your cooperation!
9/13/2014
Hello! Please sign up for a fall conference below. The weekly newsletter has been uploaded for the week of 9/14. Assessments will continue this week and we will input grades into the PowerSchool report card system. It has been an "interesting" program in the past so please bear with our teachers as we make sure grades are accurate. The report cards are also not exactly kindergarten friendly, so we will be available for questions during our fall conference. That's just something to keep in mind as we wrap up the first quarter assessments and grades! Have a wonderful week and I look forward to meeting with you soon! -Ms. O'Donnell
Parent conference meetings
Please sign up for a brief 15-minute fall conference. We will be discussing your child's adjustment to kindergarten and academic progress that has been made so far. If you are unable to make one of these conference times, just let me know in advance. Have a wonderful day!
Quarter 1: Parent Conferences Sign Up
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c4ea4ac2babf94-fall
Quarter 1: Parent Conferences Sign Up
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c4ea4ac2babf94-fall
a message from the boosterthon folks
Parents,
Thank you for supporting this year’s Boosterthon Fun Run! The program was a huge success, but I still need your help. Our goal is to collect 90-100% by September 10th, which is the first due date. We can do it! Please help your student get in touch with their sponsors. Sponsors can pay three ways—Cash, Check or Credit Card online. If an e-mail address was entered with the original pledge on www.funrun.com, your sponsor will receive a pledge link to pay directly by credit card if they so choose or they can enter their e-mail at www.funrun.com/payment. If not, they can mail cash or check to you and you can send it all in at once with your child’s collection envelope. That envelope went home today or yesterday along with a reminder letter highlighting what’s outstanding. You can also log on to www.funrun.com for all the information you may need. Thanks again for your help and support of our class!
Thank you for supporting this year’s Boosterthon Fun Run! The program was a huge success, but I still need your help. Our goal is to collect 90-100% by September 10th, which is the first due date. We can do it! Please help your student get in touch with their sponsors. Sponsors can pay three ways—Cash, Check or Credit Card online. If an e-mail address was entered with the original pledge on www.funrun.com, your sponsor will receive a pledge link to pay directly by credit card if they so choose or they can enter their e-mail at www.funrun.com/payment. If not, they can mail cash or check to you and you can send it all in at once with your child’s collection envelope. That envelope went home today or yesterday along with a reminder letter highlighting what’s outstanding. You can also log on to www.funrun.com for all the information you may need. Thanks again for your help and support of our class!
9/3/2014
Hope to see you at Boosterthon tomorrow at 9:30 AM!
Students will need to wear their shirts, sneakers, and comfortable clothes.
We earned a picnic lunch and a popsicle party so we will be celebrating on Friday! :)
Friday is an early release day so dismissal will begin at 1:15. If you will be changing your child's transportation, you will need to call the school or send in a handwritten note for your child's safety.
I loved hearing about all of the fun things the kids did over Labor Day weekend!
Have a wonderful evening,
Ms. O'Donnell
Students will need to wear their shirts, sneakers, and comfortable clothes.
We earned a picnic lunch and a popsicle party so we will be celebrating on Friday! :)
Friday is an early release day so dismissal will begin at 1:15. If you will be changing your child's transportation, you will need to call the school or send in a handwritten note for your child's safety.
I loved hearing about all of the fun things the kids did over Labor Day weekend!
Have a wonderful evening,
Ms. O'Donnell
8/25/2014
It is hard to believe we are about halfway through the quarter!
Later this week students will be getting more specific information about their reading levels in their green folder. Reading levels were passed out at Open House or put in your child's green folder on the following day.
Understanding your Child's Reading Level
For parents that couldn't make it to Open House and a quick refresher for those who could! :)
<PC: Below print concepts
PC: Print Concepts
(Print concept tasks include: show me the front of the book, back of the book, capital letter, lowercase letter, one letter, one word, the first part of the sentence, the last part of the sentence, where we should start reading, etc.)
RB: Reading Behaviors (Students are starting to use pictures to help them "read" and can maintain the language pattern after a few pages are read to them. These children can point to each word read and are working hard to read the words! They are almost readers. :)
A-Z: Students are sounding out words and reading books of increasing difficulty.
Students are expected to be reading at a level D or above by the end of kindergarten. Every child is expected to move up 4 levels regardless of their starting point; therefore, a child starting kindergarten on a level B will be expected to leave kindergarten on a level F or above. This expectation is created so all children achieve or exceed one year of growth per year. We are confident that all of our children will be able to do this. Thank you for all of your support from home!
Have a great week,
Ms. O'Donnell
Later this week students will be getting more specific information about their reading levels in their green folder. Reading levels were passed out at Open House or put in your child's green folder on the following day.
Understanding your Child's Reading Level
For parents that couldn't make it to Open House and a quick refresher for those who could! :)
<PC: Below print concepts
PC: Print Concepts
(Print concept tasks include: show me the front of the book, back of the book, capital letter, lowercase letter, one letter, one word, the first part of the sentence, the last part of the sentence, where we should start reading, etc.)
RB: Reading Behaviors (Students are starting to use pictures to help them "read" and can maintain the language pattern after a few pages are read to them. These children can point to each word read and are working hard to read the words! They are almost readers. :)
A-Z: Students are sounding out words and reading books of increasing difficulty.
Students are expected to be reading at a level D or above by the end of kindergarten. Every child is expected to move up 4 levels regardless of their starting point; therefore, a child starting kindergarten on a level B will be expected to leave kindergarten on a level F or above. This expectation is created so all children achieve or exceed one year of growth per year. We are confident that all of our children will be able to do this. Thank you for all of your support from home!
Have a great week,
Ms. O'Donnell
open house powerpoint
open_house_ppt_2014.pptx | |
File Size: | 351 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
The Open House PPT is above for anyone who missed the presentations last night!
Have a wonderful weekend,
Ms. O'Donnell
Have a wonderful weekend,
Ms. O'Donnell
8/13/2014
Open House will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2014.
The PTA meeting will be held via video during the first ten minutes of each session.
If you can join us, please join us for one of the following kindergarten sessions:
Session 1: 5:30-6:05
Session 2: 6:05-6:40
I look forward to seeing you!
Ms. O'Donnell
The PTA meeting will be held via video during the first ten minutes of each session.
If you can join us, please join us for one of the following kindergarten sessions:
Session 1: 5:30-6:05
Session 2: 6:05-6:40
I look forward to seeing you!
Ms. O'Donnell
Welcome to alston ridge kindergarten!
Welcome, families!
Staggered Entry will take place during the week of JULY 28; your child will attend for one full day during this week. One of our wonderful kindergarten teachers will work with your child this week and complete the necessary assessments. Classroom rosters for kindergarten classes will be posted on the front doors of Alston Ridge on Friday, July 31 at 4:30 pm.
Supplies
**Please bring on AUGUST 4, 2014 after your child has been placed in his/her kindergarten class
**My class will also need a small pencil box (not bag), one heavy-duty yellow folder, and one heavy-duty blue folder.
**Copy paper does not work on our printer so please send in printer paper instead - THANK YOU!
Backpack (large enough to hold library books**)
24 pk.#2 wooden pencils, sharpened- (No chubby pencils or pencils with designs)
10 – 20 small Glue sticks
Scissors ("Fiskars" brand)
Box of tissues
3 Boxes of 24 count crayons (Crayola)
1 pack of dry erase markers (Expo brand)
2 Primary composition notebooks
1 pack copy/printer paper
Large Erasers
1 pack of Crayola markers
2 Containers of disinfecting wipes
Change of clothes in Ziploc bag, labeled with name
Daily nutritious snack
Girls: Gallon/ Quart size Ziploc Bags
Bottle of Hand Soap
Boys: Sandwich/ Snack size Ziploc Bags
1 roll of blue painters tape (Frog Brand)
Additions:
$4 Raz-Kids reading Program (send cash or check in a sealed envelope or sandwich bag, labeled with child's name)
*Additional funds may be requested for field trips.*
Staggered Entry will take place during the week of JULY 28; your child will attend for one full day during this week. One of our wonderful kindergarten teachers will work with your child this week and complete the necessary assessments. Classroom rosters for kindergarten classes will be posted on the front doors of Alston Ridge on Friday, July 31 at 4:30 pm.
Supplies
**Please bring on AUGUST 4, 2014 after your child has been placed in his/her kindergarten class
**My class will also need a small pencil box (not bag), one heavy-duty yellow folder, and one heavy-duty blue folder.
**Copy paper does not work on our printer so please send in printer paper instead - THANK YOU!
Backpack (large enough to hold library books**)
24 pk.#2 wooden pencils, sharpened- (No chubby pencils or pencils with designs)
10 – 20 small Glue sticks
Scissors ("Fiskars" brand)
Box of tissues
3 Boxes of 24 count crayons (Crayola)
1 pack of dry erase markers (Expo brand)
2 Primary composition notebooks
1 pack copy/printer paper
Large Erasers
1 pack of Crayola markers
2 Containers of disinfecting wipes
Change of clothes in Ziploc bag, labeled with name
Daily nutritious snack
Girls: Gallon/ Quart size Ziploc Bags
Bottle of Hand Soap
Boys: Sandwich/ Snack size Ziploc Bags
1 roll of blue painters tape (Frog Brand)
Additions:
$4 Raz-Kids reading Program (send cash or check in a sealed envelope or sandwich bag, labeled with child's name)
*Additional funds may be requested for field trips.*
congratulations, sailors!!!!
What a GREAT day today!
Here is a slideshow of some great days in kindergarten :) I apologize for so many slides... but I just couldn't cut it down any more! I have truly LOVED teaching your children and I am so thankful for your support this year. As I was putting together their writing and assessments from throughout the year, I was reminded of how far they have come! The sailors are truly thoughtful... musical... smart.... brave... helpful... special... and now if only I could get that song out of my head! :) Have a great night and please join us if you are able to make it for a picnic lunch on Friday during our normal lunch time (11:00).
http://www.smilebox.com/playBlog/4e4441344d7a6b324f54633d0d0a&blogview=true
Here is a slideshow of some great days in kindergarten :) I apologize for so many slides... but I just couldn't cut it down any more! I have truly LOVED teaching your children and I am so thankful for your support this year. As I was putting together their writing and assessments from throughout the year, I was reminded of how far they have come! The sailors are truly thoughtful... musical... smart.... brave... helpful... special... and now if only I could get that song out of my head! :) Have a great night and please join us if you are able to make it for a picnic lunch on Friday during our normal lunch time (11:00).
http://www.smilebox.com/playBlog/4e4441344d7a6b324f54633d0d0a&blogview=true
6/23/2014
Helpful hint: The sailors will be singing on stage right (looking from the audience, you will see us on the left side) so you may want to sit on that side of the gym for the show on 9/25!
It has been such a wonderful year; thank you for being such wonderful families and raising such fantastic children! It has been my pleasure to teach your child and I am so thrilled that they had a great year. I am certain they are all ready for first grade and will lead amazing lives! This morning we had a good time brainstorming 16 PAGES of things they learned in kindergarten and one student exclaimed, "WOW! WE LEARNED SO MUCH THIS YEAR!" and I completely agree. As excited as I am about their progress in reading, writing, science, math, and social studies... even more important to me is that they learned about kindness, responsibility, and being a good friend to others. One student remembered the golden rule "treat others as you want to be treated" and they remembered talking about this on the first day of school. The sailors are a bright bunch. :)
I will be posting a slideshow to the website later this week from various pictures taken throughout the year. Stay tuned and I look forward to seeing you at the kindergarten performance on Wednesday morning! Our show begins at 9:45 and will last approximately until 10:30. Bring your camera and possibly a few tissues! :)
It has been such a wonderful year; thank you for being such wonderful families and raising such fantastic children! It has been my pleasure to teach your child and I am so thrilled that they had a great year. I am certain they are all ready for first grade and will lead amazing lives! This morning we had a good time brainstorming 16 PAGES of things they learned in kindergarten and one student exclaimed, "WOW! WE LEARNED SO MUCH THIS YEAR!" and I completely agree. As excited as I am about their progress in reading, writing, science, math, and social studies... even more important to me is that they learned about kindness, responsibility, and being a good friend to others. One student remembered the golden rule "treat others as you want to be treated" and they remembered talking about this on the first day of school. The sailors are a bright bunch. :)
I will be posting a slideshow to the website later this week from various pictures taken throughout the year. Stay tuned and I look forward to seeing you at the kindergarten performance on Wednesday morning! Our show begins at 9:45 and will last approximately until 10:30. Bring your camera and possibly a few tissues! :)
6/18/2014
If the weather is nice, we will be eating outside on the last day of school.
Please have your child PACK A LUNCH on this day (Friday, June 27).
Parents are welcome to join us outside for a picnic lunch!
Please have your child PACK A LUNCH on this day (Friday, June 27).
Parents are welcome to join us outside for a picnic lunch!
6/16/2014
Happy Monday!
I can’t believe we only have 2 more weeks! Watch for your “Ticket Stickers” for our End of Year Celebration to come home this Tuesday! Wear them and you will not have to check in at the office. . . just go directly to the gym. We’ve started practicing in the gym and the kids are so excited!
Due to the large amount of parents attending, our ARE administration has requested that you not follow us back to the classroom after the program so that students can resume their regular instructional day. Thank you for your understanding!
We are also asking that your child “dress to impress” for the show on June 25th! The kids have been calling it "Fancy Wednesday." :)
Reading and math testing has been completed! Mrs. Brown and I are excited to enjoy the last few weeks of kindergarten with our spectacular sailors!!
Ms. O'Donnell
I can’t believe we only have 2 more weeks! Watch for your “Ticket Stickers” for our End of Year Celebration to come home this Tuesday! Wear them and you will not have to check in at the office. . . just go directly to the gym. We’ve started practicing in the gym and the kids are so excited!
Due to the large amount of parents attending, our ARE administration has requested that you not follow us back to the classroom after the program so that students can resume their regular instructional day. Thank you for your understanding!
We are also asking that your child “dress to impress” for the show on June 25th! The kids have been calling it "Fancy Wednesday." :)
Reading and math testing has been completed! Mrs. Brown and I are excited to enjoy the last few weeks of kindergarten with our spectacular sailors!!
Ms. O'Donnell
6/10/2014
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
Have a great week!
Ms. O'Donnell
Have a great week!
Ms. O'Donnell
June 2014
June Homework has been uploaded. The kids did a great job with their bedroom maps and handwriting homework this week!
The office is requesting that the yellow forms on the "return to school" side be returned as soon as possible.
Reading testing is ALMOST complete :) All I can say is... WOW! They are impressing me every day with how much knowledge they have gained this year! We will continue to test math into next week and enjoy some singing time with Ms. Conn & Mrs. Howell's classrooms. They are excited about our performance on June 25th!
Have a great evening,
Ms. O'Donnell
The office is requesting that the yellow forms on the "return to school" side be returned as soon as possible.
Reading testing is ALMOST complete :) All I can say is... WOW! They are impressing me every day with how much knowledge they have gained this year! We will continue to test math into next week and enjoy some singing time with Ms. Conn & Mrs. Howell's classrooms. They are excited about our performance on June 25th!
Have a great evening,
Ms. O'Donnell
5/22/2014
**The weekly newsletter has been updated.
**On Monday, June 2 we will have "Teddy Bear Day," so please have your child send in one teddy bear on this day. We will be measuring our teddy bears for our math unit.
**Our LAST Scholastic Book Order for the year was sent home yesterday! These will be due Monday, June 2.
Ordering online is fast and easy:
**Field day will be next Friday, May 30th in the afternoon. The children will be doing different activities outside so please have the children wear sneakers and sunblock, and bring a water bottle and change of clothes JUST in case they get wet. :)
Have a great Memorial Day weekend!
Ms. O'Donnell
**On Monday, June 2 we will have "Teddy Bear Day," so please have your child send in one teddy bear on this day. We will be measuring our teddy bears for our math unit.
**Our LAST Scholastic Book Order for the year was sent home yesterday! These will be due Monday, June 2.
Ordering online is fast and easy:
- REGISTER at www.scholastic.com/bookclubs
- ENTER the Class Activation Code L2BF4
- CHOOSE from thousands of print titles, value packs, and Storia eBooks
- SUBMIT the order to your child's teacher
- EARN FREE Books for you and the classroom too!
**Field day will be next Friday, May 30th in the afternoon. The children will be doing different activities outside so please have the children wear sneakers and sunblock, and bring a water bottle and change of clothes JUST in case they get wet. :)
Have a great Memorial Day weekend!
Ms. O'Donnell
5/10/2014
Thank you so much for such a FANTASTIC teacher appreciation week! Your kindness is very much appreciated!! It is a true joy to work with your children each day and I am so happy to be a part of their education. I also want to wish the moms a very happy Mother's Day tomorrow :) The kids were so thrilled to create gifts and talk about what they are doing to celebrate the holiday. On a personal note, my mom was the one who inspired me to be a teacher; as a child we would go to the library with an XL LL Bean bag and fill it with books to read that week. It was a favorite pastime for us and as I grew up, I knew wanted to be a part of the joy of learning for other children. Although she's no longer with us, I am thankful for my job as a teacher and I know that this is my life's calling. Thank you for being such supportive parents and for raising such sweet, kind, and curious children! Mrs. Brown and I both adore our sailor class!
Q4 Volunteer Sign Up:
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C4EA4AC2BABF94-q4volunteers?uToken=25EFCBF6FF02F8075EC3DFCD02E8
Have a wonderful weekend!
Ms. O'Donnell
Q4 Volunteer Sign Up:
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C4EA4AC2BABF94-q4volunteers?uToken=25EFCBF6FF02F8075EC3DFCD02E8
Have a wonderful weekend!
Ms. O'Donnell
5/5/2014
THANK YOU TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS FOR CHAPERONES! We now have 10 parents coming which means each group will have 2-3 students. In such a busy place, this makes me very happy!! Thanks again for coming!!!!!!
Field Trip Information:
We will be leaving the school at 9:30 on May 8th and will leave the museum at 1:00. We will attend the "Wetland Wonders" museum program at 10:00. Students will be able to navigate the main building of the museum and the outdoor exhibits (including the butterfly house). We will eat lunch as soon as we get back. Students DO need to pack a lunch that day as the cafeteria will be closed when we get back. It also would be helpful to the chaperones if your child wore their ARE shirt (if they have one). Thank you!
Would anyone be willing and able to send in individual bags of mini-pretzels or something for the kids to eat while we are at the museum? Chaperones can decide whenever they'd like their kids to take their snack break.
Field Trip Information:
We will be leaving the school at 9:30 on May 8th and will leave the museum at 1:00. We will attend the "Wetland Wonders" museum program at 10:00. Students will be able to navigate the main building of the museum and the outdoor exhibits (including the butterfly house). We will eat lunch as soon as we get back. Students DO need to pack a lunch that day as the cafeteria will be closed when we get back. It also would be helpful to the chaperones if your child wore their ARE shirt (if they have one). Thank you!
Would anyone be willing and able to send in individual bags of mini-pretzels or something for the kids to eat while we are at the museum? Chaperones can decide whenever they'd like their kids to take their snack break.
4/28/2014
We are still in need of a few chaperones for our March 8th field trip; if you'd like to join us, please let me know! :)
Have a great week!
Ms. O'Donnell
Have a great week!
Ms. O'Donnell
4/22/2014
Welcome back!! :)
Q4 Specials Schedule:
Monday - Music (1:00)
Tuesday - Technology (9:20)
Wednesday - Media (1:00)
Thursday - P.E. (1:00)
Friday - Art (1:55)
Q4 Lunch Schedule: 11:00-11:30
Q4 Wish List: Lysol Wipes, HP 920 Printer Ink, Crayons, Hand Sanitizer, Tissue paper, Stickers, Colored Duck Tape (Any style/design), Clothespins, Trinkets for the treasure chest
Q4 Common Core Standards: See our "Common Core Standards" section.
Homework has been posted for the end of April and May.
Spelling Words to Practice: what, with, went, want, because, when, are, get, my, out, of, there, here, was, saw
I hope everyone had a great break! I look forward to seeing the kids tomorrow!
Ms. O'Donnell
Q4 Specials Schedule:
Monday - Music (1:00)
Tuesday - Technology (9:20)
Wednesday - Media (1:00)
Thursday - P.E. (1:00)
Friday - Art (1:55)
Q4 Lunch Schedule: 11:00-11:30
Q4 Wish List: Lysol Wipes, HP 920 Printer Ink, Crayons, Hand Sanitizer, Tissue paper, Stickers, Colored Duck Tape (Any style/design), Clothespins, Trinkets for the treasure chest
Q4 Common Core Standards: See our "Common Core Standards" section.
Homework has been posted for the end of April and May.
Spelling Words to Practice: what, with, went, want, because, when, are, get, my, out, of, there, here, was, saw
I hope everyone had a great break! I look forward to seeing the kids tomorrow!
Ms. O'Donnell
FRIDAY, MARCH 28 IS NO LONGER AN EARLY RELEASE DAY. WE WILL HAVE A FULL DAY OF INSTRUCTION. THEREFORE, THERE IS NO NEED FOR THE STUDENTS TO COME ON SATURDAY, MARCH 29! :)
3/24/2014
It is hard to believe we are in the last week of Quarter 3!
The children have come such a long way since the beginning of the year! :)
I am very proud of their accomplishments and we will be celebrating how much we've learned this week.
The weekly newsletter has been posted.
Have a great week!
Ms. O'Donnell
The children have come such a long way since the beginning of the year! :)
I am very proud of their accomplishments and we will be celebrating how much we've learned this week.
The weekly newsletter has been posted.
Have a great week!
Ms. O'Donnell
3/17/2014
Please return the field trip form with $11.00 tomorrow. The kids are going to love the play!
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Ms. O'Donnell
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Ms. O'Donnell
Flip the sound poster
flipthesoundfreebie.pdf | |
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This poster mimics the sound cards we have in our room. The students have been practicing flipping the sound if the word doesn't make sense. It also includes some tricky digraphs (2 letters making 1 sound) and "sneaky y" which can sound like a y, long i, or long e.
Have a great weekend!
Ms. O'Donnell
Have a great weekend!
Ms. O'Donnell
3/6/2014
WOW! What a great fun run! Thanks for coming to support the sailors!
They were very tired by the end of the day :)
Also, tomorrow is a full school day due to our previous snow days. We are no longer having an early release day.
Have a good night,
Ms. O'Donnell
They were very tired by the end of the day :)
Also, tomorrow is a full school day due to our previous snow days. We are no longer having an early release day.
Have a good night,
Ms. O'Donnell
March news
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C4EA4AC2BABF94-q3conferences
Please sign up for a 15 minute spring conference. :)
OUR FUN RUN TIME HAS CHANGED TO 12:00-12:50 (3/6/2014) IN THE GYM. Please see the note sent home for more details. The kinders should wear their shirt tomorrow along with comfortable clothes and running shoes.
Please sign up for a 15 minute spring conference. :)
OUR FUN RUN TIME HAS CHANGED TO 12:00-12:50 (3/6/2014) IN THE GYM. Please see the note sent home for more details. The kinders should wear their shirt tomorrow along with comfortable clothes and running shoes.
3/3/2014
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
March 2014 homework has been uploaded.
Stay warm!
Have a great week,
Ms. O'Donnell
March 2014 homework has been uploaded.
Stay warm!
Have a great week,
Ms. O'Donnell
2/23/2014
Please see the newsletter for other important dates and information!
**Spring Pictures will take place on WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26.
**Our Science Fun for Everyone field trip will take place on MARCH 10, 2014 due to our previous snow day.
**Boosterthon begins on TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25.
**Quarter 3 Conferences are beginning very soon! I will send out the Sign Up Genius link later this week.
A few notes:
Thank you so much for sending in the wonderful timelines! We are still sharing a few each day. They turned out so well; thank you for all of your help with this project!
Also, I really appreciate you completing the "Reading Buddies" homework slip. It is very helpful to hear what you are noticing regarding reading accuracy (trouble with sight words or sounding out certain sounds), fluency, and motivation at home. I am seeing so many improvements since the beginning of the year and I'm excited about this quarter! The kids have been VERY hard at work on their "How-To" stories and have been working their way through the writing process. I am extremely pleased with how well they are doing! :)
Have a great week,
Ms. O'Donnell
**Spring Pictures will take place on WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26.
**Our Science Fun for Everyone field trip will take place on MARCH 10, 2014 due to our previous snow day.
**Boosterthon begins on TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25.
**Quarter 3 Conferences are beginning very soon! I will send out the Sign Up Genius link later this week.
A few notes:
Thank you so much for sending in the wonderful timelines! We are still sharing a few each day. They turned out so well; thank you for all of your help with this project!
Also, I really appreciate you completing the "Reading Buddies" homework slip. It is very helpful to hear what you are noticing regarding reading accuracy (trouble with sight words or sounding out certain sounds), fluency, and motivation at home. I am seeing so many improvements since the beginning of the year and I'm excited about this quarter! The kids have been VERY hard at work on their "How-To" stories and have been working their way through the writing process. I am extremely pleased with how well they are doing! :)
Have a great week,
Ms. O'Donnell
2/16/2014
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded! Have a great week!
Ms. O'Donnell
Ms. O'Donnell
2/9/2014
Hello! We made it through our first Saturday Make-Up Day! One down and three more to go! This will be an exciting week with our Science Fun for Everyone program on Wednesday and Valentine’s Day on Friday. The kids are looking forward to exchanging valentines and on Saturday we’ll celebrate the 100th Day of School! We’ve been counting the days of Kindergarten since the very first day and soon it will be here. Wow! As you’ve probably heard already, the new Boosterthon dates have been finalized. It will kick off on Tuesday, February 25th and continue through Thursday, March 6th, culminating with the Fun Run. The time for K-1 students will be from 11:45-12:45 and we hope you can come help cheer the Sailors on! Thanks so much for your wonderful support and help with all of our class projects and needs!
Saturday School (2/15): Please send a written note in your child’s folder to let us know how your child will be going home on Saturday (if it’s different than normal). Sometimes the kids get confused or can’t remember their bus or carpool number. Also be sure to pack a sandwich or larger than usual snack. Thank you! ☺
Saturday School (2/15): Please send a written note in your child’s folder to let us know how your child will be going home on Saturday (if it’s different than normal). Sometimes the kids get confused or can’t remember their bus or carpool number. Also be sure to pack a sandwich or larger than usual snack. Thank you! ☺
2/7/2014
If you are unable to print the homework at home, please let me know. I will print you a copy from school.
SATURDAY SCHOOL:
You might want to consider sending a "larger" snack since students will miss their normal lunch time (11:00) and we will have school until 12:45. Considering the number of children that will be riding the bus (and not getting home until after 1:00) we will have an extended snack at 11:00 to maintain our normal schedule.
Have a great weekend!
Ms. O'Donnell
SATURDAY SCHOOL:
You might want to consider sending a "larger" snack since students will miss their normal lunch time (11:00) and we will have school until 12:45. Considering the number of children that will be riding the bus (and not getting home until after 1:00) we will have an extended snack at 11:00 to maintain our normal schedule.
Have a great weekend!
Ms. O'Donnell
timeline books
Hello! The due date for the timeline books is 2/19. No rush! It's a fun project for the kids to see changes as they grow. We've been having a great time looking through old pictures and baby clothes; we get to a few each day in the beginning of our daily social studies lesson. Thanks for sending these in!
Have a great day,
Ms. O'Donnell
Have a great day,
Ms. O'Donnell
Quarter 3 Volunteers
Quarter 3 Volunteer Sign Up:
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C4EA4AC2BABF94-quarter
Wish List: Febreze (any scent), Fabric Scraps (any pattern or design), Inexpensive treasure chest trinkets
Have a great week!
Ms. O'Donnell
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C4EA4AC2BABF94-quarter
Wish List: Febreze (any scent), Fabric Scraps (any pattern or design), Inexpensive treasure chest trinkets
Have a great week!
Ms. O'Donnell
2/3/2014
class_list_2.3.2014.docx | |
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Valentine's Day is coming up and I know students will be working on valentines at home. :) We will be exchanging valentines at school, but please remember if you bring in valentines to make sure there is one for each child (we don't want anyone feeling left out)! It is your prerogative if you'd like your child to write names on the valentines (for some children it is hard to read them) but if your child can write out the names and read them, I think it's great practice! Also, please don't send in food or candy, but small trinkets like pencils, erasers, stickers, etc. are absolutely allowed! If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Thank you; have a good week!
1/26/2014
Welcome back! :) It was so great to see the kids again this week!
Here are the Q3 standards we will be assessing; it will be another busy quarter! Also, in science we will focus on weather and in social studies we will study history and change over time.
I'm also attaching this reading newsletter because I love the way it describes the reading strategies. I encourage you to look at it and practice these as you read with your child. So far, the students have learned about schema, making connections, and visualizing. We started our work on asking questions on Thursday and Friday and we will continue to focus on this next week. We tied this in with their speaking and listening standard SLK.1b (Participate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners and continue a conversation through multiple exchanges). The students were able to talk with different partners about their track out and continue the conversations by asking the 5W questions. Using this skill during read alouds, the students have been generating their own questions in order to "dig deeper" into the story. I was impressed by some of the great questions they were asking! It's a wonderful tool for them to use to self-monitor their own reading.
Here are the Q3 standards we will be assessing; it will be another busy quarter! Also, in science we will focus on weather and in social studies we will study history and change over time.
I'm also attaching this reading newsletter because I love the way it describes the reading strategies. I encourage you to look at it and practice these as you read with your child. So far, the students have learned about schema, making connections, and visualizing. We started our work on asking questions on Thursday and Friday and we will continue to focus on this next week. We tied this in with their speaking and listening standard SLK.1b (Participate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners and continue a conversation through multiple exchanges). The students were able to talk with different partners about their track out and continue the conversations by asking the 5W questions. Using this skill during read alouds, the students have been generating their own questions in order to "dig deeper" into the story. I was impressed by some of the great questions they were asking! It's a wonderful tool for them to use to self-monitor their own reading.
q3_standards_for_parents.docx | |
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File Type: | docx |
metacognitioncomprehensionnewsletterforparents.pdf | |
File Size: | 341 kb |
File Type: |
12/19/2013
Dear Families,
Thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart for the thoughtful cards and gifts. I am so appreciative and thankful to work with such wonderful students and families!
It is hard to believe we are halfway through the school year. I was so filled with joy this week when students were asking for second and third PAGES to finish their winter celebration stories. They added details about the vacuum ritual after presents are torn open on Christmas, described candles and fires during Diwali, recounted lighting the menorah during Hanukkah, and shared happy Eid traditions. I was astounded by the content; however, even more impressive were the gigantic smiles of our 5 and 6 year old students, so proud of their hard work! Seeing the children so thrilled about their own accomplishments was a true highlight of this quarter. Thank you for all that you do and your unwavering support; these successes would not be possible without you.
I hope everyone has a happy and hopeful holiday season and track out. I look forward to seeing everyone again in January!
Thank you again and take care,
Ms. O’Donnell
Thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart for the thoughtful cards and gifts. I am so appreciative and thankful to work with such wonderful students and families!
It is hard to believe we are halfway through the school year. I was so filled with joy this week when students were asking for second and third PAGES to finish their winter celebration stories. They added details about the vacuum ritual after presents are torn open on Christmas, described candles and fires during Diwali, recounted lighting the menorah during Hanukkah, and shared happy Eid traditions. I was astounded by the content; however, even more impressive were the gigantic smiles of our 5 and 6 year old students, so proud of their hard work! Seeing the children so thrilled about their own accomplishments was a true highlight of this quarter. Thank you for all that you do and your unwavering support; these successes would not be possible without you.
I hope everyone has a happy and hopeful holiday season and track out. I look forward to seeing everyone again in January!
Thank you again and take care,
Ms. O’Donnell
12/16/2013
- It's hard to believe this will be our last week of 2013 together! Mrs. Brown and I want to wish you all a safe and happy holiday season with your precious little ones. Thank you for for a great first half of Kindergarten!
- On the shape song page that was sent home last week from Wake County, you may have noticed there was a mistake. We talked about it in class but a cube most certainly has six faces, not four. :)
- Our weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
- Thanks! Thanks! Thanks! Thank you so much for sending in supplies for our gingerbread houses!! The kids are very excited about it and we appreciate your help. Also, thank you for donating books to our classroom from the book fair!!! We appreciated it so very much!
- Happy Holidays! Take care! See you next year :)
12/8/2013
Our weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
Student Council is sponsoring a food drive for Wake Relief in Raleigh from Dec. 2-13. We have a box outside our classroom if you wish to donate canned and dry food goods. This is a great connection to our Wants and Needs social studies unit too!
Have a good week,
Ms. O'Donnell
Student Council is sponsoring a food drive for Wake Relief in Raleigh from Dec. 2-13. We have a box outside our classroom if you wish to donate canned and dry food goods. This is a great connection to our Wants and Needs social studies unit too!
Have a good week,
Ms. O'Donnell
12/6/2013
We will be creating gingerbread houses on Thursday, December 19, 2013. If you would be willing or able to donate any of the items (or your time) please sign up at: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C4EA4AC2BABF94-kindergarten1.
We would also still love some fabric scraps (any size, style, or color), inexpensive treasure chest items, or gently used magazines/advertisements if you have any left over from the paper! Thanks in advance if you happen to have any of these items!
It has been a very busy week in kindergarten and the next two weeks will be just as busy! This week in science we extended our properties unit to learn all about states of matter. Today we did an experiment to find out how fast our ice cubes would melt. We learned that solids can change into liquids and the molecules spread out faster when heated! Our class is so smart :) Next week in social studies we will be learning about needs vs. wants. We are continuing to learn about shapes in math (2D/flat/plane and 3D/solid) and reading a lot during our balanced literacy block. In writing, we read My Penguin Osbert (one of my favorite books) and created our very own penguin pets. We wrote about them and they will be outside our classroom for display. We just finished our benchmark math assessments today and our benchmark reading assessments will begin on Monday! Phew! :)
Have a great weekend and thanks for all you do,
Ms. O'Donnell
We would also still love some fabric scraps (any size, style, or color), inexpensive treasure chest items, or gently used magazines/advertisements if you have any left over from the paper! Thanks in advance if you happen to have any of these items!
It has been a very busy week in kindergarten and the next two weeks will be just as busy! This week in science we extended our properties unit to learn all about states of matter. Today we did an experiment to find out how fast our ice cubes would melt. We learned that solids can change into liquids and the molecules spread out faster when heated! Our class is so smart :) Next week in social studies we will be learning about needs vs. wants. We are continuing to learn about shapes in math (2D/flat/plane and 3D/solid) and reading a lot during our balanced literacy block. In writing, we read My Penguin Osbert (one of my favorite books) and created our very own penguin pets. We wrote about them and they will be outside our classroom for display. We just finished our benchmark math assessments today and our benchmark reading assessments will begin on Monday! Phew! :)
Have a great weekend and thanks for all you do,
Ms. O'Donnell
12/4/2013
A message from the third grade team:
Dear Alston Ridge Families,
The third grade students have been busy studying six very important organizations that help our community. Using their research and persuasive writing skills, the students have written multi-paragraph compositions encouraging the children of Alston Ridge to donate to these valuable groups. On December 11th, 12th, or 13th, please consider sending in a small donation to support Make-a-Wish, The American Heart Association, Wake County Animal Shelter, The Raleigh/Durham Caged Bird Society, Ronald McDonald House, or St Jude’s. If you plan to write checks, please make them out to the organizations. The third grade students thank you for helping raise funds for these important organizations.
Thank you!
ARE Third Grade
Dear Alston Ridge Families,
The third grade students have been busy studying six very important organizations that help our community. Using their research and persuasive writing skills, the students have written multi-paragraph compositions encouraging the children of Alston Ridge to donate to these valuable groups. On December 11th, 12th, or 13th, please consider sending in a small donation to support Make-a-Wish, The American Heart Association, Wake County Animal Shelter, The Raleigh/Durham Caged Bird Society, Ronald McDonald House, or St Jude’s. If you plan to write checks, please make them out to the organizations. The third grade students thank you for helping raise funds for these important organizations.
Thank you!
ARE Third Grade
12/1/2013
Happy December!
Keep an eye out for December Homework and important information about our upcoming reading assessments. These will be sent home tomorrow. Additional options for homework have been uploaded and are located under the "homework" tab.
**If you have any gently used ads or magazines, please send them in! The students will be learning about needs and wants in our next Social Studies unit. We would also be very grateful for any scraps of fabric for our simile mittens!
**Mid-Year Wish List: Our classroom wish list has been updated if you are willing and able to donate any of the items. Thanks in advance!
**A sign up genius for our Gingerbread Houses will be coming soon! We will be creating our Gingerbread Houses on 12/19/2013. :)
Have a great week,
Ms. O'Donnell
Keep an eye out for December Homework and important information about our upcoming reading assessments. These will be sent home tomorrow. Additional options for homework have been uploaded and are located under the "homework" tab.
**If you have any gently used ads or magazines, please send them in! The students will be learning about needs and wants in our next Social Studies unit. We would also be very grateful for any scraps of fabric for our simile mittens!
**Mid-Year Wish List: Our classroom wish list has been updated if you are willing and able to donate any of the items. Thanks in advance!
**A sign up genius for our Gingerbread Houses will be coming soon! We will be creating our Gingerbread Houses on 12/19/2013. :)
Have a great week,
Ms. O'Donnell
11/24/2013
Dear Sailor Families,
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded. We will be talking a lot this week about what I consider to be a life-long skill of being thankful and appreciative of the wonderful people around us. With that being said, I want to say THANK YOU very much for all you do. I greatly enjoy working with you and your children each day!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Ms. O'Donnell
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded. We will be talking a lot this week about what I consider to be a life-long skill of being thankful and appreciative of the wonderful people around us. With that being said, I want to say THANK YOU very much for all you do. I greatly enjoy working with you and your children each day!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Ms. O'Donnell
11/18/2013
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
The "Turkeys in Disguise" were adorable! Thank you so much for your help with this homework assignment!
Have a great week,
Ms. O'Donnell
The "Turkeys in Disguise" were adorable! Thank you so much for your help with this homework assignment!
Have a great week,
Ms. O'Donnell
11/11/2013
I hope you had a wonderful long weekend!
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
I have also included a file below. It is a letter regarding the middle of the year assessments that will be approaching in the beginning of December. The tasks that your child will be tested on are explained. A hard copy will be sent home soon, but I wanted you to have access to this information early.
Have a great week,
Ms. O'Donnell
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
I have also included a file below. It is a letter regarding the middle of the year assessments that will be approaching in the beginning of December. The tasks that your child will be tested on are explained. A hard copy will be sent home soon, but I wanted you to have access to this information early.
Have a great week,
Ms. O'Donnell
moy_assessments_letter_to_parents.docx | |
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File Type: | docx |
10/30/2013
It is a busy week! I added a few "extras" to October homework if you're looking for some supplemental work this week. Other things to practice: sight words, counting syllables, writing sentences (with capitals and punctuation), writing teen numbers (out of order), and counting to 100.
Our trip to the farm was wonderful! Thank you to our parent chaperones!
If you'd like to volunteer to help in the media center or during center time, please sign up for a date/time via the link below.
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C4EA4AC2BABF94-q2kindergarten
Our trip to the farm was wonderful! Thank you to our parent chaperones!
If you'd like to volunteer to help in the media center or during center time, please sign up for a date/time via the link below.
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C4EA4AC2BABF94-q2kindergarten
10/27/2013
Hello! It is going to be a busy week! :) The newsletter has been uploaded for this week, along with a pdf file about the new report cards. As far as we know, they will be sent home this Friday. Please see below for information about the field trip on Tuesday and Red Ribbon Week.
We won the first spirit stick! Go SAILORS!
Have a wonderful week!
Ms. O'Donnell
We won the first spirit stick! Go SAILORS!
Have a wonderful week!
Ms. O'Donnell
10/23/2013
Dear Parents,
See below for our field trip itinerary. Please send a bagged lunch with your child on October 29, 2013. Please label your child's lunch bag with his/her name. Also, please consider the weather when dressing your child that morning. In the past, the farm has been a bit muddy so you may want to send your child in old sneakers or boots. If you are chaperoning, please meet us at the farm at 10:00.
THANK YOU! :)
Ganyard Farms Itinerary
9:15 Load Buses
9:30 Leave Alston Ridge Elementary
10:00 Arrive at Ganyard Hill Farm
10:15 Self- guided tour of the farm (corn pit, hay slide, cotton picking, corn maze, hay ride)
Lunches:
11:00 – 11:30 Bennett/O’Donnell
11:30 – 12:00 Crow/Bram
After Lunch – Continue self-guided tour and students will pick their pumpkin to take home... one that they can carry on ther own :)
12:45 Meet by the buses (after a bathroom break)
1:00 Leave Ganyard Farm
1:30 Arrive back at Alston Ridge
Parents are not allowed to check their student out at the farm; they must come back to the school and check them out in the office. THANK YOU!
See below for our field trip itinerary. Please send a bagged lunch with your child on October 29, 2013. Please label your child's lunch bag with his/her name. Also, please consider the weather when dressing your child that morning. In the past, the farm has been a bit muddy so you may want to send your child in old sneakers or boots. If you are chaperoning, please meet us at the farm at 10:00.
THANK YOU! :)
Ganyard Farms Itinerary
9:15 Load Buses
9:30 Leave Alston Ridge Elementary
10:00 Arrive at Ganyard Hill Farm
10:15 Self- guided tour of the farm (corn pit, hay slide, cotton picking, corn maze, hay ride)
Lunches:
11:00 – 11:30 Bennett/O’Donnell
11:30 – 12:00 Crow/Bram
After Lunch – Continue self-guided tour and students will pick their pumpkin to take home... one that they can carry on ther own :)
12:45 Meet by the buses (after a bathroom break)
1:00 Leave Ganyard Farm
1:30 Arrive back at Alston Ridge
Parents are not allowed to check their student out at the farm; they must come back to the school and check them out in the office. THANK YOU!
10/20/2013
Dear Parents,
Welcome back! I hope all of the children had a wonderful track out! I am looking forward to seeing them tomorrow. :) Our specials schedule has changed for the second quarter - please see the "daily schedule" tab. The weekly newsletter has been posted. We would also love some fun, new, and inexpensive items for our treasure chest. This could include stickers, neat pens/markers/notebooks, bookmarks, etc. Thank you in advance for your help!
Also, please see below for some important dates:
Friday, October 25-Box Tops are due
Monday, October 28-Friday, November 1 is Red Ribbon Week. The themes for each day will be as follows:
Monday: Celebrate Red Ribbon Week (wear red)
Tuesday: Team Up Against Drugs (wear team apparel)
Wednesday: Don't Get Tied Up With Drugs (wear a tie)
Thursday: Put a Cap on Drugs (wear a hat)
Friday: Sock It To Drugs (wear crazy socks)
Tuesday, October 29- Field Trip to Ganyard Farm *please remember to pack a lunch for your child*
Saturday, November 2 - Fall Beautification Day
Friday, November 8 -Early Release
Monday, November 11-No School
Wednesday, November 13 - Muffins for Mom - 8-9 in the cafeteria
Welcome back! I hope all of the children had a wonderful track out! I am looking forward to seeing them tomorrow. :) Our specials schedule has changed for the second quarter - please see the "daily schedule" tab. The weekly newsletter has been posted. We would also love some fun, new, and inexpensive items for our treasure chest. This could include stickers, neat pens/markers/notebooks, bookmarks, etc. Thank you in advance for your help!
Also, please see below for some important dates:
Friday, October 25-Box Tops are due
Monday, October 28-Friday, November 1 is Red Ribbon Week. The themes for each day will be as follows:
Monday: Celebrate Red Ribbon Week (wear red)
Tuesday: Team Up Against Drugs (wear team apparel)
Wednesday: Don't Get Tied Up With Drugs (wear a tie)
Thursday: Put a Cap on Drugs (wear a hat)
Friday: Sock It To Drugs (wear crazy socks)
Tuesday, October 29- Field Trip to Ganyard Farm *please remember to pack a lunch for your child*
Saturday, November 2 - Fall Beautification Day
Friday, November 8 -Early Release
Monday, November 11-No School
Wednesday, November 13 - Muffins for Mom - 8-9 in the cafeteria
kindergarten links
11 Free Reading Websites for Kids
http://blog.reallygoodstuff.com/11-free-reading-websites-for-kids/12/
Stories on the Web
There are many stories for children on the internet! These are a few sites that your family may enjoy. However, snuggling up with a good book and letting your child turn the pages still can't be beat!
Games and practicing skills
http://www.kidport.com/
http://pbskids.org/
http://www.scholastic.com/kids/
Phonics and Reading:
http://www.starfall.com/ - Starfall's ABC section teaches letter-sound relationships by providing a kid-friendly navigation system that explicitly focuses on each letter of the alphabet. This explicit instruction is most effective in kindergarten when it is combined with exercises in phonemic awareness. When learning to read, students who understand the basic sounds of the language can apply letter-sound relations with greater ease. It is also essential to practice writing in kindergarten because it helps to reinforce phonics and develop reading skills. Starfall's free ABC printouts provide practice in writing and have suggestions for phonemic awareness activities.
www.pbskids.org/curiousgeorge/
www.seussville.com
Math
www.IXL.com
www.factmonster.com
http://www.oswego.org/ocsd-web/games/Mathmagician/cathymath.html
http://www.mathmastery.com/cyberchallenge/index.cfm
http://www.mathfactcafe.com/
http://www.aplusmath.com
http://www.teachrkids.com/
http://blog.reallygoodstuff.com/11-free-reading-websites-for-kids/12/
Stories on the Web
There are many stories for children on the internet! These are a few sites that your family may enjoy. However, snuggling up with a good book and letting your child turn the pages still can't be beat!
- Bedtime Stories- Stories to read aloud (You will need to scroll down to see an index of the stories.)
- Kids Korner
- Mother Goose - Two traditional stories and 1 nursery rhyme
- The North Star - Choose a character and then follow along!
- Old Time Fairy Tales
- Sebastian the Swan
- Story Bear's Stories
- www.storybrooklane.org.
- Story Books On Line
- Story Box
- Story Hour
- Story Place - Stories with corresponding online and printable activities
Games and practicing skills
http://www.kidport.com/
http://pbskids.org/
http://www.scholastic.com/kids/
Phonics and Reading:
http://www.starfall.com/ - Starfall's ABC section teaches letter-sound relationships by providing a kid-friendly navigation system that explicitly focuses on each letter of the alphabet. This explicit instruction is most effective in kindergarten when it is combined with exercises in phonemic awareness. When learning to read, students who understand the basic sounds of the language can apply letter-sound relations with greater ease. It is also essential to practice writing in kindergarten because it helps to reinforce phonics and develop reading skills. Starfall's free ABC printouts provide practice in writing and have suggestions for phonemic awareness activities.
www.pbskids.org/curiousgeorge/
www.seussville.com
Math
www.IXL.com
www.factmonster.com
http://www.oswego.org/ocsd-web/games/Mathmagician/cathymath.html
http://www.mathmastery.com/cyberchallenge/index.cfm
http://www.mathfactcafe.com/
http://www.aplusmath.com
http://www.teachrkids.com/
9/30/2013
The Quarter 2 Standards are posted :)
9/29/2013
Thank you for such a wonderful quarter!
I look forward to meeting with many of you tomorrow :)
The kindergarten team elected to not send "track out packets" due to our lack of copies and the plethora of online resources. If you have any questions, please email me. I do check my email periodically over track out.
THANK YOU again for everything! Have a great break!
Ms. O'Donnell
I look forward to meeting with many of you tomorrow :)
The kindergarten team elected to not send "track out packets" due to our lack of copies and the plethora of online resources. If you have any questions, please email me. I do check my email periodically over track out.
THANK YOU again for everything! Have a great break!
Ms. O'Donnell
9/22/2013
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
Our field trip information has been sent home; please let me know if you would like to be a chaperone for this trip. The cost is $14 for students and $10 for chaperones.
Have a wonderful week!
Ms. O'Donnell
Our field trip information has been sent home; please let me know if you would like to be a chaperone for this trip. The cost is $14 for students and $10 for chaperones.
Have a wonderful week!
Ms. O'Donnell
9/17/2013
WOW! Thank you so much for filling out the family culture survey.
I love that we have families from all over the world! We will be learning about various cultures, holidays, and traditions as the year progresses. Thanks again!
I love that we have families from all over the world! We will be learning about various cultures, holidays, and traditions as the year progresses. Thanks again!
9/15/2013
Thanks for such wonderful family trees! They will be in the hallway this week with the students' shape family portraits. :)
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
Have a fantastic week,
Ms. O'Donnell
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
Have a fantastic week,
Ms. O'Donnell
9/11/2013
One last reminder! :) Scholastic book orders are due 9/13 so the books can get to you before track-out. Our class code is L2BF4 if you'd like to order anything.
9/11/2013
Per school board policy, we held a school-wide moment of silence this morning in honor of Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance. With such young children, I am guided by this quote from Fred Rogers: “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”
So in kindergarten, we do not go into detail about what happened on 9/11 or the magnitude of the event. This morning, we simply talked about the people who help us and keep us safe. A few students connected this to our "citizenship" unit in social studies. :)
Have a wonderful day,
Ms. O'Donnell
So in kindergarten, we do not go into detail about what happened on 9/11 or the magnitude of the event. This morning, we simply talked about the people who help us and keep us safe. A few students connected this to our "citizenship" unit in social studies. :)
Have a wonderful day,
Ms. O'Donnell
9/9/2013
Please sign up for a fall conference at:
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C4EA4AC2BABF94-kindergarten. If we have already met, there is no need to schedule an additional conference. An email has been sent out through signupgenuis. If you did not receive an email AND we have not conferenced yet, please let me know as soon as possible.
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
"Family Tree" Homework is due Thursday, September 12. I look forward to seeing these beautiful family trees!
Have a wonderful week!
Ms. O'Donnell
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C4EA4AC2BABF94-kindergarten. If we have already met, there is no need to schedule an additional conference. An email has been sent out through signupgenuis. If you did not receive an email AND we have not conferenced yet, please let me know as soon as possible.
The weekly newsletter has been uploaded.
"Family Tree" Homework is due Thursday, September 12. I look forward to seeing these beautiful family trees!
Have a wonderful week!
Ms. O'Donnell
9/5/2013
The media specialist would love additional help checking in books, assisting students as they find books on shelves, and helping students with checkout. During Quarter 1, we go to the media center on Thursdays from 1:00-1:45. If you are interested in helping, please send me an email and I will pass your information along!
Have a good day,
Ms. O'Donnell
Have a good day,
Ms. O'Donnell
9/1/2013
Please note: Our lunch time has been changed to 11:00-11:30.
The September homework calendar and reading log has been uploaded.
The weekly newsletter for 9/3/2013 has been uploaded.
Have a great weekend!
Ms. O'Donnell
The September homework calendar and reading log has been uploaded.
The weekly newsletter for 9/3/2013 has been uploaded.
Have a great weekend!
Ms. O'Donnell
8/30/2013
Happy Labor Day Weekend!
Morning work and center work was sent home today. Please review the work with your child and go over any skills that need extra practice. An extra page was added to your child's blue folder that included lowercase and capital letters. This is great practice for Letter Naming Fluency (tested throughout the year). If you have a stopwatch or timer, see how many letters they can read in one minute. Practice throughout the month and when they get really good at it, see how quickly they can read the sounds. We assess this because research shows that when children can read their letters and sounds quickly, it is easier for them to read and write. It is very important that the students learn their letters and sounds before the end of the first quarter. Please let me know if you have any questions about this!
Thanks for sending the blue folders each Friday!
The students learned that "good readers read everything" so don't be surprised if they are pointing out the windows in the car trying to read signs and symbols. This is good! Environmental print is a great way to start the reading process. We have an environmental print ABC book that we have been reading in class.
Have a wonderful weekend and the weekly newsletter will be posted in the "Weekly Newsletter" section on the left. I will no longer be sending home paper copies since this website is now linked to the ARE website.
Thanks again!
Ms. O'Donnell
Morning work and center work was sent home today. Please review the work with your child and go over any skills that need extra practice. An extra page was added to your child's blue folder that included lowercase and capital letters. This is great practice for Letter Naming Fluency (tested throughout the year). If you have a stopwatch or timer, see how many letters they can read in one minute. Practice throughout the month and when they get really good at it, see how quickly they can read the sounds. We assess this because research shows that when children can read their letters and sounds quickly, it is easier for them to read and write. It is very important that the students learn their letters and sounds before the end of the first quarter. Please let me know if you have any questions about this!
Thanks for sending the blue folders each Friday!
The students learned that "good readers read everything" so don't be surprised if they are pointing out the windows in the car trying to read signs and symbols. This is good! Environmental print is a great way to start the reading process. We have an environmental print ABC book that we have been reading in class.
Have a wonderful weekend and the weekly newsletter will be posted in the "Weekly Newsletter" section on the left. I will no longer be sending home paper copies since this website is now linked to the ARE website.
Thanks again!
Ms. O'Donnell
8/20/2013
Welcome to our class website!
Have a wonderful week!
Ms. O'Donnell
Have a wonderful week!
Ms. O'Donnell