Expectations

= EXPECTATIONS =

Behavior:
I believe the three most important rules are

Show Responsibility
I am a very positive reinforcement type of teacher. That doesn’t mean I give candy out for good behavior. On the contrary, I offer verbal praises and fun for all as a group for appropriate behavior. I have found over the years that the more the students hear “don’t,” the more they respond negatively. I try to form my expectations in a positive fashion such as, “Say something nice to her now,” instead of “Don’t talk mean to each other.” “I’m sorry” will never be enough in my classroom, so students will be instructed to say why they are sorry. There will be no name calling in our class and Shut Up is not used.

If classroom behavior is distracting others, then it is important enough to address while in class. If a student is downright mean or breaks an important school rule, you will be notified. If I feel a particular behavior is inappropriate and continuous, you will be contacted and your child will be asked to stay after school and write an essay explaining their behavior, why they did it, and how they should act from then on. Writing it themselves is a much better “remembering” tool.

Homework:
Personally, I believe homework is for thought provoking opportunities outside of school and the necessity for organizational skills. I think students learn best when they know they are responsible for their best effort. Because fourth grade is a crucial turning point in forming routines for upper grades, I will be practicing their organizational skills inside and out of the classroom. I do not feel heavy homework nightly is necessary because many parents have their children taking other classes after school. However, I do believe in practicing responsibility as a routine. **//The only folder the students will carry home is the homework folder. Please check their homework folder after their homework has been completed and initial.//** It is possible for them NOT to have homework, but there still may be something for communication to you. In addition to this, it is important your child to read for at least 20 minutes a night at home in order to continuously improve and advance their reading/comprehension skills. = =