Mrs. Kite’s First Grade Class Welcome, Parents!

Welcome to First Grade!  First graders are full of energy and are enthusiastic about learning. I want to tap into that energy and increase their enthusiasm by providing positive, quality learning experiences.

My Dedication  I dedicate my time and talents to being a positive influence on each of my students.  I will create a classroom that is structured, nurturing and engaging.  I will teach with the belief that all students can (and will) succeed.  I pledge to instill optimum learning in academics and self-discipline.  I dedicate my abilities to the world’s most important job!

Class Subjects  The subjects taught during first grade are:  Reading  Spelling  Grammar/Writing  Math  Science/Social Studies/Health  Music, Spanish, and Computer

Reading  Research indicates there are five critical components to reading instruction. All five components are essential. (Phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension).  These components are all filtered into our basal reading program, Scott- Foresman.

Reading  In an effort to honor our protected reading block, please try to make appointments after school hours.

Spelling  Our spelling program is integrated with our Scott Foresman reading series. You will receive a weekly list of words. Application of the weekly words and specific skills are taught through the daily lessons.

Math  Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Basal Series  It is challenging!!!  Problem solving and analytic reasoning are included in daily skills.

Science  We use an inquiry- based, hands–on science program. We will study: New Plants Balance and Motion Solids and Liquid Animals Two by Two

Music, Spanish, and Computer  The students will attend one of these classes each day for thirty minutes.  You will receive a progress report from these teachers. A participation and conduct score will be assessed.

Our Classroom  Our classroom is a positive, nurturing, happy place to be. In our classroom, we have rules to help us get along with each other.  Our class rules are:  Be respectful of adults, of other classmates and of our learning time.  Be organized and responsible.

Communication  We will have a Take Home folder that students will bring home daily with class work, homework sheets, and other information. Please empty ALL papers from the folder unless otherwise indicated.  IS THIS TOO MUCH INFORMATION AT ONCE? Don’t worry I will send home a weekly newsletter in your child’s conduct folder and you can find plenty of information on my school website page.  me at:

Homework  No written homework is given in first grade.  Students should read an Accelerated Reader Book each night.  Spelling list will be sent home on Mondays. You will also find Spelling Words and Reading Sentences/Words on my school webpage.  Review all papers sent home daily in “Take Home” folder.

Tardiness  School starts at 8:00 A.M.  If your child isn’t in the classroom by 8:05, he/she must check in at the school office before coming to class.  Three tardies will result in a notice from the principal and after-school detention.

Volunteers  I look forward to seeing you at school. I will need parents to be here for special activities, to pull resources, to assist with parties and to attend field trips. I will send notes when a volunteer is needed in the classroom. There are additional opportunities for volunteering in school-wide activities (Learn- a-thon, Spring Fling, Teacher Treats, etc...)

I’m looking forward to great year! Together- We can make a Difference!