1. Second Grade Overview 2017 - 2018

2. Teaching Philosophy
Mrs. Maher works to create a classroom community of learners where each child is treated with respect and where the needs of each child is addressed. Because children learn in a variety of ways, I will work to incorporate different teaching approaches to address all learners. Individuality and creativity are nurtured in my classroom.

3. Grade Level Expectations
Students will be prepared for class every day
Students will do their best
Students will follow the school rules
Students will respect classmates’ learning by doing their own work quietly and independently
School behavior guidelines are based on the PBIS framework and Whole Brain Teaching that the entire school body will follow

4. Classroom Expectations
Students will earn points towards a class reward by following class rules. Marbles will be added to the marble jar when classroom rules are being followed either individually or collectively.
Individual rewards can also be earned such as lunch with the teacher, extra recess, and loot towards a prize from the treasure chest.

5. Classroom Behavior Management
Tier 1: Redirect and reteach the classroom rule
Tier 2: Conference with teacher
Tier 3: Call parent to discuss or schedule a conference
Tier 4: Referral to principal and/or guidance counselor

6. Rewards and Incentives
Students can earn individual and class rewards
Extra recess for the class
Lucketts Loot
Lunch and movie in the classroom
Friday Fun
Reward from the Treasure Chest

7. Curriculum Overview
Language Arts – reading, writing, word study. We are using Units of Study this year. Reading and Writing Workshop.
Math – Guided Math: hands on learning, Math Centers, Envision Math, electronic assessments
Science/Social – Alternate 2 week study units

8. Grading
Students will be marked in the content areas of Reading, Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Science, Health, Art, Music, and PE E/4 = Exceeds the benchmark (above grade level performance on assessments) M/3 = Meets the benchmark P/2 = Progressing toward the benchmark B/1= Below the benchmark

9. Homework Agenda Parental Support
Nightly Reading – at least 15 minutes-Students will bring home a book to read in a pouch. Parents please sign off and participate with your child in the reading process.
Word Study – Test on Fridays
Math – weekly-unit tests and formative assessments
Science/Social Science as needed-unit tests

10. Communication
Monthly newsletter, bi-weekly . Please contact Mrs. Maher with any immediate questions and concerns at or Please if your child is sick or will be out of school for an extended period of time. Also let the office know. Dismissal changes need to be communicated by 2:00 pm to the office.

11. Miscellaneous
The Second Grade will be going on one field trip this year. (TBD)
There will be 2 class parties – Winter and end of the year

12. Snacks
Healthy snacks and bottles of water are allowed

13. Reminders Please sign up for a parent-teacher conference
Please complete the transportation form for dismissal procedures for your child.
Volunteers are welcomed
Thank you for coming tonight. We look forward to a great year together!