Heroes come in many shapes and sizes...

Hello parents,
What a super fall we're having.  Our classroom is running like a well oiled machine.  Your students have learned all of the routines and are attacking every challenge I throw their way with enthusiasm and determination.  Selecting a "Hero of the Week" has been a feat as there are many qualified students every week.  I'm always on the look out for a child who is doing HIS or HER personal best.  I think we've had some dynamite heroes so far.  

Speaking of heroes, have you heard about our QUEST?  Click HERE to visit the QUEST page.  Here you'll find all kinds of opportunities for your fourth grader to challenge him or herself while learning new things, stretching his or her skills, and having FUN!  Believe it or not, I've already had two students complete their first quest.  We had a delightful, celebratory lunch together.  They were even lucky enough to sample my "somewhat famous" chocolate chip cookies.  

All students seem like they are handling the demands of fourth grade without too much stress.  Is this the case in your home?  Let me know if you become concerned about work load, grades, stress, friendships, etc.  I'm always available to help troubleshoot.  

Heroes do come in many shapes and sizes.  We're reading about one such hero right now in the classroom.  She is an unlikely heroine really.  The smallest character in the famous novel by E.B. White, Charlotte puts her own needs aside to save that humble pig named Wilbur.  The students have devoured every page of this text.  Despite the rigor and challenge the students have moved through every chapter hungry to find out what would happen next.  They are handling the vocabulary and the descriptive writing of Charlotte's Web with great success.  We'll celebrate the culmination of this novel study on Halloween when the students will watch the movie.  They are over-the-moon excited to see the movie and secretly, I can't wait for them to see the movie too.  The movie really is well done but I know they won't be satisfied with it.  Kids are smart.  They always prefer a beautifully crafted novel over a movie, even a good one!  We'll keep the festivities simple.  I'll bring in some popcorn to help make the day a little more special.

Have you heard about our NORTHEAST REGION radio commercials?   Our students are researching the 11 states of the Northeast region.  Then, they've collaborated to produce a one minute radio commercial attracting tourists to the Northeast.  They are working on developing research skills, reading skills, writing skills, and speaking skills.  Check back soon and I'll share some of those fantastic ads right here!

I'm looking forward to conference week.  Watch your inbox for a communication from me from Sign Up Genius.  If the times available don't work for you, jot me a note and we'll make arrangements to meet at another time.

​As always, thanks for all that you're doing to support learning in your homes!

Thanks so much!
​Marie