Welcome to Mrs. Hill's page! 2015/2016

Welcome back!

I would like to express how excited I am to begin the 2015-2016 school year with the grade 4 students.  I look forward to getting to know each student as a unique and individual learner, and we will no doubt have many great and valuable experiences throughout the year.  I have the pleasure of sharing the grade 4 students with Mrs. Abraham this year; she will be teaching math, social studies, health and phys. ed, and I will be teaching language arts, science, art and music.  For the first few weeks of school, the main focus will be to establish a caring and encouraging classroom.  Students will play a big part in developing a culture of trust and mutual respect.  I believe that in order for students to learn, take chances and achieve their best, they first need to feel safe and supported in their environment.  This points of course will be reinforced throughout the school year.

Agenda

Students will have the responsibility of recording reminders, assignments and other relevant information in their agendas on a daily basis.  They are required to show the agenda to their parent/guardian each night and return it to school with a parent signature the next day.  This is the best way to keep students on top of their studies, keep parents informed and helps students to develop good organization skills.  I am also using a communication program called Class Dojo, which keeps teacher and parents connected through technology.  The information for this program is provided to parents and students at the beginning of the school year.

Homework

Students should read every night for a minimum of 20 minutes.  They may also have weekly spelling/vocabulary practice with words I have assigned them, as well as science vocabulary words from each unit.

Most lessons and assignments are designed to give students ample time to complete work in the classroom.  Very rarely will I assign extra work that is to be completed at home.  Students may be required to put in extra efforts outside of class time if they are working on a large project.

Parents

I have an open door policy, in which parents are encouraged to communicate their thoughts and concerns about their child's progress/school experience.  The best way to contact me is by email.  Parents can stay connected with their child's academic progress through the Parent Portal for PowerSchool.  Login information is typically provided for parents at the beginning of the year in a package that students will bring home.  Parent volunteers are encouraged and welcomed with open arms!  There are many opportunities to help with our class throughout the year.

Nutrition

A healthy body is required to operate a healthy mind.  I welcome healthy and nutritious snacks in my classroom and will not permit students to consume junk food as snacks during the 2 nutrition breaks throughout the day.  The following are some of the "prohibited" items that will be thrown out if students bring them: pop, energy drinks, sugar sticks, and anything that has an overtly high sugar content.  **Students should bring a refillable waterbottle with them to school to help them stay hydrated throughout the day.

For further information on school policies, please see the school's student handbook provided through the following link:  http://beiseker.rockyview.ab.ca/students I look forward to working with your child and getting to know you all throughout the year!

Best Regards,

Kim Hill