Grade 1

Click here to see an overview of the curriculum of this grade.
Click here to view the School Handbook (general policies for grades K through 8)
Click here to see photos from 1st Grade
Click here to read the quarterly Curriculum News
Click here to see the monthly classroom news for first grade.

Grade 1 Policies

Assessment

Informal and formal assessment which may include teacher observation, writing samples, workbook pages, activities, and projects will be combined to assess each child. Children may be asked to correct a mistake in class to better understand their error. The children are told that mistakes are a part of learning and we always emphasize correct items. The ability of a child to apply the skills and knowledge they have learned is the goal. Correct answers and effort will be acknowledged. An I on a paper indicates "The child needs to check this paper, complete it and return it to us." Each child will have a portfolio which will include samplings of their work and formal assessments.

Homework

Homework will be assigned on Monday of each week beginning in October. All homework is to be handed in on Friday unless otherwise stated. Homework assignments will be handed out in written form each week. Homework will reinforce classroom lessons, prepare for upcoming lessons and develop independent study skills. Children should continue to read at home as often as possible.

Classroom Rules

The children discussed and decided which rules were necessary for our classroom. These rules are posted in the class and discussed when necessary. When a problem arises, children are helped to see that another way to behave is more appropriate. For the learning process to succeed, each person in the classroom must be respected. Through guidance and encouragement, students can understand and better manage their behavior.

Classroom Work

The class days will be filled with activities including whole class and small group instruction, learning centers, computer activities and group work. An integrated approach based on the themes developed from our reading book and the interests of the class will determine the direction of the activities. A comfortable climate filled with flexible and exciting learning experiences will help each child meet with success and foster a life-long love of learning.

Each class is comprised of children with many different learning styles and needs. Opportunities will be available which will help the children use their strengths and work through any difficulties they may encounter. Children are encouraged to learn to take more responsibility for their learning. Activities and projects will be offered to meet the needs of children who at times, may be at a different level than his or her classmates. We will encourage each child to do their work neatly and to the best of their ability. Students are expected to complete their work in the classroom. If a child has not finished an activity they will be dealt with on an individual basis.

Birthdays

Birthdays are always fun to celebrate with your classmates and teachers. The birthday child may wear play clothes on or near their birthday. If you would like to send in a small treat to share, we will enjoy these at lunch. If invitations are to be handed out at school, please be sure all the boys or all the girls are invited to avoid any hurt feelings. Summer birthdays may be celebrated in September or June.

Star Student of the Week

One child per week will be chosen at random to be our Star Student. Each day they are encouraged to bring in something or someone, an activity, a favorite book, souvenirs... to share with the class. (Also, if due to special circumstances your child would benefit from being our Star Student during a particular week, let us know.) Please send in your child's picture if you have not already done so.

Morning Recess Snacks

Please help your child choose a healthy snack for morning recess.

Illness

If your child is absent for a long period of time, We will send home a packet of work for them to complete and return to school.

Uniforms

Please label uniforms to avoid any confusion. On half days play clothes may be worn.

Visitors and Volunteers

Anyone coming into the school to visit or volunteer must report to the office, sign in and pick up a badge. When leaving, the badge is to be returned when signing out in the office.

Specials

• Art will be on Tuesday.
• Physical Education will be on Wednesday.
• Music will be on Thursday.
• Library will be on Thursday.

Communication

Do not put First Grade papers or notes for us in the Wednesday Envelope.

If you or your child have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to write a note, email, call the school or call us at home.

Mrs. Sandy Hudson and Mrs. Cheryl Dolan

Classroom News

We publish a newsletter per month, in addition to the quarterly Curriculum News. Click on the date of the newsletter, below, to read it. Note: You'll need Adobe Acrobat Reader to read the newsletters. Click here to get it