My Philosophy


I believe it is important to create a community where all learners feel safe, respected and have a sense of belonging. It is important to focus equally on the social, emotional and academic needs of students. I strive to meet children where they're at by differentiating instruction, choosing developmentally appropriate activities and providing a balance between teacher-directed and self-directed learning. I value play, the arts, movement, creativity and laughter as important and meaningful parts of the learning process for children.



Thursday, January 31, 2013

Pen Pals From Gilford New Hampshire!

Firefly First Grade has had a very exciting week!  We received our first letters from our pen pals in Gilford, New Hampshire.  Our pen pals are students of Brendan's aunt, who teaches first grade in Gilford. Our pen pals' first letters told us all about Gilford, New Hampshire and many of the things they like.  We sent our first letters back this week with a picture of ourselves and all the things we like to do here in Shelburne.  What a fun opportunity this will be for us to make new friends, learn about another community, and practice our letter writing skills!

We will be having a special celebration at the end of the school day on Valentine's Day.  Students are welcome to use the class list sent home in last week's Friday Folder to make cards for their classmates.  If you child is making cards, please make sure child makes a card for every child in the class.  We will be creating bags the week before, so students may bring their cards in anytime after Thurs., February 7th.

Wow!  Firefly First Grade got a huge compliment from Mrs. Nelson, our gym teacher, this week.  She announced that ALL first grade Fireflies completed a 10 minute run without stopping or walking once!  Great job class.

Our class also received many compliments during our third math studio on Thursday!  One of the most meaningful compliments they received was from a teacher who noticed that every student justified their reasoning when responding to a question.  Your children were focused, and consistently used their habits of mind and interaction throughout the lesson.  They were amazing!

I have been absolutely amazed by the projects that have been coming in this week.  Students have been building different kinds of bridges, conducting experiments to share, creating penguin dioramas filled with interesting penguin facts, and creating songs/dances  about their learning.  Thanks so much for supporting this at home.  It's a wonderful way for them to apply their learning to new experiences.

On Monday, February 11th the Firefly Team will be going on a field trip to the Flynn Theater to see "Medicine Bear".  Please make sure your child is dressed appropriately for a field trip that day.

The SCS book fair is coming up in a couple weeks.  Check this week's Friday Folder for the book fair flyer!



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