Information from Mrs. Schuler

Are the planners all that important?

Yes, planners are very important. They are used to record homework, upcoming tests, quizzes, or projects. This helps the fourth grader with organization. It is also an excellent way for parents and teachers to communicate.

What happens if my 3rd grade child does not get his/her planner initialed by a parent?

Each day a planner is not initialed, a mark is put in the grade book. These marks will affect the WORK HABITS part of the report card. Getting the planner initialed is part of the homework routine. I understand that a student may forget to have it signed once or twice, but this should not become a habit .

When do you give homework?

Homework is given everyday except Fridays. Students in my class may need to study over the weekend or work on reports and projects. However, regular homework assignments will not be given. We all need time to enjoy our families!

What do I do if my child is absent?

The day that your child returns from his/her absence, please have a written note excusing your child. You may also e-mail the note to me if you prefer. The school Social Worker keeps track of "unexcused" absences. You may be contacted by him if you do not comply!

When do papers come home ?

Tuesday is Paper day! Every Tuesday your child will receive papers that have been done in class, along with the previous week's homework. Please take time to look over these with your child and help him/her to minimize future errors. Tests are returned as soon as I have scored them.

Who grades my child's papers?

All is grading is done by myself. I will have adult volunteers who may check class practice or homework papers. However, any paper receiving a grade is corrected by me. Being human, I do sometimes make mistakes. Please have your child let me know if they feel that an error has been made on my part. If i have errored, I will correct it! (that is, If I have erred, I will correct it!)

What are the classroom rules?

Our class has developed the "Way of Work" for our classroom community. The children have chosen the following rules:

        1. Always listen to the person speaking.

        2. Respect adults and classmates.

        3. Treat others with kindness - be helpful.

        4. Pay attention.

        5. Always do your best!

What happens if ground rules are not followed?

Fourth grade is such an important year that I feel that our class is responsible for helping each other. This means that a student must not keep another child from learning and doing his/her best. If a student chooses to disrespect another person, or he or she is preventing others from learning, that student will be warned. If the child continues to have difficulty, they will receive a conduct check and it will be noted in their planner. (Conduct checks or lack of them determines your child's Conduct grade on the Report Card.) If the difficulty is ongoing, parents will be notified and we can discuss what action should be taken. I have had very few discipline problems over the years. Most students who come from homes where education is valued want to do well.

When do you give progress reports?

I will send home a midterm progress report midway through each grading period, so that you may monitor your child's progress. These reports should be signed by you and returned to school.

Can students turn in late work?

Yes! I give work for one reason only--for the student to learn! Work not completed in class, should go home as extra homework and returned to me the next day. If is not returned the next day that the child is in attendance, points may be taken off the final grade because it is late. However, a late grade is better than a zero--And, hopefully, more learning has taken place! * Please note that there are no "Do Overs" in third grade. Occasionally "Opportunities" (Extra Credit) may however, be offered.

How do you feel about birthday celebrations?

Your child may bring in a healthy snack (no drinks) or favor that he/she can pass around quickly to the other students. There is so much material to cover in 3rd grade, that I hope you understand that our class can not waste too much time on extra activities. I will acknowledge students with birthdays with a special treat and birthday certificate.

How can I get in touch with you?

I will start parent/teacher conferences after PIAP tests are scored. In the meantime, and at all times, you can make a phone call, write a note, or use the planner for communication. You can also send me an e-mail at: SchulerB@.pcsb.org.   and  I will respond to you as soon as I am able.

Please remember to check the Class Web Site. It is updated each weekend!

www.schuler4mbe.com

Thank you for sharing your child with me this year!