First Day Fun!

Today was such a fantastic day one for our class, I don't even know where to begin!

Our primary focus of the day was getting to know each other and beginning to learn some of the basic routines we will be using day in and day out in fifth grade.  This time is crucial to our success as the year progresses.  I learned some wonderful things about our class members: they are brimming with  talent, have strong ties with their families and friends, they are passionate about learning about all sorts of topics, they think deeply (Even on the first day!  I hit the jackpot!), and they are willing to try new things!

In one word our day was FUN.  You know the old cliche, "Time flies when you're having fun."  It's all true.  It was fun and the day flew by. 

Some highlights that you may (or may not) have heard about:

- We are going to try a classroom economy this year.  I will send home an informational letter, but it was a program inspired by a Rafe Esquith (award-winning fifth grade teacher and author) and developed in partnership with Vanguard, provided to classrooms for free to help students learn about personal economics.  More details to come! 

- We will be receiving planners and 8-pocket-folders to help us organize, but until they arrive we are using paper planner copies.  Please check your child's planner each night and sign it.  One major goal of fifth grade is to learn positive organizational and study habits and these tools (and consistency using them) really help! 

-  I serve caffeine-free tea each morning in the classroom.  It helps the students start their day in a calm and positive way.  Please allow your child to bring a mug to school for tea if she/he would like to participate. 

I sincerely hope the students enjoyed our first day together as much as I did!  Can't wait to crank up the fun again for tomorrow!