First Formal Friday

Our leadership retreat came to a close Friday, and it was inspiring.  I realize that may sound a bit on the cheesy side, but no cheese intended - I'm inspired by your children!

First of all, they went all out with Formal Friday.  I'm talking full suits including pocket squares, blazers, sparkly skirts, and flowy dresses.  They didn't just look the part, they acted the part.  It was so fun!  I tried taking a nice picture, but I failed miserably.  I used the pano feature on my phone and it blurred their faces.  The good news is that I can try again this Friday.

Secondly, they created class norms as an entire fifth grade that are incredible.  Check it out:

• We will always respect others and be honest even when it is difficult.
• We will be brave even when we are scared.
• We will be great leaders for everyone by always being kind and inclusive.
• We will never be selfish; always be selfless.
• We will get organized and stay organized to help us work better and stay focused.

Thirdly, teachers from all over the building have been making comments to me about how impressed they are by the fifth grade class.  Individuals from our class have been noticed showing kindness to others, welcoming our new classmates to Captain, and leading by example during transitions in the halls.  Wow!

This week, we will have a "normal" week schedule-wise, and start settling into our daily routines.  Here is how it will go:

• 8:30-8:50  Morning Routine - Remember I will meet students on the playground to walk upstairs at 8:30, and announcements begin at 8:40 in order for class to begin at 8:50.  
• 8:50-9:50  Writing Workshop - We will begin with a pre-assessment, and then move into a short journalism unit so that students can begin contributing to this blog.)
• 9:50-10:50  Social Studies - This week will begin with world geography as we embark on our Three Cultures Meet unit.  We will also have opportunities to team with Miss Crowley's class during this unit of study. (Art will happen on B days for our class at this time, which will land on Thursday this week.)
• 10:50-11:50  Specials (PE, Music, Spanish)
• 11:50-12:10  Recess
• 12:10-12:30  Lunch
• 12:30-1:50  Reading Workshop - We will begin by setting up routines and then move into our unit on Interpretation Book Clubs: Analyzing Themes.  We will also be visiting the school library this week during reading workshop.
• 1:50-3:20  Math - Our first unit is on whole numbers, specifically focused on place value to ten million and rounding and estimation.  This is crucial for successful mental math in fifth grade.
• 3:20-3:30  Dismissal Routine

Please mark your calendars for Curriculum Night, which will take place on Tuesday, August 25th at 7pm beginning in the cafeteria.  

I'm energized for our great week ahead!