Welcome to the 2012-2013 school year! I am Amy Stein, the Second Grade General Studies teacher. I am so excited to get to know your child this year, and to create a super second grade experience!
Originally from Philadelphia, PA, I relocated here to Jacksonville from Las Vegas, NV two years ago. This will be my third year here at MJGDS, and my eleventh year of teaching altogether.
I truly feel honored to be working with your child, and I anticipate a year of great academic growth and social development. Here you will see information on my classroom procedures and expectations. I am happy to answer any questions you may have.
My classroom is a child-centered environment in which academic, social, and emotional growth are highly valued. The children are taught in a variety of ways, allowing them to work independently, with a partner, as a whole class, and one-on-one with me.
Procedures: The classroom rules are permanently posted in the front of the room and are referred to when necessary. They establish a climate of respect and discipline. I also use five Hand Signals to non-verbally express the students’ needs, such as bathroom and drink breaks. The signals are very useful, especially during quiet work times.
Homework: Daily homework assignments are given to simply reinforce the day’s lessons. I believe in meaningful and appropriate reviews, not busywork. Homework assignments, weekly spelling and vocabulary lists, and any important updates are posted on the Kitah Bet Blog for your convenience. Math and spelling work are assigned on a daily basis. Other activities may be added during the week. I like for the students to have the responsibility of writing down their assignments on a homework sheet, and we will ease into this responsibility during the first few weeks of school. If a student has not completed an assignment, they will either finish it during class, for homework that night, or the next day, depending on the situation. With repeated missed assignments, parents are notified. Please continuously practice with your child the addition and subtraction facts up to 20 several times a week.
Grading: I conduct both formal and informal evaluations. Using teacher observation, ongoing assessment, quizzes and tests, I am able to identify students’ academic strengths, challenges, and levels. I modify my teaching strategies using this information.
Grading Scale:
90-100 A
80-89 B
70-79 C
60-69 D
Below 60 U (Unacceptable)
Work Folder: White, work folders are sent home every Friday. Please sign and return the folder each Monday. You may keep all of the papers inside. If you have any questions regarding your child’s work, please feel free to contact me or to send a note attached to the paper in question.
Field Trips: All field trips this year will be connected to the curriculum. I am planning some exciting trips, and when there is a finalized schedule, I will let you know.
Absences: As it is explained in the Handbook, please send a note as to why your child was absent when he/she returns to school. If your child is absent for two or more days, I will be happy to send work home with a sibling or friend. Otherwise, they will have several days to complete the missed assignments when they return.
Toys: As it is explained in the Handbook, please do not allow your child to bring any toys to school. Any toys that are found will be confiscated and returned at a later time.
21st Century Learning replaces what used to be called Computer Lab. This reflects a change in philosophy between computers as an extra activity, and technology as an essential tool for an integrated classroom. Andrea Hernandez will continue to facilitate this exciting Resource in collaboration with our class.
I strongly believe in open communication, so please feel free to email, write a note, call, or visit with any questions or concerns you may have. Thank you for taking an active role in your child’s education. I look forward to creating a partnership between home and school, challenging your child to reach their potential, and making this a wonderful year!
Sincerely,
Amy Stein
amy.stein@mjgds.org
