Preschool....or any age!

In the September 2009 issue of Parenting magazine (for early years) there was a humorous article written by an anonymous preschool teacher offering up twenty five pieces of advice for success in preschool. While reading the article, I realized that many of these tidbits are also true for fourth grade as well. What I especially enjoyed about the article was the humor used by the author to tackle a few areas that can sometimes be uncomfortable for both sides. I'll share with you some of the ones that I felt were applicalbe to fourth graders.....

• Don't ask me about any other children.

If I tell you that your child is doing well on something, don't ask me if Julian is doing that, too. And don't ask me if Julian is doing that too. And don't ask me if your child is the smartest in the class. I won't tell you. Teachers prefer to compare a child's progress to himself, not others.

• Lice can happen to anyone.

You needn't be embarrassed. Just let me know so I can prevent an outbreak

• Read my notes home.

I know they're chirpy and have way too many exclamation points. But sometimes I have important news about classroom events to share with you.

• Try to trust me.

If I tell you that your child could benefit from further evaluation in an area of development, realize that I would not say such a thing frivolously. (It is never easy to tell a parent that his or her child might have a problem, however minor it may be.) I see your child through the eyes of a teacher, as part of a group, and I'm not just thinking of him now, but also in the future. I want to make sure that if your child needs a little extra help he gets it sooner rather than later. And it's not a big deal if he does; lots of kids get services like speech or occupational therapy. If you think I'm wrong, go see a specialist and then come back and let me know how off base I was. I'll probably be almost relieved as you.

If you would like to read the article in its entirety, you can find it at:

http://http://www.parenting.com/article/Child/Daycare--Education/Preschool-Confidential-What-Teachers-Want-You-to-Know

Best Wishes,

Mr. Fletcher

The Room is Ready!

I spent the day yesterday, setting up the classroom for the upcoming school year. It is always one of my favorite times as it is when I feel at my most creative. I have to keep a notebook out as the ideas seem to pour into my head during the unpacking and organizing. This year's list looks pretty good. I've moved some furniture around, purchased materials for some new centers, and managed to fit all the desks and chairs into a layout that I think will work well for the group. Ican't believe how fast the summer has gone, but as I look back at it, I accomplished quite a bit....more than I had even planned on! That's a great feeling to go back to school with. I can say that I'll be one hundred percent back in school mode since I was able to complete the two major things on my list for the summer.....1) a lawn and 2) the boys playset. I managed to have both done by the first part of July, which gave me a ton of time to enjoy both and be able to do some traveling as well! Here are some photographic highlights of my summer......

Making Progress!

I spent the day working with my colleagues today. We discussed this year's schedule, ideas, and things we are planning to accomplish for the upcoming school year. I have to say that it was pretty cool to hear all the great ideas the group had, but what was even better was witnessing the dedication that everyone has to their students. It makes me incredibly thankful to work with and be a part of such a great learning community. These students are so fortunate to have such a caring group of individuals as their teachers.

Greetings Everyone!

Big news! I found out today that we have a new student joining our class this year. I'm very excited to meet him and his family. I'm sure the kids will do a great job of making him feel welcome and helping him get to know the school.

As I looked at my class list today, I realized how many of you I have had as parents already! This has got me really excited since I have enjoyed working with you in the past and I look forward to getting the awesome opportunity to work with you again. This makes me think about my first year at Hunter when I didn't know anyone. I can't believe how fast the years have gone by. I guess I'm extra nostalgic today because I was passed in my car by a student from that first class of fourth graders. My very first class.....driving! Boy, did I feel old. Not so much for getting passed, but because as I looked down at my speedometer I was going 45 in a 55 and my right turn signal had been on for who knows how long. I would have passed me too! I guess as I get older, I'm learning to slow down and enjoy the scenery. I hope I'm able to pass this on to my students before they are in their 30's. Think of all the stuff they may not miss because they were going too fast. Or, it could be a rite of passage. To that former student of mine, I thank you for passing me on Rte. 23A. You've given me a lot to think about. Just remember to slow down and take in the scenery sometimes......and I'll try not to drive like an old man.

Take Care,
Mr. Fletcher

It Is Going To Be A Great Year!

Hello Everyone!

I'm so excited to get this blog up and running and can't wait to see what you all have to say. I know this may be new to some of you, but I'm hoping that this will serve my class for years to come and be a way that we can all share our thoughts and feelings about what is going on in and outside of the classroom.

This year is going to be extraordinary in a number of ways. First, I will be the only fourth grade teacher this year, which opens up an incredible amount of opportunities for our class. Secondly, as a way to show my students that you never stop learning, I have officially become a candidate to become a National Board Certified Teacher. This is a process that will probably take me the better part of a year and will be an incredible amount of work, but also a challenge that I am more than ready to take on!

I strongly encourage you to comment on the posts that are made here and make this space something special! We can bounce ideas around, share thoughts, stories, and basically connect as a classroom.....outside of the classroom.

Here's to a great year!