Mrs. Patricia Novak        

First Grade - 1A

                                                                                                September 2008

Dear Parents,

Welcome to the first grade at St. Ursula.  I am looking forward to an exciting year with your child. As we begin this school year, you can help ease your child's transition from carefree days of summer to active school days.

A new school year is an exciting time for children. It means making friends, taking part in activities, and learning skills. The beginning of school can also be an unsettling time. Children wonder whether they will like their teacher and be accepted by their classmates. It's a time for establishing a new place in the world -- always a bit frightening.

Together, we have a common goal -- to help your child be a happy, well-adjusted learner. As a parent, you know the most about you child's likes, dislikes, and unique learning style. Help me to create a successful learning environment by sharing any important information. We can share information through telephone conversations, notes and meetings.

Home is where learning starts. As a role model, you are a very important part of your child's education. If your child sees your enthusiasm for learning, he or she will also be enthusiastic. Does your home have books, newspapers, and magazine? Does your child see you using these materials to acquire knowledge? Do you encourage your child to ask questions, to look up information with you, and to learn new skills -- whether it is preparing a recipe or learning more about country, etc...? I encourage you to take a part in activities that reinforce what your child is learning in school.

Encourage your child to talk about his or her school experiences. Many children will tell you what they are thinking about their school experiences. Listen carefully, not only to the words but to the gestures, the emphasis, and the emotions. For a child, small problems can be overwhelming. Help your child understand that most problems -- big and small -- have solutions. Working together, you and your child can find the best solutions. Then school can become an even more productive place.

Sincerely,

Trish Novak