Absences	If your child is absent from school due to illness, please send in a note when your child returns to school explaining his or her absence. Please let me know in advance if you know your child will be absent from school due to travel plans or medical appointments.
Attendance	Your child's progress, both academic and social, is influenced to a great extent by daily participation. Regular attendance without tardiness is important.  Please keep in mind that many of the lessons and activities we do in class are whole group lessons and are very difficult to make up.
Arrival	Students should plan to arrive after 8:35 am, as they are not permitted to enter the classroom before that time. Students should not arrive prior to 8:20 am since supervision is not available by the school staff.  School begins promptly at 8:50 am and afternoon dismissal is at 3:10 PM.

Backpacks	To help your child carry books, folders, and lunch boxes to and from school, you are asked to provide a suitable-sized backpack for this purpose (no teeny ones, please!).  Please label it with your child's name because many backpacks look alike.
Birthdays	Birthdays are special occasions for young children.  If your child wishes, he or she may bring a treat for the class on his or her birthday.  Birthdays will be celebrated in the cafeteria. Lunch is from 11:45-12:15. Please plan accordingly. If you would like to drop off a treat in the morning before lunch that is fine.  Please do not send birthday invitations to school.  Although it may seem like a convenient way to distribute invitations, it can result in hurt feelings for those not invited.
Book Orders	Every month I will be sending home book order forms for you and your child to look over.  These clubs offer wonderful books at reduced prices - what a great way to build your home library!  We receive bonus points for every dollar spent through the book clubs, which I use to buy even more books for our classroom library-a win-win situation! Please make checks payable to Scholastic Books.

Clothes	Please send your child to school in clothes appropriate for learning. Do not send your child to school so "dressed up" that you might be concerned about him or her "getting dirty."  Please also keep in mind that our classroom is very warm; dressing your child in layers during the winter months will allow him or her to remain comfortable.  Please label your child's clothing with his or her name as children sometimes have difficulty remembering or recognizing their own clothing.
Conferences	Parent-teacher conferences are held in November and March.  At these conferences, we will discuss your child's accomplishments, strengths, and overall progress.  You are also welcome to request to meet with me at any other time throughout the year.
Computers	We have three computers in our classroom that the children use during Reading time.  We use a variety of age-appropriate programs that reinforce math and reading skills.  We also use the Internet to supplement our learning and answer children's questions.  Our state of the art computer lab is up and running. We will be visiting it on a weekly basis.

Differentiation	Because all children are unique and special, they may be at many different instructional levels.  It is my responsibility to take each student from where he or she is to a higher level, your child may be learning some concepts at different times than his or her peers. This type of teaching in the classroom ensures that your child's individual needs will be met.
Discipline	My philosophy of discipline is based on the belief that children need affectionate care and firm guidelines within a flexible structure. To establish good order and help the children learn self-control, the children will be guided to respect themselves and their companions through specific directions, positive reinforcement, suggested new activities, and responsible actions.
Dismissal	Dismissal is at 3:10 PM daily.  On early dismissal days, such as for parent-teacher conferences, dismissal is at 1:10 PM.  If you plan to pick up your child at school or if there is any other change in transportation plans, you must send in a written note.  (See “Transportation” for additional information.)  Please pick up your child in the lobby, where he/she will be signed out.  Do not pick up your child in the classroom.  This is for the safety of all the students in the class.

Envelopes	When sending money (cash or check) to school, please put it in a sealed envelope labeled with your child's name, what the money is for, and the teacher's name.
Emergency Closings	If schools are closed for any emergency, or if opening is delayed, radio stations WLAD-AM (800) and WICC (600) will make announcements beginning at 6:30 am.  If an emergency occurs during the day, the radio will announce dismissal procedures and/or the room parents will implement the emergency phone chain.
E-mail	You can contact me at home via my e-mail address at  school is mwilliams@new-fairfield.k12.ct.us.   Please keep in mind that while I try to check my e-mail daily, I sometimes miss a day here or there.  If you need to discuss something urgent or timely, please call at school: 312-5940 or send in a note.

Field Trips	We plan several field trips during the year that are both fun and educational for the children.  We often need chaperones that will be chosen on a first-come, first-serve basis (although I try to rotate so that all interested parents have a chance to participate).  Please return permission slips as soon as possible after they are sent home.
Fire Drills	Fire drills are held monthly throughout the year.  All students will participate and are expected to walk quickly and quietly with their class to their designated exit.  We will practice and become familiar with procedures before our first scheduled drill. We also practice weather related drills and lockdown freezes. These are all part of our safe schools procedures.
Footwear	Please have your child wear shoes that are comfortable and appropriate for school.  Cowboy boots, dress shoes, flip-flops or open-heeled sandals, for example, are not good for school activities because they are slippery and inappropriate for the gym or the playground.
Folders		In an effort to ease the flow of information and paperwork between home and school, your child will bring home a folder (provided by me) every day.  It will include all notices, flyers, and completed work.  Please be sure to look through the folder every day (and return it to school the next day) as it may contain timely or important information.

Got Questions?	Even though many of you are familiar with Consolidated School and our procedures, you may still have some unanswered questions. Please feel free to call me at school and leave a message (312-5940).   You may also send in a note with your question, and I'll reply with an answer back to you as soon as possible.
Guided Reading	Guided reading provides an opportunity to teach children the reading strategies they need in order to become fluent, independent readers. During guided reading, I monitor and evaluate each child's progress.  Our guided reading groups are flexible, meaning that I adjust the groups and instruction according to each child's needs. The books we practice during the week will be coming home on Fridays in the “Weekend Books” ziploc/plastic bag.  Please return these books back to me on Monday mornings.
Gym	Our class will have gym class each week with Mr. Buchsbaum.  The children are asked to wear sneakers on gym days, and girls might consider wearing pants or shorts on those days.  Children without sneakers will be “happy watchers” during gym class.  Our gym day is on Thursdays.

Hands-on Learning	I feel that the best way to help children learn is to make learning fun.  Important concepts can be learned by doing meaningful hands-on activities.  Many times seatwork is required and necessary, but I will provide as much developmentally appropriate hands-on experience as possible.
Homework	We have daily homework in second grade.  Often times the homework is a page or two in Math Homelinks and nightly reading log. After the winter holidays students will be given Math facts to practice also.  Remember every Friday your child will bring home the guided reading book(s) he or she has worked on throughout the week.  Please take the time every day to guide your child in completing his or her homework, but please do not do it for him or her.

Illness	Children function more effectively in the classroom when they are healthy.  The question of when to keep your child home from school is often a difficult one, especially when decisions must be made first thing in the morning. It is important, however, to keep your child home if he or she is ill. This helps to make your child more comfortable and prevents others from becoming ill.
Independent Reading	Because children learn to read by reading, they need plenty of opportunities to read independently.  Sufficient time and appropriate materials are necessary to develop and strengthen reading abilities.  By giving your child time to read material at his or her level both at school and at home, we can work together to provide a literature-rich environment and a lifelong love of reading.
Journals	Your child will have several journals to work in at school.   The progress your child makes in second grade will be apparent in his or her Newsbooks, Phonics workbook, Literature Response Journal,  and Reading Journal.  These will be shared with you during parent-teacher conferences.

Kindness	Students in our classroom are encouraged and expected to treat all members of our school community with kindness and respect. Hitting, fighting, name-calling, and making fun of others will not be permitted.  Please refer to the Conduct Code for New Fairfield Public Schools for more information.
Library/ Media Center	We will visit the Library/Media Center every week.  Our librarian will read to the students and allow them to check out books.  She will also give the children guidance in checking out books.  Children are expected to return library books the following week.  We visit the library on Fridays.
Lost & Found	We have a Lost and Found area near the recess door (by the cafeteria).  We encourage children to check the lost and found collection for any missing items.  Please label all clothing items worn to school by your child.  Many children have similar-looking backpacks and articles of clothing, and this will help us return a lost item to its owner.
Lunch	Our class eats lunch from 11:45-12:15.  Children may either purchase their lunch (for $2.25) or bring it from home. A monthly lunch menu will be sent home with each day's meal choices for you to discuss with your child.  Lunch tickets may be purchased on Monday for the week or month.  Your child is also welcome to bring cash to buy lunch on a daily basis.  If they do bring cash for lunch please put it in a plastic bag or envelope with their name labeled on it.

Math	Our mathematics curriculum provides students with mathematical experiences that help them develop number sense and a positive attitude towards mathematics that will continue through their school career and their lives.  We use the Chicago Everyday Mathematics program, which spirals concepts throughout the year.
Music	The children will meet every week with Mr. Booth, our music teacher.  He will teach them the basics of music education and will share many wonderful songs!  We sing with Mr. Booth on Tuesdays.

Newsletter	I will send home a newsletter on most Mondays to keep you informed of the happenings in our classroom. This is a great way to keep up with our curriculum, classroom news, special activities, and upcoming events.  It also provides a springboard for discussion with your child.  If you require more than one copy of the newsletter, just ask!
Nurse	The nurse's office is located across from the office on the first floor.  Please keep in mind that often times first graders just need a little TLC so I take care of minor hurts in the classroom, but I send the children to the school nurse for more serious injuries and illnesses.  Please be sure to send in any change of contact numbers in case she needs to get in touch with you.
Outside Time	The children go outside for a 30-minute recess every day (except when it's rainy or very cold).  Please keep this in mind when you help your child select clothing for the day.  In snowy weather, children who have boots and winter outerwear will be allowed to play in the snow.  Children without boots will be “happy watchers” on the blacktop.

Parent Involvement	Your support of school activities makes your child feel important and sends the message that you value school!  There are many ways to volunteer at Consolidated School.  I welcome parent volunteers in the classroom daily and will begin a regular volunteer schedule in October.  I also can often use help with cutting and pasting that you could do at home for me if you would like.  We also have many special classroom activities and celebrations throughout the school year that require parent volunteers, so I hope that you can come and join in the fun!
Parties and Celebrations	We will have class parties for occasions such as Halloween, December holidays, Valentine's Day, Spring  and end-of-the-year celebration. The room parents organize these events and coordinate volunteers and donations.
Quality Work	All children in my classroom are encouraged and expected to do their best to produce high-quality work.  Please do your part by encouraging your children to try their very best every day to use good handwriting, put considerable effort and thought into their work, and to be proud of their accomplishments, both academic and personal.

Reading	Reading is the an important skill your child will learn in second grade, and regular practice is important.  Please make sure you read, read, READ with your child every day!  It is also very important that you listen to your child read to you. I encourage you to read chapter books at home to your child. A child's listening level is always higher than their Reading level and they get so much from the rich language in good quality literature.
Report Cards	Report cards are issued twice a year, in January and June.  These reports reflect the progress your child has made toward our second grade objectives and use a grading system that reflects the developmental nature of second grade learning.
Restrooms	The children are encouraged to go to the bathroom as soon as they come into school in the morning, before snack, and again after recess. I prefer they do not go during a lesson, unless it is an emergency.
Room Parents	The room parents' job responsibilities include helping to coordinate parties and activities, implementing the emergency phone chain when necessary, and being a sounding board about new ideas.  Being a room parent is a great way to be involved in your child's school life. If you're interested in being a room parent, please contact the PTO.

Science	The focus of the second grade science curriculum is on developing an increasing awareness of our Earth and its phenomena. Through scientific inquiry, children will study animals past and present and our solar system, plants, balance & motion and pebbles, sand & silt. At times, there are homework projects related to units of study.
Sharing	Recognizing that it is important for second graders to develop listening and speaking skills.  Throughout the day, children will share their writing work.
Snack	We take the time for a short snack every morning. Your child should bring a small snack that should take no more than 5-10 minutes to eat.  Please remember to pack a snack for your child every day-it is important that your child knows that you are thinking about him or her.  Healthy food is encouraged and items that are easy for the children to open themselves make snack time run more smoothly. In addition, please do not send in a drink at this time.  Students will be able to drink their water.
Social Studies	Our second grade social studies curriculum focuses on communities past, present, near and far. This will include ancestors/immigrants, celebrations around the world, ancient Egypt and the environment/ecology.

Toys	Bringing toys to school is discouraged for a number of reasons.  If a toy is accidentally lost or broken, feelings will be hurt. During the winter toys will be allowed for indoor recess.
Transportation	If you plan to pick up a child who normally rides the bus or you wish for your child to ride a different bus than usual, you must send a written note.  Do not rely on your child to tell me this information, because children often become confused and relay information incorrectly. If no written note is received, your child will be sent home by his/her usual method of transportation.  This is for the safety of all the children in our class.
Visitors	Consolidated School has a policy that all visitors (including familiar faces) are required to check in at the office and wear a name badge.  We welcome and encourage family involvement, and the presence of a name badge will help identify visitors to all faculty and staff.  It is important to remember that while this may seem inconvenient to frequent visitors, it is the goal and responsibility of the school to create a safe learning environment.

Website	Consolidated School has a website which can be accessed at http://www.newfairfieldschools.org/consolidated.  Check in regularly to find information about curriculum, special events and school news.
Wish List	Throughout the year we sometimes need supplies above and beyond our classroom materials (such as toys for the prize box, unscented baby wipes, tissues, paper towels, clorox wipes) These needs will be posted in the class newsletter. If you chose to volunteer to send in these items it will be greatly appreciated. Extra items that you think we might be able to use are always welcome!
Writing	Our writing program builds on what each child already knows. We begin with memoirs and move into writing responses to literature, letter writing, non-fiction reports and imaginary narratives. Each lesson begins with a mini-lesson tailored to students' needs. Your child will be encouraged and praised for all attempts and accomplishments in writing.  Providing a risk-free environment is paramount to your child's progress in writing.  If possible, please provide your child with a work space at home and writing tools, such as pencils, crayons, markers, and paper.

Younger Siblings	It is in your child's and the class's best interest to have our parent volunteers available without younger children. This not only allows your full attention to be focused on the class and/or work at hand, but it also gives you some special time with your second grader.  Thank you for making childcare arrangements for younger siblings!
ZZZZZZs	Make sure that your child gets plenty of rest every day. Setting and keeping an appropriate bedtime is a wonderful gift you can give to your child.   It  will help them to be alert and ready to learn each day!