September 30, 2010
Dear Parents,
Welcome to a new adventure, and experience! For many of you, this might be the first time you are taking one of your children to school. You may have a feeling of excitement as well as sadness, as you let go of your most precious possession. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your child’s life, and family.
I am looking forward to an exciting year, where together we will see the gigantic strides your child makes in all developmental domains.
Literacy is an integral part of our classroom curriculum. Literacy is everywhere; in our dramatic play, block, garden, technology, writing, and circle area. Come in! Enter our wonderful world of adventure, discovery, and growth, and be part of this remarkable and grand journey.
In order to take off on our voyage, we need you to hop on, and come along. Our classroom is in need of pilots to help navigate, and pave the way. Take off times are Monday through Thursday 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
I am inviting all parents, caregivers, or a family member to come into the classroom to read and play with our children. It is only for an hour a day. If you can come two times a week – that will be great. It is important for our children to see that you are involved in their education. According to Bronfenbrenner, children are part of an ecological system that influences and affects a child and vice versa. The first system, the microsystem is the immediate environment in which a child is operating, meaning the family and the classroom. Together these two systems compose the mesosystem, the most important environment in the child’s life. Therefore, it is essential that we work together in the literacy development of your child.
Please advice as to whether you can attend, or which family member can come into the classroom. We are happy to have grandma or grandpas visit us.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Miss Elizabeth Baez
October 30, 2010.
Dear Parents,
A few weeks ago, a film called “Waiting on Superman” aired in several cinemas in Scottsdale, and Phoenix. The film made emphasis on the impoverishment our children are living in regards to literacy. Yes, it is true that many children, especially those who live in poverty are being cheated of a good education. There is still much to do in order to fill in the gap in education. The good news is that both you and I can do something about the current situation, and ensure that we strike back to start ending inequalities in education.
First, and foremost we can begin at home, with your child. Literacy is an essential part of the education of your child. Literacy is the way children learn to read, and write. It is of utmost importance that you take time each day to read to your child. Twenty minutes a day will make a big difference. Your child is now learning how to use language, to understand that what we adults say, and the print he/she sees are interrelated. Modeling good reading habits for your child, will give him/her an appreciation, and enthusiasm for reading. Another benefit is the bonding you and your child will form. In years to come, your child will cherish the moments spent with you reading a good book.
I am here to support you in anything you need in regards to your child’s development of literacy. You are more than welcome to borrow any of the books here in our classroom. If you have any questions, or concerns, or would like more information, please feel free to call me after school or on the weekend. I am also available before, and after class.
November 23, 2010.
Dear Parents,
Our classroom is beginning to blossom. The children are exploring, experimenting, playing, and discovering who they are, and who their peers are. I would like to invite you to attend at least one of the classes that the Mesa Public School district is offering for parents, and caregivers. The classes last about an hour and a half. The presenters are knowledgeable in the development of children, and are always available after the presentation to answer any questions parents and caregivers may have. The classes are free of charge. If you are in need of transportation please let me know, and I can help arrange it for you. I have had the opportunity to attend several of these classes; one on signs of stress children may be going through in school, and another, on how to help children develop their literacy skills. They were both very informative, as well as gave good tools on how to help children who may be experiencing stress at school or at home.
In the spring, the district is also hosting a day conference for parents on literacy. Again, it is free of charge, and a great opportunity to learn more on how our children are developing, and how we can help support them in their development. The conference will have great speakers, as well as door prizes, and raffles. There will be translations available from English to Spanish. If you know anyone who may be available to help translate in other languages, please let me know. The school will provide transportation to and from the conference. Please consider attending the conference. It will be a blast.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Miss Elizabeth Baez
