The school year has begun!  We’ve gotten off to a great start! Classes are busy with students learning and children are getting back to the routines of school. Our annual Open House is scheduled for Wednesday 16^th beginning at 5:30PM. A separate letter with specifics regarding this event will be forwarded to you.   However, now is a great time for you and your child to begin a fresh start to the school year.  Here are some suggestions to make this year your child’s greatest success in school!

…..Start with good reading habits.   As mentioned during opening remarks with parents on the first day of school, reading skills can be improved by regular read-aloud times.  Make this part of your family’s daily schedule.  Read to/with your child every night at bedtime—even if it’s only for five minutes.  A weekly trip to our wonderful public library, where your child can choose his or her own book, is a great way to stimulate reading.  Also, model good literacy practices by having your children SEE YOU read books, magazines, newspapers etc.

…..Make school a priority.  Don’t let the TV, video games, or various distractions take up your child’s precious time.  Homework should be a priority and on weekdays, completed first thing.

…..Put goals in writing.  Just as we have goals for our students and the school, make a list of goals for your children that will enhance their educational opportunities for success (example:  No calls to friends until homework is done).  Every few weeks review these simple goals to see how they are progressing.

…..Show the children that you care. Stay in touch with the teacher.  Not just at conference time, but prior to and throughout the school year.  DO ask about school, how their day went and DON”T accept one word responses (example: “O.K.”).  Look over their homework and read papers they bring home from school.  Remember, to always check that royal blue “Northeast Folder” they carefully bring home every day. Finally, be sure to tell them how proud you feel when they try their best.

Robert Johnson