Parent Letter

January 13, 2010

Dear Fourth Grade Parents:

Students are getting back into the rhythm of the school day after enjoying their holiday breaks. We are so pleased to have Kit Blazej join our group. She is a wonderful addition to the class, and all of the fourth graders have been so excited to have her with us.

Our first weeks back have been filled with activity in the classroom. We have started to read Scott O’Dell’s classic, Island of the Blue Dolphins. As part of this literature study, students will select an endangered species, indigenous to Vermont, to research for a report.

In math we are working with multi-digit multiplication and estimation, and in science we are testing paper towels for wet strength and absorbency and comparing the unit costs of different brands. Students are using general methods of scientific investigation as they design and implement controlled experiments, measure physical characteristics, record their data, and draw conclusions. The unit also encourages students to question manufacturer's claims and use their test results to inform their decisions as consumers.

In celebration of the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., third and fourth graders have been sharing what they know about Dr. King and his legacy. We listened to his I Have a Dream speech and discussed his hopes, dreams, and the power of his words. Students have also painted black and white portraits from photographs of well-known figures important to the civil rights movement.

Here are a few items to tell you about:

Parent/teacher conferences are on January 29, from 11 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Please be sure to sign up with Tammy in the office. If this time is not convenient for anyone, I can be flexible and meet one day after school.

With snow abundant and sand on the driveways and walkways, boots get pretty dirty this time of year. I request that students have indoor shoes to change into after they have been outdoors. They can be slippers, sneakers, Crocs, whatever works for you.

January is the Fourth Grade’s month to collect food for the Putney Food Shelf. There is a box outside our classroom and in the hall outside of Tammy’s office. Please bring in non-perishable food items if you are able. The Food Shelf is quite empty at this time. Thanks in advance for your help with this.

As always, please contact me with any questions or concerns. It is such a pleasure to work with your children.