Reading
The Superkids are ready for second grade. Are you? Cass, Frits, Lily, Tic, Tac, Toc, Alf, Ettabetta, Icky, Sal, Doc, Oswald, Hot Rod, Ms. Blossom, and Golly have all new second grade adventures in store for you. Our reading book clubs feature 16 books including Frog and Toad, Nate the Great, Pinky and Rex and the Bully, a dog named Tornado, and various other great literature. As we read informational text in our Super magazine, we will learn about many fascinating things around the world such as square watermelons, a sea pig, Egyptian tombs, the inventions of Leonardo da Vinci as well as inventions by kids, and how scientists are saving the whooping crane from extinction. Math
The Everyday Math program is transforming our students into amazing mathematical thinkers. Mental math is one way we practice skills and give explanations of how our brain solves problems. The use of manipulatives help students visualize concepts. Our students at Needham will be rising to the challenge to memorize the basic facts to improve fluency and automaticity. The second grade goal is to memorize the addition and subtraction facts with sums up to 18 (ex: 9 + 9 = 18; 18 - 9 = 9). Progress toward our goal will be tracked with timed tests in thatquiz available on the computer at school only. Math homework includes practicing Math facts on a consistent basis with the triangle fact cards, games, and websites. (See Kid Zone page.) Lunch
Second grade lunch is at 10:50-11:20. Students have a choice of the regular or alternate cook's lunch or to bring their lunch from home. A menu is posted on line to help you make those choices. Please call the office at 738-5780 early in the morning or send a note if you plan on eating with your child that day so the cooks will have your meal prepared. Arrive 15 minutes early the first time to complete a background check in the office if you haven't done so this school year. The student and guest will sit at a separate table in the cafeteria. The school corporation has requested that fast food not be brought for school lunch. Water Bottles
Students may bring a water bottle with plain water only. Absences
Regular attendance is important to your child's success at school. Your child should be in the building by 7:30 to have time to prepare for our school day which starts with class at 7:40. The tardy bell rings at 7:40, but your child needs to be here prior to that time for lunch orders, morning announcements, breakfast, pencil sharpening, etc. If your child will be absent, contact the office early in the day via the Attendance Line. You can even call in the absence a day ahead. If your child has a doctor or dentist appointment be sure to get documentation and send it in to the office with your child the next day. Each class hopes to have the best attendance to win the stuffed bulldog award for the month. Everyone has the opportunity to earn an Attendance Award for the school year, which takes into account the days absent and tardy. |
Computer Lab
Technology enhances our studies as we learn how to type in Microsoft Word, build reading and math skills with Compass Learning and pass Reading Counts quizzes to improve comprehension. Typically we have computer lab class two times a week with some additional computer time in the classroom or on laptops. If they wish, students can bring their own personal headphones or earbuds in a baggie with their name on them. Specials Classes
Students have a Specials class daily. All three second grade classes get mixed together to create a new combination of students and smaller class sizes for Specials. The students' groups are color coded: red, yellow, green, and blue. The order of rotation goes with the letters MAPL: Music, Art, P.E., and Library. Children need to be prepared for their Special of the day. For example, always wear tennis shoes for P.E. class and have library books ready to return for Library class Communication
Needham is where your child comes to work. Although we strive for students to become more independent in second grade, your involvement and support is crucial to the success of your child. Keep informed of school happenings by reading the monthly school newsletters and the class weekly newsletters sent electronically to the e-mail address you have provided. A paper copy will be sent home to anyone who requests it. Volunteer Opportunities
Parents are encouraged to become involved at our school by participating in PTO meetings and various functions and activities as it allows with your schedule. Our school corporation requires a background check be completed each new school year (August-May) for adults who are going to be involved in school-related activities. Our volunteers are most appreciated at Needham. We have an awesome group of parents this year. I welcome parent help working with individual children or small groups of students. A note will be sent home surveying interest and availability. After a schedule is set up, we should be ready to begin mid-September. Report cards
Report cards are issued quarterly, every nine weeks. Students will receive a letter grade of A-F in the core subjects. Subskills in subjects and social/study skills will be marked as follows: S- Satisfactory N- Needs Improvement U - Unsatisfactory |