Goals

Today was the first day back and it was so nice to see everyone and hear about what everyone did over the summer. Most of our day was spent in a staff meeting of sorts, discussing the new schedule, PBS, changes to our school rules, and other such business. 

We have new school hours 8:20-2:20 and no more early release Thursdays. For some reason despite the fact that they day is shorter, it works out that we have more time for math and a solid 30 minute period for science/social studies. It looks like the new schedule is going to be a good change.

We also have new school wide rules as part of our PBS program. Instead of the 4 R's, we now have the 3 B's

Be safe

Be kind

Be responsible

I think that will be a good change. 

We were also asked to create our professional goals for the year. As usual, the First Grade teachers completed the assignment as a team. We love to be united. :0)

Our goals are as follows:

1) Given a combination of Treasures and Fast Track Phonics instruction, at least 85% of First Graders will be at or above grade level reading benchmarks as measured by Spring DIBELS.

2) Write and send home a newsletter written in both English and Spanish at least once a month  (in addition to personal newsletters/letters).

3) Create a more student centered mathematic environment through the use of differentiated instruction and activities as well as more hands on activities utilizing manipulatives. 

In addition to the team goals, I also have some personal goals such as implementing more writing to learn activities, assessing writing on a weekly basis using a goal sheet and sticker chart for each student, and completing some reading incentive activities like last year's goal of reading 100 books as a class.

I have a feeling it is going to be a good year.