Happy New Year!

August 22nd, 2011

Dear students and parents,

Welcome to fourth grade! I hope you had a wonderful summer vacation. It's hard to believe that we come back to school next week. Even though I have been teaching 4th grade for twelve years, every year I am excited to start the new year with a new group of learners.

I am looking forward to this school year and I am eager to work with you in ways that increase your learning. During the first few weeks of school, we will concentrate on developing work habits for independent and group work. In addition, we will focus on classroom expectations and procedures. I feel this is time well spent in order to create the focused, peaceful and nurturing climate that is essential for learning to take place.

There are a few topics I wish to inform you about here at the beginning of the year.


Bring:

A sense of wonder and curiosity; an open mind; a readiness to think, question and communicate.


School Supplies:

You may bring them on Open House night or on the first day of school. The supply lists are posted on the school website: http://schools.evergreenps.org/Page/16335


Lunch:

I would suggest that you bring a lunch from home the first week of school if possible. The lines for school lunch are often long as people get used to the routine again and new students adapt.


Books:

Please bring a book to read in class. If you're in the middle of a book right now, bring that, or bring one you'd like to read.

Also be thinking about your favorite book. Be prepared to explain why it is your favorite book.


Homework:

You should expect homework Monday through Thursday evenings. On weekends I may ask students to reflect upon their learning, redo an assignment or spend some extra practice time on a particular topic. All assignments are related to fourth grade learning expectations. It is essential that you complete all assignments by their due dates, this will ensure continued progress and preparedness for future learning. Your signature on the homework page will indicate to me that you have checked your child's homework and have had a dialogue about their learning.


Healthy Snack/Water:

You may bring a snack to eat during our designated “snack” time each day. The guideline for snack time is very simple. The snack must be fruits, vegetables or nuts (except peanuts due to possible allergies in the room), no exceptions please.

In the portables we have filtered water available, if you want to bring your own water bottle you may refill it in class.


Communication:

I use this blog to inform you of various topics throughout the year. The frequency of the postings varies depending upon the time of year and how many events are scheduled. You may also request to follow me on Twitter- MrBiornstad.

If you have any information that you would like to share with me please send me an email- Bret.Biornstad@evergreenps.org, a note or call me at 360.604.6650 (School) or 503.928.4618 (Mobile). My office hours are Mon. Tues., Thurs., Fri. from 3:45 - 4:15 p.m.; Wed. 1:15 - 1:45. It is best to make an appointment since I often tutor students after school.

See you next Tuesday night at Open House. I can't wait to start the New Year!


Mr. Biornstad