2nd Grade Newsletters

Hello Wonderful Families!
 
I just wanted to send out a quick reminder to help make sure your student brings back their library books to return! 
 
Every Monday, our class goes to the school library to engage in a read aloud and have time to explore, read, and check out books to take home. When they go to the library the following week, they are only able to check out a new book if there book has been returned from the previous week(s). 
 
Ensuring students return their book each week gives them opportunities to find new books to love and take home. We hope this system helps encourage the love for reading and overall learning. 
 
Thanks so much for your support and I will see you all tomorrow!

Dear Parents/Guardians,

I hope this message finds you well. We've had another wonderful week in second grade, witnessing remarkable progress and achievements from our young learners.

Regrettably, due to some unforeseen issues during recess, I was unable to complete this week's newsletter. Instead, I wanted to share some crucial information and upcoming events with you directly.

Important Dates:

  1. October 3rd - Picture Day: Please ensure you fill out the picture day form in your child's backpack and return it to the office. This is a great opportunity to capture some special moments!

  2. October 4th, 4:30 PM - Bring Your Parent to School Night: Join us for a math and reading lesson and get a glimpse of the second-grade rigor. We look forward to having you with us!

  3. October 13th - Fall Harvest Dinner: This event is for all community members and promises a delightful evening filled with food, drinks, and activities. We hope to see you there!

Important Information:

  • You'll find a green paper in your child's backpack explaining our system for teaching them to solve small problems independently. These are situations that don't pose a danger and can be resolved by the student themselves. Please consider using Kelso's Choices at home to reinforce this learning.

  • I've also sent home some practice words and passages to support our reading skills concept of the week, which focused on the suffix "-ing". Your child has been working hard on these all week, and they're excited to demonstrate their skills at home! Lastly, we kindly request your assistance in reminding your child not to bring toys to school. Our teachers on recess and lunch duty have observed that toys brought from home can lead to various issues, including loss, breakage, theft, and disruptions in student behavior.

We greatly appreciate your involvement in the second-grade journey and your continued support in helping our students thrive. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for being an integral part of our classroom community.

Warm regards,

--

Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 
 
 

Dear Families,

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for your continued support and involvement in your child's education.

This week at school was truly awesome! The students have been engaged, enthusiastic, and making remarkable progress. I invite you to take a few moments to read our weekly newsletter, which contains important updates, details about upcoming events, and outlines what we've been working on in class. It also provides guidance on how you can support your child's learning at home.

Each student will be bringing home a hard copy of the newsletter, along with practice work related to our current phonics concept. Your assistance in reinforcing these concepts at home is invaluable and greatly appreciated.

Additionally, I am in need of snack donations. Snacks play a crucial role in helping our young learners stay focused and energized throughout the day. Your contributions make a significant difference.

Thank you once again for your continued support. I hope you have a wonderful weekend filled with special moments.

Warm regards,

Dear Families,

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to update you on all the wonderful things happening in our second-grade class this week.

We've had an eventful week full of new learning experiences. We've embarked on fresh units in both math and reading, and our young writers have been hard at work revising their informational chapters about animals in specific habitats. The progress they're making is truly impressive!

Although there wasn't a newsletter sent out today, I still wanted to ensure you're aware of some important upcoming events:

  1. Fall Break: After today, we'll be enjoying a well-deserved break. School will resume on Tuesday, October 10th.

  2.  

  3. All School Field Trip: On October 10th, we're heading out on an exciting adventure to a pumpkin patch. It promises to be a day filled with fun and learning!

  4.  

  5. Fall Harvest Dinner: Join us on Friday, October 13th, at 5 pm for a delightful evening hosted by the library. It's sure to be a wonderful community event.

  6.  

  7. Eclipse Party: The library is also hosting an eclipse party on Saturday, October 14th, from 9 am to noon. It's a fantastic opportunity to come together and witness this celestial event.

Remember, the library is a valuable resource for families beyond school hours. Don't hesitate to explore all it has to offer.

  1. Parent-Teacher Conferences: On October 16th, we'll be holding conferences. I'll be sending out a sign-up sheet over the weekend, allowing you to choose a time that suits you best, whether it's in person or virtual. Your involvement in your child's education is greatly appreciated.

Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to those who attended our open house. It was wonderful to meet and connect with you all. I'm looking forward to hosting families in our second-grade class more frequently.

Wishing you all a fantastic fall break filled with rest, relaxation, and quality time with loved ones.

Warm regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 
(224) 567-9298
 

Dear Families,

I wanted to remind you that parent-teacher conferences are scheduled for this upcoming Monday, October 16th. Your presence at this meeting is highly valued, as it provides an invaluable opportunity for us to connect and discuss your child's progress. We'll begin by celebrating their achievements, then move on to areas where they can grow. You'll leave with a toolkit of resources and suggestions to support your child at home, along with a clear plan for how we can work together to ensure their success in school. Our shared goal is to form a strong team focused on your child's education. I look forward to meeting with you and charting a path to their continued growth and achievement.

Use this link to sign up! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4CAFAA22A7F9CF8-45152354-monday

Warm regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 

Dear Parents/Guardians,

I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits. Despite the short week, our students have been diligently engaged in meaningful learning experiences.

To get a comprehensive overview of our activities, upcoming events, and what we covered in class, I encourage you to take a few moments to read our latest newsletter. It's a fantastic resource to stay informed and be actively involved in your child's educational journey.

I'm particularly excited to share that Parent-Teacher Conferences are scheduled for this upcoming Monday. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to meet in person and discuss the remarkable progress and achievements of your child. Your involvement is invaluable, and I'm looking forward to our fruitful conversations.

Wishing you all a fantastic weekend filled with joy and relaxation.

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 

I hope this message finds you well. I am excited to share that it's been another fantastic week in second grade! My students continue to impress me with their enthusiasm for learning, their hard work, and their empathetic collaboration with their peers.

I would like to take a moment to remind everyone that toys are not allowed at school. Your cooperation in ensuring that your child understands this rule is greatly appreciated.

For any additional queries or information, please refer to the Sunnyside Family Handbook, which is a comprehensive guide to our school's policies and procedures.

I also want to highlight some important upcoming events:

  1. Halloween Costume Policy: Please note that costumes will not be permitted at school on Halloween day. Instead, we invite you to join us on Friday, October 27th for the Sunnyside Halloween Carnival. This promises to be an exciting event with costumes, games, delicious food, and engaging activities for all community members. Further details are available in the attached flyer.

  2. Annual Fundraiser - Butter Braids: It's that time of year again! Our annual fundraiser is underway, and this year, we are selling delicious butter braids. More information can be found in the attached flyer.

  3. Picture Retake Day - November 2nd: In case your child missed the initial picture day or you'd like a retake, mark your calendars for November 2nd.

I want to express my sincere gratitude for your constant support and the wonderful teamwork I experience with each and every one of you. Together, we create a thriving learning environment for our students.

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend!

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 

Dear Families,

I am thrilled to share that this past week in second grade has been absolutely fantastic! We've successfully wrapped up our units in reading, writing, math, and science, and the progress our students have made is truly commendable.

I encourage you to take a moment to peruse our latest newsletter, as it contains crucial information about upcoming events and opportunities that you won't want to miss.

Looking ahead, I am incredibly excited about the new concepts and ideas we'll be delving into next week. It's always a joy to watch our class explore, discover, and continue to grow together.

A quick note regarding Halloween: this year, we won't be wearing costumes to school. Instead, we invite our students to sport their favorite t-shirts for a fun and comfortable day.

Tonight, don't forget to join us for the Sunnyside Spooktacular Carnival! Costumes are warmly encouraged, and there will be an array of activities including food, games, a haunted house, and more.

Thank you for your ongoing support and involvement in your child's education. Together, we're creating a rich and rewarding learning experience for them.

Warm regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 
 
 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Happy Friday!

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to share some of the wonderful things we've been up to in second grade this week.

We've had a fantastic time reviewing and solidifying concepts from previous units, and we're all geared up for some exciting new ones. Our new reading unit is all about the government and laws in America. As we dive into this topic, we're honing skills like using context clues to decipher unfamiliar words and employing evidence to support the author's main ideas and purpose.

In science, we're embarking on a community project that ties in with our social studies standards. Students have been learning about communities, discussing pertinent local issues, and working in small groups to brainstorm solutions and plan appropriate materials.

In math, we've kicked off a new unit on measurement. Students are leveraging their understanding of place value and counting to measure, estimate, and, as always, visually represent their thinking through various methods.

During our writing workshop, we introduced a new strategy for responding to questions about complex texts. This skill is crucial for both readers and writers and is assessed in CMAS. It's also an essential foundation for future paragraph and essay writing.

A few updates for you: There will be no school this Monday as it's a day dedicated to professional development. Mark your calendars for our School Family Thanksgiving Lunch on November 16th—more details will be sent home in your child's Friday folder. Also, don't forget that November 17th is picture retake day!

Additionally, be sure to swing by the library after school hours and on weekends for an awesome escape room experience!

Lastly, students received their reading sheets for November in their Friday folders. Remember, completing and turning in ALL reading sheets by the end of the year earns students a special field trip with SIPTA.

Thank you for your ongoing support, and I hope you have a fantastic weekend!

Warm regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 
 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for another fantastic week in second grade. The students have been engaged and enthusiastic, making our learning environment truly enjoyable.

I encourage you to take a few moments to read through this week's newsletter, which highlights some of the key activities and accomplishments in the classroom. Additionally, please be sure to check your child's Friday folder for important flyers, practice work, and completed assignments.

As we approach Veterans Day, let's take a moment to express our gratitude to all the brave men and women who have served our country. Happy Veterans Day!

Wishing you a restful and enjoyable weekend ahead.

Best regards,

--

Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 

Dear Sunnyside Families,

I hope this email finds you well. It has been a fantastic week at school, and it was truly heartwarming to see our Sunnyside families come together for a delightful meal. The sense of community was palpable, and the joy shared by all made it a memorable experience.

As we approach the upcoming break, I want to wish each of you a relaxing and enjoyable time with your loved ones. If you're looking for enriching activities during the break, please refer to my latest newsletter for at-home practice ideas. Additionally, students will be bringing home books and practice materials for those who are interested.

While we won't be sending out our regular formal newsletter this week, I wanted to highlight some important upcoming events:

  1. Thanksgiving Break:

    • From November 17th until November 27th, our school will be observing Thanksgiving break.
  2. Weekly Activities:

    • Toddler Storytime: Thursdays at 2:00 pm
    • Knitting Circle: Fridays at 3:00 pm
    • Sunnyside Book Club: 4th Monday at 5:30 pm
  3. Wreath Making Extravaganza:

    • November 30th at 3:00 pm
    • December 2nd from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
    • Join us for a festive Wreath Making Extravaganza on these dates!
  4. Afterschool Science Club with the Powerhouse:

    • September 5th to December 5th
    • Engage your child's curiosity with our Afterschool Science Club. Contact us for more details.
  5. Sunnyside Library Escape Room:

    • Saturdays 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
    • Weekdays 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm
    • Explore the Sunnyside Library Escape Room. Call the library for more information.

I hope you find time to participate in these events and create more cherished memories with your families. If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to reach out.

Wishing you a joyful break and looking forward to seeing everyone back refreshed and energized.

Best regards,

Hailey Alexander

Dear Families,

I hope this email finds you well. We've successfully wrapped up our first week back from Thanksgiving, and it's been a fantastic time of learning and growth in our classroom. Hooray!

I want to ensure that you are well-informed and actively involved in your child's education, so I kindly ask you to take a few moments to read through the latest newsletters and review the attached PDFs. These documents contain crucial information to keep you up to date and on the same page as our class.

As we enter the middle of the school year, it's time to gear up for mid-year testing. This is a significant milestone that allows us to assess your child's progress and tailor our teaching to their needs. Please pay special attention to the at-home practice materials and the practice materials that will be sent home in your child's Friday folders. Your support during this time is invaluable, and it greatly contributes to your child's success.

I appreciate your ongoing commitment to your child's education, and I want to express my gratitude for all that you do. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Wishing you and your family a wonderful weekend!

Best regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 

Dear Sunnyside Parents,

I hope this email finds you well. I am thrilled to share some wonderful news about our recent middle-of-year tests – we did it! Our amazing class not only completed the assessments but every single student has shown significant growth since the beginning of the school year. This achievement speaks volumes about the hard work and dedication of both the students and their supportive families.

The positive attitudes and enthusiasm our class displayed throughout this testing period were truly commendable. It was inspiring to witness students setting goals, giving their best effort, and showcasing what they've learned. Moments like these reinforce why I chose to be an educator – to witness the pride and growth of each student.

I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the collaborative spirit we've fostered through our communication channels. I've noticed that our bi-weekly newsletters and bi-weekly emails have been an effective way for us to work together as a team, encouraging and supporting our students' growth. Your active involvement in your child's education is truly appreciated.

As we look ahead, I'd like to keep you informed about upcoming events both in and out of the classroom. These activities provide excellent opportunities for our students to build communities beyond the school environment and enhance their social-emotional learning. Here are some noteworthy events:

  1. Toddler Storytime: Thursdays at 2:00 pm
  2. Knitting Circle: Fridays at 3:00 pm
  3. Sunnyside Book Club: 4th Monday at 5:30 pm
  4. Sunnyside Library Escape Room: Saturdays 10-1 and weekdays 3-5:30. Contact the library for more info.

Additionally, please note that Winter Break is scheduled from December 15th to January 3rd.

On another note, one of our second-grade parents is coaching a girls' basketball team for first and second graders through the Parks and Recreation Center. If we can gather enough girls from Sunnyside, we may be able to have practices here in our school gym. This would be a tremendous convenience for parents. Registration ends at the end of the month, and games and practices are set to begin in January. For further information, please reach out to Whitney at 970-749-6133 or [email protected].

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our classroom community. I am excited about the positive trajectory we are on and look forward to a fantastic rest of the school year.

Best regards,

--

Hailey Alexander

Sunnyside Elementary

Second Grade

(224) 567-9298

Dear Families,

I hope this message finds you well and gearing up for the festive season! As we approach the holidays, we are thrilled to invite you to a special holiday party and movie day in our classroom.

Event Details:

  • Date: Friday, December 15th
  • Time: 1:00pm - 2:45pm
  • Location: Our Classroom. You must enter through the front office and sign in as a visitor.

Schedule:

  • Holiday Mingling and Snacks: Please join us and bring any treats or snacks you'd like to share. Hot cocoa will be sponsored and served by SIPTA.
  •  
  • Movie Time: The screening will begin promptly at 1:15 PM.

Fun Extras:

  • Pajama Day: To make the day even more exciting, Friday will be a pajama day for all students!
  •  
  • Bring Blankets and/or Stuffies: Students are welcome to bring blankets and/or stuffies. They will be kept put away until the movie for added comfort.

We have been exploring the enchanting world of character perspectives in our reading lessons and weaving magical tales in our writing sessions. This movie choice will be a delightful culmination of these themes, providing a fun and festive experience for everyone.

Your presence and any contributions to our snacks table will undoubtedly enhance the celebration. We truly hope you can join us for this joyous occasion.

If you have any questions or if there's anything specific you'd like to bring, please feel free to let us know.

Looking forward to creating magical memories with you and your child!

Warm regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 

Dear Families,

As we gear up for our holiday celebration, we're excited to announce that we'll be watching the delightful movie "Klaus" as part of our festivities. This PG-rated cartoon comedy/adventure aligns perfectly with our current curriculum, adding an educational touch to our seasonal fun.

The film ties into our reading unit on character perspective, offering a unique lens to explore storytelling. Additionally, it complements our writing unit centered around enchanted tales, inspiring creativity and imagination. Moreover, "Klaus" provides a subtle link to our social studies unit about community, fostering a sense of togetherness.

If, for any reason, you'd prefer your child not to participate in the movie viewing, kindly respond to this email, call, or text me. We'll be more than happy to arrange an alternative activity with our dedicated staff.

Let's embrace the holiday spirit and strengthen our class community through this shared experience. The party begins at 1:00pm and the movie begins promptly at 1:15pm. Your presence will make it even more special, and I look forward to seeing you all there.

Warm regards,

Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 
(224) 567-9298

Dear Families,

Happy New Year!

This week, our focus has been on easing back into routines, reinforcing expected behaviors, and allowing students to feel successful before introducing new concepts. I am genuinely impressed and proud of the class for how well they've retained information after the holiday break.

I want to express my gratitude to you for your continued support in ensuring that learning doesn't stop outside of the classroom. Your dedication to encouraging daily reading has a significant impact on your child's progress.

As we move forward, please remember to check your child's Friday folders for important information and any papers that may need your signature and prompt return.

Next week, grades will be going out, and while there aren't official mid-year conferences, I'll be sending out a sign-up sheet for those who would like to meet with me and discuss their child's progress. Stay tuned for more information on this.

Thank you again for your ongoing support, and I wish you and your family a wonderful weekend!

Best regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 

Dear Families,

Happy Friday! I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to share some exciting updates on what our class has been working on this week.

Throughout the week, we dedicated time to review all the phonics concepts we've covered so far, ensuring their application in our writing. Additionally, we delved into essential test-taking skills, particularly when analyzing literary texts. In math, we introduced a new strategy called "The double number line," and the creativity in our class truly shines as we embark on writing our second enchanted tales.

It's evident that our students are not only hardworking but incredibly creative. Learning extends beyond the classroom walls, and I'm thrilled to see the progress they are making.

As mentioned last week, I am eager to connect with you to review goals for the remainder of the year. To make the process efficient for everyone, I will be hosting two mini workshops. The first workshop will take place on Tuesday, January 23rd, and the second on Wednesday, January 24th, both from 3:00-4:00.

During these workshops, I will provide an overview of what we've covered so far, discuss our goals for the rest of the year, and share insights on how you can support your child's learning at home. You'll leave with valuable ideas and resources to aid in reading development, a crucial skill for success across all subjects.

Please respond at your earliest convenience and let me know if either of these dates works for you. If not, feel free to suggest an alternative time or express your interest in a one-on-one meeting. This is an excellent opportunity to address any questions about grades or other curiosities you may have.

I'm looking forward to seeing you soon and discussing the wonderful progress our students are making.

Best regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 
(224) 567-9298

Dear Sunnyside Families,

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to inform you that this week, you should be receiving your child's grades. If you prefer a printed version, please reach out to the front office, and we will promptly provide you with one.

As a reminder, our grading scale includes the following:

  • N/A: Not assessed yet
  • 1: Not showing proficiency with the specific skill
  • 2: Still working on showing proficiency independently
  • 3: Proficient independently
  • 4: Exceeds expectations

You may have noticed some 2's in your child's grades. This indicates that we are currently learning and practicing that particular skill, and your child will have more opportunities to demonstrate proficiency on independent assessments. Our focus is on growth, and I am excited to witness their progress reflected on the report cards at the end of the year.

Additionally, I want to remind you about the upcoming mini workshop for families, which I will be hosting next Tuesday and Wednesday. This workshop is an excellent opportunity to gain a better understanding of your child's goals, learn how to support their learning at home, and leave with valuable resources. Please email me to let me know which day works better for you, or if you prefer a one-on-one meeting.

I look forward to seeing you all next week and working together to support your child's academic journey.

Best regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 
 
Hello Wonderful Families!
 
Apologies for the late email. I felt it was important to send a reminder for tomorrow and Wednesday's workshop from 3:00pm-4:00pm. 
 
Here's the plan:
 
  • Goal and purpose of today's workshop (5 min)

  • Review middle of year (MOY) test results (5-10 min)

  • Data dive and review end of year (EOY) goals (15 min)

  • At home practice review (15-20 min)

  • Questions, comments, or time to schedule a one-on-one conference (5 min)

There is no need to come both days as both days are the exact same schedule. Pick the day that works best for you. Also, I encourage you to bring your student and have them be a part of our conversation. Setting goals and striving for growth is part of being an agile thinker, which is our current portrait of a graduate competency.
 
I look forward to working with you either tomorrow or Wednesday. See you soon!
--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 
(224) 567-9298

Happy Friday!

I wanted to take a moment to express how incredibly proud I am of our class this week. The dedication and focus on being agile thinkers as we dove into new units in reading, science, and math have been truly commendable.

As we move forward, I'd like to draw your attention to some upcoming events and opportunities for at-home practice to further enrich our learning experiences. Please be sure to check the attached document for some fun ideas to continue learning outside of the classroom.

Additionally, I want to address a matter that has been brought to my attention regarding home support for math. While I primarily emphasize literacy, I understand the importance of a balanced approach to education. My belief is that once students become proficient readers, they can access information across all subject areas. Rest assured, the literacy resources I provide are thoroughly researched and endorsed by our district.

To ensure equitable support, I plan to send home math resources tailored to your child's growth and aligned with our curriculum objectives. It's crucial to me that we provide comprehensive resources to support your child's development in all areas of learning.

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in your child's education. I look forward to seeing everyone back in class on Tuesday!

Warm regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 

Dear Families,

I hope you've had a wonderful week! It's been a delight to witness the enthusiasm and dedication of our second-grade students as they navigated through this past week, which included the excitement of Valentine's Day. Despite the festivities, they remained focused and committed to their personal academic goals. WOOHOO for their fantastic effort!

I want to take this opportunity to remind you of a few important matters:

  1. DIBELS End of Year (EOY) Practice: Please continue to encourage your child to engage in their DIBELS EOY practice materials. These exercises are crucial in preparing them for their end-of-year assessment, setting them up for success academically.

  2. CoGAT Testing: Starting next week, CoGAT testing will commence and will take place once a week for an hour each morning over the next three weeks. This test is designed to assess students' cognitive abilities. Unlike typical assessments, CoGAT involves minimal reading or writing; instead, it focuses on using pictures, symbols, patterns, etc., to gain insight into students' thinking processes. More information about CoGAT testing was sent home in Friday Folders. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns regarding this assessment.

  3. Library Programs at Sunnyside: Our school library at Sunnyside is an incredible resource, and I'm excited to share that they generously volunteer their time to run after-school programs for our students, and the best part is they are completely free! Whether during or after school hours, please feel free to stop by the library or give them a call for more information about the programs they offer.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out. Your involvement and support are invaluable to us as we work together to ensure the success and well-being of our students.

Wishing you all a fantastic weekend, and I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday!

Warm regards,

--

Hailey Alexander

Sunnyside Elementary 

Dear Families,

I wanted to share a brief overview of what we've been up to in second grade this week, and also provide some important updates regarding upcoming events and conferences.

This week, our focus in second grade has been on fostering agile thinking skills. In our reading sessions, we delved into various aspects including contractions, understanding authors' purposes, utilizing affixes and roots to decode words, and identifying cause and effect text structures. Concurrently, we've been exploring the impact of technology and inventions throughout history on our world today, enriching our schema in the process.

In math, we've been actively addressing learning gaps based on Dreambox data, while also engaging in representing data through value bars and line plots. It's been exciting to see our math skills applied in real-world contexts.

In writing, we've been revising and editing our poems with the aim of publishing them next week, fostering creativity and attention to detail in our young writers.

On another note, we conducted a lockdown drill this week, including an evacuation onto buses. While we hope to never encounter a real threat, these drills are essential for ensuring preparedness and safety. I'm proud of how responsibly and empathetically all students handled the drill.

Additionally, we completed our first CoGAT test this Wednesday, with the next sessions scheduled for Wednesday, 2/28, and Wednesday, 3/6. Make-up sessions will be held the following week. Please ensure your child is well-rested, nourished, and prepared to do their best on these days.

Attached to this email, you'll find a Sign Up Genius link for our upcoming conferences. This will be our final academic conference of the year, providing us with an opportunity to review your child's progress based on recent assessments and progress monitors. Please select a time slot that works best for you. https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4CAFAA22A7F9CF8-48147419-parent

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out. Wishing you all a wonderful weekend, and I look forward to seeing you on Monday!

Warm regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 

Dear Families,

I hope that you've had a fantastic week so far!

I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for your support and your child's hard work during this past week at school. As we wrapped up our reading and writing units, I've been incredibly impressed by the perseverance and dedication your child has shown, especially when faced with big challenges. It's been truly inspiring to witness their growth and development. Don't forget to check your child's backpack for at home practice materials or completed work that they are proud of.

I'm looking forward to meeting with each of you individually to discuss your child's progress in more detail. These conferences will give us the opportunity to highlight their achievements (glows) and identify areas for further improvement (grows). Additionally, I'll be available to provide any support or answer any questions you may have about how to support your child's learning at home.

If you haven't already done so, please use the following link to sign up for a conference slot that works best for you: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4CAFAA22A7F9CF8-48147419-parent Your active participation in these conferences is invaluable, and I believe they will be instrumental in fostering your child's continued success.

Thank you once again for your ongoing support and partnership in your child's education. Together, I'm confident we can help them reach their full potential.

Warm regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 

Dear Families,

I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to those of you who were able to attend our meetings on Monday to discuss your child's current progress. It was truly wonderful to connect with many of you and have insightful conversations about your child's journey in our classroom.

I am delighted to share that the growth we've witnessed in our class has been nothing short of remarkable. This progress wouldn't have been achievable without the unwavering support you provide at home. Your involvement and dedication play a vital role in shaping your child's educational experience.

Despite having only a four-day week, our class showed tremendous dedication and effort. I'm proud to announce that on Wednesday, we successfully completed our CoGAT test, with only a few makeup sessions scheduled for next Wednesday.

Next week, I will be sending home the results of the CoGAT test along with some instructions on how to interpret the data and access additional information. It's important to remember that the CoGAT assessment evaluates students' thinking and reasoning skills, rather than focusing solely on reading, writing, or math.

On another note, I want to highlight the fantastic resources available at our Sunnyside library! Did you know that you can rent games, movies, books, and more? The library's hours extend beyond school hours to accommodate families, and they offer FREE after-school programs that our students absolutely love. These programs often include snacks and opportunities for creative projects to take home. What an incredible resource for our community!

I want to kindly remind you to make it a habit to check your child's Friday folders each weekend. These folders contain important documents, reminders, practice materials, and examples of celebrated school work. Additionally, I frequently send home papers that require your signature and prompt return.

Once again, I want to express my deepest appreciation for your constant support and commitment to nurturing your child's growth as a lifelong learner.

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend ahead!

Warm regards,

 
--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 
 

Dear Families,

As we approach spring break, I wanted to take a moment to express how much I will miss seeing all of you during this time. I hope your break is filled with rest, joy, and love as you spend quality time with your loved ones.

Before you fully immerse yourselves in relaxation, I have a few gentle reminders for you:

  1. Check Students' Friday Folders: Please remember to take a moment to review the contents of your child's Friday folder. I've sent home the CoGAT results, and if you have any questions or concerns regarding these, please don't hesitate to reach out to Whitney Vaughan. You can find her contact information at the bottom of the letter in your child's Friday folder.

  2. Library Hours: The library will remain open during the break, with extended hours until 7pm. It's a fantastic opportunity to drop by and indulge in books, movies, games, and utilize the computers. The library provides a safe and warm environment for everyone to enjoy.

  3. Encouraging Learning at Home: During our recent conferences, I emphasized the importance of questioning to promote learning at home. Encourage your child to think critically and justify their answers. Practicing this skill—answering questions with complete sentences—will greatly benefit them across all subject areas.

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in your child's education. Your involvement is truly invaluable.

Wishing you all a fantastic spring break filled with laughter, relaxation, and cherished moments. I look forward to seeing everyone back on Monday, March 25th.

Warm regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 

Dear Families,

I'm pleased to report that this week was a smooth transition back into our rigorous learning routines at Sunnyside Elementary.

In phonics, we explored the versatility of the "ch" sound, discovering that it can say either /k/ or /sh/, as exemplified in words like "technology" and "chef."

Our reading workshop unit on fictional story elements, particularly focusing on fables and folktales, has come to an end. Throughout this unit, students engaged in discussions, comparisons, and analyses of themes, and provided ample textual evidence to support their interpretations.

In science, we embarked on an exciting journey into space, specifically investigating how stars change with the seasons. To deepen our understanding, students built star trackers, which they brought home today.

In math, we've started our final unit on ages and timelines. Students are using their addition and subtraction strategies to map ages using timelines and number lines, emphasizing the importance of place value.

In writing, we introduced a new form of opinion writing, where students tackled dilemmas and expressed their opinions on potential solutions. This led to enriching discussions and the practice of writing well-developed paragraphs.

Please note the following upcoming events:

  • -I will be absent next Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.
  • -The Durango Celtic Festival will take place from March 29th to 31st in the Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College. Please see the attached PDF for more information.
  • -Join us for the Peep-o-rama award ceremony in the school library on April 4th.
  • -The library will host the last two Kids Krafternoon Adventure sessions on Tuesday, April 9th and 23rd. The theme is Fab Food Fun - Make it, Shake it, Bake it. Best of all, it's completely free! For more information, please contact [email protected].
  • -Edible Books on Thursday, April 11th! See the attached pdf for more information.
  • -There will be no school on Monday, April 15th, due to a professional development day for our staff.

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in your child's education. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Warm regards,

Hailey Alexander

Dear Families,

What a week it has been at [School Name]! With the warm weather finally upon us, we're all buzzing with excitement about the opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.

In addition to soaking up the sun, our students had the privilege of becoming cheerleaders for the 5th graders during CMAS. The camaraderie and support shared between the grades were truly heartwarming.

Moreover, the last 20 minutes of each day were dedicated to combined classes engaging in thrilling team-building activities. It was an excellent chance for our students to exercise their POG competencies, stretch their legs after prolonged periods of sitting, and foster relationships with peers beyond their usual classrooms. I must say, I was thoroughly impressed by the cooperation and enthusiasm displayed by everyone!

Please take a moment to check your child's backpack this weekend. They'll find a treasure trove of old work and practice materials aimed at encouraging growth beyond the classroom. Additionally, keep an eye out for an invitation to our end-of-year classroom party! Snacks, games, and a plethora of resources to combat the "summer slide" will be awaiting your child's enjoyment. Remember, we still have plenty of time to work hard and master new concepts and skills. Together, we've got this!

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in your child's education. Here's to another week of learning and growth!

Warm regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 

Dear Families,

I hope this email finds you well and ready for the weekend ahead. Here's a brief overview of our week at Sunnyside and some ways you can support your child's learning at home.

In reading, we kicked off a captivating new unit called "Pioneers in Flight," where we explore the fascinating world of flight and how the past influences our future. This unit offers a fantastic opportunity for students to delve into history while honing their reading skills.

In writing, students are beginning to craft their own informational texts as experts, aligning perfectly with our reading unit. Encouraging your child to share their newfound knowledge and expertise at home can enhance their understanding and confidence in writing.

In math, we've been delving into timelines to reinforce addition and subtraction strategies, encouraging students to experiment with new approaches. Daily practice with math concepts at home can reinforce learning and build proficiency.

Don't forget the importance of daily reading! Encourage your child to read for pleasure every day to continue their growth as a reader and expand their knowledge on various topics.

In your child's Friday folder, you'll find at-home practice materials, along with important flyers and information about upcoming events like picture day and Scholastic Book Clubs.

Looking ahead, next week marks our final week of learning and practicing new and challenging concepts before we dive into end-of-year (EOY) testing. Please ensure your child arrives on time and feeling their best so we can set them up for success during these assessments.

As always, thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in your child's education. Enjoy the wonderful weather and have a fantastic weekend!

Warm regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 
Hi Families,

I hope this email finds you well amidst the sea of emails we all receive daily! I wanted to send a quick clarification regarding an important event happening this week.

On Thursday, May 2nd, our students will be showcasing their musical talents! The students have put in tremendous effort over the past few weeks, and they're eager to show off their hard work.

Please ensure that your child arrives at Sunnyside by 5:50 PM or earlier, as the show will begin promptly at 6:00 PM. It's imperative that each student plans to be present for this performance.

Our music teacher, Amy, always puts on wonderful shows, and I guarantee you won't want to miss it!

Thank you for your attention to this matter, and we look forward to seeing you and your child at the musical showcase!

Best regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 

Dear Families,

I wanted to remind you that tomorrow marks the beginning of our end-of-year testing for reading and math. It's crucial that your child is well-rested and feeling their best to perform their best.

Throughout the year, I've sent home numerous resources for practice, but if you need additional ideas or support, please don't hesitate to reach out. Your child's success is our top priority, and we're here to assist in any way we can.

Additionally, I'm excited to announce that I'll be hosting another end-of-year workshop to provide resources and ideas for summer learning. I believe it's essential to keep the momentum going over the break to ensure continued growth.

I'm eagerly looking forward to seeing the remarkable progress our class has made. Let's approach these tests with confidence and determination!

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Warm regards,

--
Hailey Alexander
Sunnyside Elementary 
(224) 567-9298