Thursday, August 14

Work, Work, Work!  That is what we did today! We worked on our Reading Counts Quizes, we worked on our writing outlines, we worked on reading at our lexile, we even worked on making our first posts in Kidblog.  Feel free to check ot our TEAM33 and TEAM Shoultz blog posts, but keep in mind, some of us are finishing our posts tomorrow.  So if it looks like it isn't finished, it probably isn't; but check back tomorrow!

Tomorrow we will begin Literacy with our Friday assessment.  It is always over our learning objectives.  This week's learning objectives are:

• Identify and discuss the characteristics of a good listener.
• Define collaboration.
• Continue identifying rules and expectations.
• 
  

BEFORE YOU GO:

Be sure to check out our Picture Gallery! Our Week 2 photos are by Hayleigh and Ethan. 

Here is what our Classroom Reporters, Neveah and Annika, have to say about our week so far:

"In Mrs. McCain's class we are writing about what we want to be when we grow up, so we can post it on Kidblog."

"In Music, Mrs. Ludwig is AWESOME!"

"We are now doing real centers in Math! We are reviewing line segments, rays and all that stuff.  It is really fun and people were paying attention! Thanks Miss Shoultz!"

"Sammy and Ethan like doing stunts.  They can jump off the rope tree and do a cannon ball off the bench and always land it!"

"Whoever passes the Reading Counts quiz, When I Grow Up, gets to put their name on Mrs. McCain's magic board."

"This week we are taking NWEA.  I know we are going to pass!!  Woohoo!"

Wednesday, August 13

Today was a lot of fun.  We began literacy block with a book by AL Yankovic. Yep, that's right, Wierd Al is now doing a marvelous job of writing children's books.  Just like in the book, the students are encouraged to leave their options open, but pick one possibility for their future.  They all have a WKST for homework.

After enjoying the book, we talked about 4th grade Reading Counts expectations.  We even took a test together and I modeled what to do if a student does not pass a Reading Counts Quiz.

If you would like to engage your child in a discussion about their school day, ask them how Reading Counts procedures are different in 4th grade than other grades.

Tuesday, August 12

Today we took the NWEA.  Students did a great job focusing.  Impressivly many of the student's scores went up since last Fall.  That says a lot about the parents and the opportunites you have given your children to grow over the summer.  Thank you!  Your support is very appreciated.

After completeing the NWEA I spoke individually with each student about how they felt they did and their Lexile.  Each child chose a book for tonight's homework that correlates to their score.
Thanks for another great day fourth grade!!

Monday, August 11

Today was a wonderful day filled with data. We started by reviewing our assessment from Friday. It was over rules and expectations. Everyone did very well.

Then we graphed our data in our binder so we can track our data throughout the year. Tonight's homework will be to reflect on the data with our family. On the Reflection Page there is a spot for both the student and parent signature. Please collaborate to help your child reflect on their week and set worthwhile goals for the week ahead.

While you are discussing the week you might want to use the Literacy Link Newsletter to see what is planned for the week. Please note that NWEA Literacy testing is tomorrow and NWEA Math testing is Thursday.

As always if you have any questions, comments or concerns - especially as we are getting started with so many new procedures - please don't hesitate to contact me.

Friday, August 8

Check out our Twitter and Facebook pages for some incredible pics!!

Thursday, August 7

Hello parents and students of the 2014 - 2015 school year! You are recieving this message, because you are part of  TEAM33.  In an attemp to keep you updated on all classroom happenings, I have created many ways for us to communicate.

TEAM33 has a Facebook and Twitter page where we share pictures, celebrate achievements, and keep in touch about upcoming events.

TEAM33 also uses a TEAM Blog to give you daily updates and reminders.

One of the best ways to quickly find all TEAM33 information is to check out our website at http://goo.gl/FX5ak.  On the website you will find our class calendar, homework assignments, daily updates, classroom resources and useful links.  You will also find a Email Subscription page.  If you are recieving this email you are already subscribed; but, if you have grandparents, friends, or other care givers that you feel will benefit from the daily updates, please feel free to add them to the subscription.

The students and I have been working on ideas for updateing the images on our site to reflect the new school year.  They are working tonight to gather materials for our picture day tomorrow. So stay tuned as our sites and social media begin to reflect the personalities of this amazing group of students.

As always, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns you may contact me directly at mccainm@franklinschools.org or (317) 738-5780.

After reading this email, I would like you to send me a simple reply so I can be assured you are recieving our TEAM33 information.

Thank you so much!  I am looking very forward to getting to know you better throughout the year.

Mrs. Melisa McCain

Thursday, May 29th

Once Team33, Always Team33!

Wow!  This is the hardest post I have had to write!  I am sitting alone in my room, with out the smiles that brighten each of my day.  Knowing that the kids - many that have been with me for 2 years now - will not be returning...well, it makes my heart ache.  They are a big part of my life and I will miss them all terribly!!

At the same time, all I can do is smile with PRIDE at what great students we are sending to CBIS!  Your students will bring such laughter, love and value to CBIS. CBIS is ready for them and they are most definitly ready for CBIS!

With all that said, I just want to reinforce our sincere saying, "Once TEAM33, Always TEAM33!" So if ever you have the chance to stop back by the classroom or join in on a future Dinner Date, please don't hesitate!!  You will always be welcome.