Back to School Night!

September 19, 2017

Welcome fifth graders and parents:

I had the pleasure of meeting several of you already, but allow me to introduce myself:  my name is Suzanne Smith.  I have been a part of the Maplewood community for the past 22 years as a parent to three, PTA board member, volunteer, and finally teacher.  

This is a second (third?  fourth?) career for me and my 8th year of teaching. In addition to me, we are lucky to have a student teacher this year:  

Mr. Austin Connell.  He is currently in Lewis & Clark’s Masters in the Art of Teaching program and is excited to experience 5th graders!

In 2009 I received my M.A.T. degree from Lewis & Clark’s Graduate School of Education - the same program Austin is currently in.   I believe children are naturally curious, intrinsically imaginative, and thrive when learning is active, meaningful, and differentiated. I strive to create a safe and respectful learning environment that celebrates the unique contributions of our students, their families, and our school.  I love themes and connecting our learning across the curriculum.  

We are committed to lifelong learning, both for ourselves and our students.  Learning occurs in many places – not just in our classroom.  You have a big impact on your student’s success – whether it be at home or in the classroom.  I welcome you to volunteer in our classroom - not job is too small, be it copying or leading small group literature circles, copying, field-trip chaperone(s), and small groups (reading & math).  If you are interested please email me.

-over-

Here is what your students and I will study this school year:

Literature Block

• Reading Street by Scott Foresman including grammar and comprehension
• Read-Aloud ‘s
• SSR = “Sustained Silent Reading” = kids read their own book!
• Literature Circles

Writing

• Writing with Grade 5 ‘Units of Study’ including:
• Personal Narrative
• Imaginative Narrative
• Expository/Research  (Native American, musician & State Reports)
• Persuasive - if time allows

Math

• Bridges:  Portland Public School’s math curriculum     

Social Studies Units with Mr. Kaplan

• Geography, Native American Unit and project, US History, and State Project

Science

• Variables Unit, Earth, Moon & Sun Unit, and Microworlds Unit

Health

• In the spring:  F.L.A.S.H.  (Family Life and Sexual Health)

Specials

• P.E., library, dance, technology and ART.

Thank you for sending your student on time and ready by 8am!  Also, a big thank you for sending your student with 4 composition journals, cash or check made out to Maplewood for $40 for classroom supplies, and returning the OPENING SCHOOL PACKET with forms completed.  If for any reason any costs are a hardship at any point in the year, don’t hesitate to let me know and we will take care of it - no questions asked.

Email is the best method in which to contact me with any questions or concerns.  My email is ssmith@pps.net .  The school phone number is

(503) 916-6308 and our school secretary, Maria, will transfer you to our classroom between her hours of 7:15 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.  I can also be reached at: https://smithclass2018.blogspot.com/   I hope to post often – so stay tuned!  Also, ask your student to include you in their Google Classroom account.

Happy New School Year - it is going to be SUPER!

Ms. Smith

Maplewood, 5th Grade