January 25 Update

Report Cards
Second quarter ended last Friday. You will be able to view your child's report card on Net Classroom this Saturday. Please contact me if you need a reminder of log-in information for Net Classroom. Paper copies of middle school report cards will be sent home upon request only. Thank you for taking time to look at your child's report card with him or her. It is very beneficial for students to take time and reflect about their progress so far this year.

Generally, I have been a little concerned about some less than exemplary study habits of 7th grade students lately. I have been sharing with them in class that they need to continue to study for quizzes, complete homework assignments, and come to class prepared each day. I'd appreciate your help reinforcing those ideas at home. If you are wondering if your child has late or missing assignments, please see Net Classroom. I want to be consistent in encouraging them that great work is possible for them, but that it requires hard work.

Friday, January 28
We are going to see a play production of "Wednesday Wars" based on Gary Schmidt's book we read as a class last year. We'll leave school at 11:15 on Friday. Hot lunch will be available for us early that day; if your child ordered a walking taco for this Friday, it will be ready at 11 a.m. when we eat lunch. We will return to school around 2:30 and spend the remainder of the day reflecting on the play through some discussions and writing activities.

Language Arts
We are still working on mechanics rules. The students have a quiz over noticing and repairing run-on sentences in writing on Thursday. The test over this unit will most likely be sometime late next week. The students will receive a study guide prior to the test. However, it is important that they are staying up on studying and understanding the material we have covered so far (particularly commas, abbreviations, punctuation, and repairing run-on sentences).

Miscellaneous
*Thanks to everyone who sent in treats for our going away party for Naomi last Friday. It was a very nice celebration and time for the students to say goodbye.
*Mr. Dave wants you to know that he updated his blog. (http://mrdavescorner.blogspot.com/)
*Parent Teacher Conferences are scheduled for Thursday, February 17 and Tuesday, February 22 from 4-8 p.m.