IN Brentwood-Baldwin-Whitehall Fall 2016 | Page 96

WELCOME TO THE CLASS OF 2029 By Mrs. Patricia J. Fusco, Principal, Paynter Elementary School and Mr. Daniel J. Emanuelson, Principal, McAnnulty Elementary School BAL DWI N -WH ITE H AL L SC H OO L D IS TRIC T NE WS aldwin-Whitehall Life has no event comparable to a child’s first day of school. Both the child and parent have looked forward to this day with tremendous anticipation. It is a special and memorable day for everyone. Every employee in every position within the Baldwin-Whitehall School District is entrusted with our community’s most precious resource and believes that this trust must be met with a serious commitment and a strong sense of purpose. From day one to graduation day, we are here for one universal purpose. We are all here to cultivate happy successful children, whose education propels them to be confident and contributing members of our community. The staff of Baldwin-Whitehall is here to help students and parents make this adjustment smoothly and successfully. Our goal is to be a resource and aid to you in this time of transition. What Is Staggered Start? Staggered start begins the school year with rolling enrollment, rather than having all students start on the first day. If a classroom has 24 children, then 8 students start on the first day, a different 8 start on the second day, and a different 8 start on the third day. Then, on the fourth day, everyone arrives. The District chose to change to staggered start to implement best practices in education, as staggered start allows staff to assess children individually, get an idea of where they stand academically, and best meet their needs. If each teacher has 7–8 students present for the first three days, they can complete an assessment more easily. Staggered start also creates a better classroom experience for students. Teaching 7–8 children new routines is easier than trying to teach 24 students new routines. Consider how much easier it is for 8 children at a time to learn to go through the lunch line, rather than 160 children showing up in the cafeteria with no idea of what’s going on. With staggered start, students are much calmer and receive more individual attention. How Can I Prepare My Child for School? Five areas to help your student succeed: 1. Provide opportunities for your child to play with other children and understand sharing. 2. Help your child become at least a little familiar with letters and numbers. 3. Read to your child at home. 4. Communicate to your child that they are capable and that school is exciting. Children take their reaction cues from their parents. While it is normal for parents and children to feel some trepidation about an unknown, set the tone for your child by being upbeat when you discuss school and remember to send them off with a big smile and an assurance that they are going to do great—at least until they are out of sight. (We’ll save a tissue for you after that!) 5. Communicate with the school and get involved. While schedule constraints can be pressing, there are plenty of opportunities to be involved at multiple levels. Be as involved as possible so you can understand and assist with what your child is learning. 94 Brentwood-Baldwin-Whitehall Mrs. Fusco Mr. Emanuelson Never let them see you cry! You will miss your child more than they will miss you - but that’s a good thing! You want your child to thrive and be successful, and that can’t achieve their potential if they are crying or sad at school. Model an upbeat, positive behavior even though first days are an emotional roller coaster for everyone. Don’t hesitate to call your child’s teacher after a few hours have passed and he or she will be delighted to give you an update on your child’s experience. What Kindergarten Means to Your Child We believe that Kindergarten is a place where children • feel good and comfortable about themselves and others • learn to work and play with many new friends • feel safe and secure • learn important and exciting new concepts • meet success in many activities and learning situations • discover that learning is fun • develop responsibility • express themselves creatively • learn to respect authority while looking to the teacher for help and guidance • work in a classroom atmosphere of helpfulness and cooperation • enjoy opportunities to plan and share • have a wonderful day!