New Phone System

Exciting news, Bohemia now has a new phone system. When you call the school you will have an option of calling your child's teachers directly. Of course, the phones will be turned on silent during class time. However, I will be checking the voice mail several times during the day for any messages. More information about the new phone systems will be going home in the school newsletter. Here are some important tips:

* If you are calling about a transportation change please call directly to the office. If you leave a message on voice mail it may not reach the teacher before the end of the school day.

*If you are calling about attendance please call directly to the office as well.

Welcome Back! Look Out for Penguins

Hi Families,

How exciting to be back after the holidays! There is a lot to look forward too in first grade over the next few weeks. We will be starting our Penguin unit of study on Tuesday when the kiddos come back to school. Room 4 will be all about Penguins. We will read, write, measure, and research the different kinds of penguins that live around the world. If your family has any photos, books, magazines, or movies that are penguin related don't hesitate to let your kiddo bring it in for show and tell. Our new policy on show and tell is that students may bring in anything that is related to what we are studying. I will be posting some great links for further exploration of penguins later on after the unit gets underway.

We have some more changes happening in first grade as well. Your child will now be receiving spelling instruction in his/her homeroom instead of reading groups starting next week. Spelling homework will be sent home on the first day of the week, and the packet will be due on Fridays. You may need to help your student with extra practice as well because the spelling words and rules that we will be studying are going to be relatively complex. Of course, if you have questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to call.

Thanks for all of your care and support this year!
~Mrs. Elliott

Request for Nature Pictures

Hello Families,
Our class is trying to start picture files for kids to help them build vocabulary and understand social studies and science concepts. If your family has old magazines with nature pictures in them we would love to have them donated to the classroom. Please let me know if you can help!

~Mrs. Elliott

Upcoming Owl Unit

Next week we will be studying owls and doing a science experiment where we get to dissect owl pellets. If you would like to come and help, just let me know, or if you have any great information to share! I've uploaded some fun crafts and informational websites for you to explore as a family. Hope you all have a happy weekend!

Fall Conferences

Hello families!

I wanted to let you know that parent-teacher conferences will be held on:

Wednesday, October 17th (2:00-8:00)
Thursday, October 18th (2:00-4:00)

Please return the conference request time form in your child's homework folder. I will be trying my best to schedule you during the times you have indicated. Your invitation will be sent home soon. Also, remember that students will be released early both Wednesday and Thursday that week at 1:25 pm. Thanks for your help! I can't wait to meet with you individually to discuss your child's progress.