Back to School Letter

September 2008

Dear Parents:

¡Bienvenido! Welcome back to another year at RMS! I am excited to have your children in Spanish II this year. I look forward to getting to know them & as we explore the Spanish language & culture. We will begin the year with a layered project to review & revisit concepts from last year. Below is a summary of class procedures, polices & expectations. After reading the letter, sign & return the classroom agreement section at the bottom.

Shopping list: I distributed a list of supplies that will help your child stay organized & be successful. Either an individual notebook or a section of a notebook is fine for my class plus a 3-hole-punched folder. I believe students should use what works best for them.

Homework: Homework will be assigned most days & cumulatively carries as much weight as a unit test. It will not be accepted late. I do not penalize for incorrect homework but the students must demonstrate a reasonable effort. Assignments missed due to illness can be made up but assignments missed due to field trips or appointments are due on time. Homework will be posted daily.

Assessment: In order to meet the needs of all students, I assess in a variety of ways – small checkups will on one topic or concept, cumulative pruebas (“tests”) at the end of each etapa (“chapter”), larger unit exams at the end of each unit (3 etapas), oral presentations & a variety of projects & activities. ALL will be announced in advance.
Extra help: I am available for extra help if needed. Students should see me to arrange a time that is convenient.

Contacting me: I will respond to your concerns as quickly as possible. The best way to reach me is email – Brenda.cochario@fpks.org but you may also call me at 973-822-3855 X2123. Please check my blog (bcochario.edublogs.org) as I will be posting important information & documents (including this letter) in addition to daily homework.

Please feel free to contact me at any time with questions or concerns. And thank you for sharing your children with me again this year. I am looking forward to a wonderful year! Through our cooperative efforts, I know that it will be a fun & productive learning experience.

Sincerely,

Brenda G. Cochario, Teacher of Spanish

My child & I have read your letter regarding class policies & procedures. In addition, my child _______________ has or will have a Spanish/English dictionary for his/her use at home.

I know that I can reach you at brenda.cochario@fpks.org or 973-822-3855, X 2123 & that homework is posted daily. Should you need to contact me, I can be reached at the following phone # and/or email address during the day:
_______________________________________________________________________________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian