Welcome Back!
Dear Parents,
I may be in the minority here, but I am relieved that the holidays are over so I can get back to work and relax! You see, when you have two weeks off it provides ample opportunity to begin and complete all of the home improvement projects that I've been able to put off since August. Now for most people, it's nothing to sweat about and they even look forward to working on these that should increase the value of your home. However my greatest handyman skill is not putting in a garage door opener or constructing an electrical outlet box for the basement (both attmepted, the second to nearly dangerous circumstances) but my greatest skill involves writing a check for someone more knowledgeable to actually do these for me (more realistic and doesn't interfere with my video game time!) I tried to convince Samantha, my wife, that the past two weeks was a time for rest and relaxation, which she counterpointed that I would really enjoy since I would be so tired from completing the honey-do list. After some discussion, we finally compromised that I would just complete my honey-do list and cease my whining, and at completion of my projects I would be given some sort of allowance. I told Sam that I was going to join a husband's union where I could have a better labor agreement, which she reminded me that I was already in one, my Fantasy Football league. In short, I'm thrilled to be back in the classroom where (most of the time) I know what I'm doing!!!
It was wonderful to see all the students again, I think some of them grew several inches while they were away. They have made a wonderful transition back in the classroom, and have picked up where they left off of doing some great work! I would like to thank each of you so much for your kindness and generosity to me for the holidays, Sam and I are still enjoying our gift cards and candy! I am really blessed, not only to have the greatest students in the school, but to have wonderfully supportive parents such as yourselves! Thank you again for all you do for our classroom and your child's education!
This week there are several important events you should be aware of. Today I sent home a flyer promoting Varner's "Kroger Math Night". It will be Thursday, January 11 at the Kroger at Varner Crossing. If your last name begins with A-M, please come from 6:00-7:00 PM. If your last name begins with N-Z, please attend from 7:00-8:00. I hate that I have to miss this activity, but my first class of the new semester starts tomorrow night, so I will be unable to attend. Please support Varner if your schedule permits and come to Kroger, I'm sure it will be lots of fun for the kids and as a family! Secondly, on Friday, report cards are being sent home through the blue take home folders. From what I've seen, we will be very happy with the results, this class has been awesome and always give their personal best on their assignments. The report card will be sent in an envelope with a signature card. You may keep the copy of the report card. Please sign the white signature card on the line that reads "Second 9 Weeks", and return it with the envelope on Monday or at your earliest convenience. If it is not returned, I will have no choice but to call the university which your child is applying for enrollment in 12 years and inform them of this oversight. I'm sure they won't laugh and hang up on me. Seriously, just return the white card and envelope and keep the report card for refridgerator material.
I have had several parents request information on a website we frequent in our class so I thought I would just post it and give it to everyone. It is www.internet4classrooms.com. It is a great site for kids that has available games based on their first grade skills. First, type in the web address, click on "assessment assistance", then click on "1st grade skills". The kids love going there and it literally contains hundreds of online activities for them involving math, reading, and other language arts skills. You may have to help them navigate to the list of games/activities, and as always, monitor what and how they are doing. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. This site is great for extra (and even extended to higher grade level) practice!
As far as classroom needs, right now we are in need of water bottles and post it notes. If you have those available or can donate those items it would be greatly appreciated! Thanks again for all your support, if you have any questions please email me at john.foster@cobbk12.org. Take care!!! Kendall Foster
