The beginning of the school year brings new teachers, new friends, maybe even a new backpack. Everything about the first few weeks of school can seem new — and sometimes can be a little overwhelming to students and grown-ups alike. It can be hard to know what to expect in those early weeks!
Fortunately, this year, TCS is using The First Six Weeks of School, a responsive classroom approach that focuses on the important first six weeks of school. Careful planning in the first six weeks provides a solid foundation for student’s learning. The overarching goals for the First Six Weeks of School, written by Paula Denton and Roxann Kriete are to:
1) create a climate of warmth, inclusion, and safety
2) teach classroom routines and behavior expectations
3) help students get to know and care for the classroom and school environment
4) establish expectations for academic work.
Week One Ending August 21:
“During the first week of school, we continue the foundation building we began on day one to help every child be successful academically, socially, and emotionally. This week, we want every student to:
- Experience a collaborative and inclusive environment in which they can successfully do inspiring academic work.
- Make personal connections by working with a variety of classmates and learning and practicing each other’s names.
- Practice essential academic routines (such as silent reading and sustained writing) and daily routines (transitions, lunch, recess, bathroom, and so on).
- Explore some key academic supplies (books, math manipulatives, writing supplies).
- Generate learning goals (or “hopes and dreams”) for the year and see their work proudly displayed.
- Brainstorm a list of possible classroom rules in Grades 3-4 (students in grades K-2 will do this in week three).
For more information, contact Melissa Scott or Michelle Toma-Harrold.
Check back for information on our second week of school!
