Welcome Back!!

Welcome back to TMSE! Or, if you are new to us this year...welcome!! I hope that by the time I make my next post, I have lots of new followers that make up my new great group of parents! We are off to a great start in second grade. It always so amazing to me to see how much the first graders have changed over the summer and also how many changes take place over the course of the school year! The biggest change in second grade (in the classroom) is how independent we encourage our students to become. For some, this has happened naturally between first and second grade, and it is a more daunting task for others. Rest assured that we will work throughout the school year to grow independent learners who are beginning to take responsibility for their own learning and actions. I have learned a LOT in just the first few days of school! There is a student in my room who was born in Indiana (just like me!!), I have tennis players, horseback riders, readers, world travelers, artists, writers...it is AMAZING! I can't wait to see how they all continue to grow and learn. Yesterday, LOTS of things came home from the district, and thank you so much for returning it so quickly! Today, there is a classroom packet from me that I hope will help outline for you what second grade is all about. Additional information will continue to come home as we move further into the year, but please keep that packet to answer many questions you might have. Also, there is a special assignment in their folder for tonight. I have asked that ahead of reading Chrysanthemum, students ask a few questions about why their name is special and how it is a perfect fit for them. Lastly, thank you so much to the parents who are being so patient and flexible as we work out afternoon car pick up. Already today, the administration between all three schools have made some adjustments that I hope made your afternoon much better! Always, if you have any questions or concerns, send me an email (lnbechtel@tusc.k12.al.us) or put a note in your students folder. I promise I will respond within 24 hours, or sooner if necessary! We are off to a great start to what I know is going to be an amazing school year! Thank you for the support you have already shown and in advance for your continued support throughout the school year!