Times Squared Academy ~ 5th Grade Newsletter

5^th Grade June newsletter

With the end of each school year comes reflection on the great deal of accomplishments that our students have to be so proud of. As we piece together our portfolios to pass on to the sixth grade teachers, we share in your child’s joy as we recognize how far everyone has progressed over the past ten months. The feeling we as teachers get to experience when your child compares work from the beginning of the year to most recent pieces is beyond words. Imagine how gratifying it is for fifth graders to hold in their hands proof of progress from a “1 or a 2” in writing to a “3 or a 4”! Or how excited they are when they remember to September and the level R or S texts that they plowed through, and now compare them to the level T, U, or V that they are capable of. Each and every one of our students has come such a long way, and we are so grateful for the time spent guiding them to achievement!

As the year wraps up on the calendar, the pace in our classrooms is far from winding down. We are completing several end-of-the-year assessments, including the DRA (level V is the target), reading comprehension (initial understanding, text-based, analysis and interpretation), word recognition, informational writing, and math facts. All of these components will be placed in your child’s portfolio to be sent on to sixth grade.

Ms. Salman’s class has recently completed their study of the Civil War through our Blue vs. Gray unit, with a culminating play that was performed on May 23^rd. Mrs. Gaulin’s class also presented their play, Midnight at the Black History Museum, on May 9^th. Both classes wish to thank all of the families that were able to attend. All of our students put a tremendous amount of work into the preparation of their performances, and their efforts are surely recognized! Mrs. Brodeur’s class play, African Folktales, will be presented on June 11^th at 9:30 a.m. We hope to see you there!

Ms. Salman’s class will wrap the year up with their study of Africa, while Mrs. Gaulin’s and Mrs. Brodeur’s classes will finish through the last day of school exploring the causes and effects of the Civil War.

It is imperative that your child continue to read, read, and read some more over the summer to avoid summer regression. Students are expected to enter sixth grade on level V texts. Also, be on the lookout for a handout from our sixth grade teachers detailing supplies that your child will need for next year.

Have a safe and happy summer!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Brodeur, Mrs. Gaulin, and Ms. Salman