Hello! As summer fades away and the days grow shorter, the halls of Holy Cross are buzzing with the energy of a new school year. Our fifth-graders are back and ready to dive into a year filled with growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences.
Exploring Specials and Setting Expectations
Our fifth graders have been to almost all of their “specials” classes by now. This year, the fifth and sixth grade classes will be having art and gym together. I love that they will get to spend this time together to get to know each other better. When we enter into Middle School Mode, we will get together with the sixth grade class often.
Our fifth graders have also been introduced to the expectations of fifth grade. As they transition into the upper elementary years, they’re learning the importance of responsibility, time management, and organization. These skills will be vital as we work towards preparing ourselves for middle school.
Gearing Up for Academic Success
The start of the school year wouldn’t be complete without a few baseline assessments. Our math and social studies tests give us a better understanding of where we might need a little extra support or provide us an opportunity to show off our knowledge. A few more assessments will follow in various subjects throughout the remainder of the week. These assessments are designed to gauge individual progress and help tailor my teaching to best suit the needs of each student. They will not officially graded.
Embracing GRIT and Personal Responsibility
The theme of fifth grade is embracing the power of GRIT. We’ve engaged in discussions about the importance of determination, resilience, and courage. This year might present challenges and difficulties, but with the right mindset, there’s nothing that we can’t achieve. We also discussed that failures are not permanent and with out those failures, we wouldn’t grow and continue to learn. As long as we continue to work hard and give our effort, success is a guarantee!
“Perfect is not always getting 100%… Perfect is giving 100% of your effort.”
“Grit is passion and perseverance for very long-term goals. Grit is having stamina. Grit is sticking with your future, day in, day out, not just for the week, not just for the month, but for years, and working really hard to make that future a reality. Grit is living life like it’s a marathon, not a sprint.”
Supply Lists and Parent Surveys
As the school year begins, we understand that there might be a few missing items on the supply lists. No worries—please make sure to bring in any remaining supplies by Monday so that everyone is well-prepared for the school year.
Also, a friendly reminder to parents to please return the parent surveys by Friday. Your feedback is invaluable in helping me create the best possible learning environment for my students.
Music, Mass, and Buddy Classes
Exciting times are ahead! Our fifth graders are gearing up for their small group band lessons starting tomorrow. If your child has an instrument, please make sure they bring it to school for this exciting musical adventure.
On Friday, we’ll gather for our first school Mass of the year. Additionally, we’ll be meeting our buddy class, the Preschool students, who we will be doing various fun activities with throughout the year. This special connection promotes friendship, mentorship, and a sense of community within our school.
Let’s Stay Connected
If you have any questions or concerns as the year progresses, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.
Please feel free to browse this website and check out the different resources and past blog posts!
Check out our Google Drive with our classroom photos. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1bouDfu1viz9-IoAsBSQBu4sIvNijL5yc?usp=sharing
I upload pictures of our class almost daily of the fun things we do. As a parent I love seeing the day-to-day fun inside my boys classroom and also know that sometimes getting a peak into the classroom can help you connect with them about their day. I hope you enjoy the pictures and take time to go through them with your child.
As we look ahead to the rest of the school year, the class is filled with anticipation and excitement. With determination, courage, and the power of GRIT, our fifth graders are well-equipped to conquer challenges and achieve success. Let’s make this a year to remember!
Mrs. A