Jay M -- Blogmeister

The Week Ahead: Days 42-46

Article posted November 15, 2009 at 08:53 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 500

• Mondays and Fridays: Fundraiser money accepted
• November 17th: BOLD Theater Performance “Romeo & Juliet”
• November 18th: Report cards and work reports coming home! Please sign and return as soon as possible.
• November 19th: Happy Birthday Tanesha!
• November 19th: John Latimer coming to visit us and talk about Phenology
• November 20th: Early Release-1:40 p.m.
• November 26-27th: No School-Thanksgiving Break
• November 27th: Happy Birthday Courtney!
• November 28th: Happy Birthday Jamila!
• December 1st: Happy ½ Birthday Keyon (June 1st)

Article posted November 15, 2009 at 08:53 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 500

Article posted November 8, 2009 at 10:41 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 744

This Week in Notes: Days 42-46

Article posted November 8, 2009 at 10:40 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 37

Hello families! This week will bring a close to the first quarter. I had an old calendar that stated that the end of the quarter was November 20th. That was incorrect. All work is due at the end of this quarter and nothing from the first quarter will be accepted after Friday. Thanks for helping out with any late work. I will send home an updated missing work report this Tuesday. I will ask that you sign and return this. I will work with your child to get learning sheets and activities organized to bring home or to their after-school program.

You will notice on Tuesday through Thursday we will be talking about smoking and what smoking can do to a human body. This is a quick mini-unit in our health program and focuses on the effects of smoking. If you have any questions about the curriculum please give me a call.

Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, comments or concerns.

Article posted November 8, 2009 at 10:40 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 37

The Week Ahead: Days 37-41

Article posted November 8, 2009 at 10:39 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 38

• November 9th: Happy Birthday Cory!
• November 13th: UMD Weber Music Field Trip
• November 13th: End of First Quarter-All Work Due
• November 17th: BOLD Theater Performance “Romeo & Juliet”
• November 19th: Happy Birthday Tanesha!
• November 20th: Early Release
• November 26-27th: No School-Thanksgiving Break
• November 27th: Happy Birthday Courtney!
• November 28th: Happy Birthday Jamila!
• December 1st: Happy ½ Birthday Keyon (June 1st)

Article posted November 8, 2009 at 10:39 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 38

Article posted November 1, 2009 at 12:51 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 448

This Week in Notes: Days 37-41

Article posted November 1, 2009 at 12:48 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 32

Hello Families! We enter November with two good months under our belts. Thanks for the work you did with your student. We are really making some good progress with reading comprehension and fluency improving with many students. Math has brought a lot of new concepts and some difficult work. The kids are trying really hard to work with concepts they do not understand. We have a good bunch of peers in our room that help each other every day. I am grateful to have such a caring crew this year. Some new things we need to be working on are our phenology observations at home. Please make sure kids are paying attention to what is happening outdoors and recording this on their phenology sheets (Larry Weber Articles). We will be starting science lab work with variables coming next week and lasting through the rest of the quarter. Speaking of that, the end of the quarter is approaching quickly. All work is due November 20th. Nothing will be accepted from this quarter after November 20th. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, comments or concerns.

Article posted November 1, 2009 at 12:48 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 32

The Week Ahead: Days 32-36

Article posted November 1, 2009 at 12:48 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 30

• November 9th: Happy Birthday Cory!
• November 13th: UMD Weber Music Field Trip
• November 17th: BOLD Theater Performance “Romeo & Juliet”
• November 19th: Happy Birthday Tanesha!
• November 20th: Early Release
• November 20th: End of First Quarter
• November 26-27th: No School-Thanksgiving Break
• November 27th: Happy Birthday Courtney!
• November 28th: Happy Birthday Jamila!
• December 1st: Happy ½ Birthday Keyon (June 1st)

Article posted November 1, 2009 at 12:48 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 30

Article posted October 25, 2009 at 10:18 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 652

This Week in Notes: Days 32-36

Article posted October 25, 2009 at 10:09 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 51

The weeks are flying by. With a lot of kids gone early in the week it was great to see all kids at school Thursday and Friday to end the week. Thanks for doing all you can to help kids stay healthy from setting times for bed and keeping kids drinking water. I will allow water bottles in the classroom as long as the kids are responsible with them and they go home each week for a thorough cleaning.

As you may have noticed I did not send home the mid-term reports as I was working out some scores and it took longer than expected. Thanks for your patience as I plan to get them to you this week. Keep checking the assignment sheet, this newsletter and the behavior reports for up to the week reports.

You should be seeing work come back and forth from school to home. We do a lot of the same things each week for kids’ independent work. I hope you are helping kids observe out in nature as each week is assigned the Larry Weber phenology article to read and complete the back.

Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, comments or concerns.

Article posted October 25, 2009 at 10:09 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 51

The Week Ahead: Days 27-31

Article posted October 25, 2009 at 10:08 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 37

• ASAP: Please return your fundraising sign-up sheets for our Deep Portage Trip so we can place our order
• October 27th: Mid-Term Work Grade Reports Sent Home (due back signed by Wednesday)
• October 27th: BOLD Choice Theater
• October 29th: UMD Fall Family Night

Article posted October 25, 2009 at 10:08 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 37

Article posted October 18, 2009 at 09:48 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1010

This Week in Notes: Days 27-31

Article posted October 18, 2009 at 09:48 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 92

We are just past the middle of the first quarter. I am sending mid-term grade reports for work so you can review, sign and return them back to school. Kids have until the end of the first quarter to turn in all late assignments. I will provide time for them to work on some of their work throughout the day but most late work will need to be caught up at home, in the COMPASS room or another after-school program. I make some extra copies of learning sheets that are missing and they are located in file folders in our classroom. All other assignments need to be finished however they were assigned.

Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, comments or concerns.

Article posted October 18, 2009 at 09:48 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 92

The Week Ahead: Days 23-26

Article posted October 18, 2009 at 09:46 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 57

• ASAP: Please return your fundraising sign-up sheets for our Deep Portage Trip so we can place our order
• October 19th: Mid-Term Work Grade Reports Sent Home (due back signed by Wednesday)
• October 22nd: All School Morning Meeting
• October 23rd: 12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Hawk Ridge Science Trip-Please dress for the weather
• October 27th: BOLD Choice Theater
• October 29th: UMD Fall Family Night

Article posted October 18, 2009 at 09:46 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 57

Article posted October 11, 2009 at 10:12 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 798

This Week in Notes: Days 23-26

Article posted October 11, 2009 at 10:10 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 57

Thanks to all the parents that came to conferences this past week. We still have many of you scheduled for this Tuesday afternoon and early evening. We will keep a close watch on all our goals and see the growth at our next conferences in January. With hard work and effort a lot of our kids will be reaching their goals this year. We have a short, packed week this week. Thursday we will travel to Hawk Ridge for our rescheduled field trip. It looks as though the weather will be cold and possibly wet. It is very important that kids bring many layers of clothes to wear on this trip. They can always take things off that they don’t need. Look for a fundraiser letter for our Deep Portage trip to be coming out this week. It will detail what is expected for your child to go on this exciting adventure in February. Thanks for your continued support at home and for signing and returning behavior reports and assignment sheets each week. Bravo for setting a time each day to read and work on schoolwork. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, comments or concerns.

Article posted October 11, 2009 at 10:10 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 57

The Week Ahead: Days 18-22

Article posted October 11, 2009 at 10:09 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 52

• October 13th: Conferences (4 p.m.-7 p.m.)
• October 15th: Hawk Ridge Field Trip
• October 15th: Early Release
• October 16th: No School-Education MN Break
• October 22nd: All School Morning Meeting
• October 27th: BOLD Choice Theater
• October 29th: UMD Fall Family Night

Article posted October 11, 2009 at 10:09 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 52

Article posted October 4, 2009 at 10:24 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 1068

This Week in Notes: Days 18-22

Article posted October 4, 2009 at 10:23 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 74

What a nice start the kids are having so far! Many kids have their hopes and dreams for the year and are working hard to achieve their goals. We have some tough things to accomplish this year so a little hard work will go a long way. Thanks for all your support you give at home with returning things to school on time, getting a time for your child to read each day, and helping set up a consistent time for him/her to work on any school projects that need completing. Conferences are this week and next. I look forward to meeting you all and talking over my goals for your child. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, comments or concerns.

Article posted October 4, 2009 at 10:23 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 74

The Week Ahead: Days 13-17

Article posted October 4, 2009 at 10:22 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 103

• October 5th: COMPASS program starts
• October 6th: Conferences (4 p.m.-7 p.m.)
• October 8th: Conferences (4 p.m.-7 p.m.)
• October 13th: Conferences (4 p.m.-7 p.m.)
• October 15th: Hawk Ridge Field Trip
• October 15th: Early Release
• October 22nd: All School Morning Meeting
• October 27th: BOLD Choice Theater
• October 29th: UMD Fall Family Night

Article posted October 4, 2009 at 10:22 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 103

Article posted September 27, 2009 at 11:00 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 692

This Week in Notes: Days 13-17

Article posted September 27, 2009 at 10:59 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 63

What a great start to the year we have had in our room! We are continuing to form our community bonds, learn about procedures in the room and around the school and get into our learning groove. Last week we had our first assignments that were graded. Please check your child’s weekly behavior report to see how behavior and assignments were handled throughout the week. Another reminder goes out for assignment sheets and independent reading. This will be a weekly responsibility for all kids in the classroom. Please help your child with their success by asking to see their weekly sheet and providing time for them to read each day. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, comments or concerns.

Article posted September 27, 2009 at 10:59 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 63

The Week Ahead: Days 8-12

Article posted September 27, 2009 at 10:58 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 53

• ASAP: Return all forms to school
• September 28th: Hawk Ridge Field Trip-postponed due to the weather. New date TBA
• September 29th: All School Morning Meeting
• September 30th: Forestry Field Day 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (please dress for the outdoors!)
• October 2nd: Student Picture Day
• October 6th: Conferences (4 p.m.-7 p.m.)
• October 8th: Conferences (4 p.m.-7 p.m.)
• October 13th: Conferences (4 p.m.-7 p.m.)
• October 15th: Early Release
• October 22nd: All School Morning Meeting
• October 27th: BOLD Choice Theater
• October 29th: UMD Fall Family Night

Article posted September 27, 2009 at 10:58 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 53

Article posted September 20, 2009 at 09:01 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 519

This Week in Notes: Days 8-12

Article posted September 20, 2009 at 08:55 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 68

I am so excited to teach your child within our great community of learners. You will receive a newsletter weekly or bi-weekly to update you on happenings in our room and school. You can also get the online version each week on our blog at: monsonclassroom.org.

We are getting close to being done with all the beginning-of-the-year testing and we are on to more community building and a more regular schedule of classes. Please review your child’s behavior report for last week and return it signed as soon as you can. You should also get an assignment sheet each week. Kids need to continue to fill it out throughout the week and bring it home to get signed on Friday. Please remember to check out the “Independent Reading” section. You can initial for the entire week or just the days that your child read at home. Independent reading is an important connection to reading achievement. Thanks for supporting this by initialing this portion of the sheet.

I am always open to new ideas and strategies to do the best I can with each student. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, comments or concerns.

Article posted September 20, 2009 at 08:55 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 68

Important Upcoming Dates and Events

Article posted September 20, 2009 at 08:54 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 77

• ASAP: Return all forms to school
• September 25th: Early Release (Students are dismissed at 1:40 p.m.)
• October 2nd: Student Picture Day
• October 6th: Conferences (4 p.m.-7 p.m.)
• October 8th: Conferences (4 p.m.-7 p.m.)
• October 13th: Conferences (4 p.m.-7 p.m.)
• October 15th: Early Release

Article posted September 20, 2009 at 08:54 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 77

We're Almost Back!

Article posted September 15, 2009 at 07:46 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 333

Hello Bloggers!

We are almost ready to start new blog posts. I will resume regular newsletters this coming weekend. Look for new stories coming to our blog shortly.

Thanks for hanging around and checking things out. See you soon.

-Mr. Monson

Article posted September 15, 2009 at 07:46 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 333

Summer Vacation is Here!

Article posted June 8, 2009 at 01:51 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 6796

Hello Bloggers!

We are enjoying our summer vacation. The blog will be available to all 2008-2009 students until the fall of 2009. We will start school September 10, 2009. Thanks to all participants in our blog world. We'll see you on the Internet in a few months. We are still open for comments on all sections of our blog.

Happy reading and writing!

Peace,

-Mr. Monson

Article posted June 8, 2009 at 01:51 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 6796

Our Last Week of School!

Article posted June 1, 2009 at 03:48 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 668

Below is a list of times and activities for the remainder of the school year.

•June 2nd: 2:00 p.m. Grade 5 Celebration-Nettleton Gym-Families welcome and encouraged to attend!
•June 2nd: 3:00 p.m. Monson Classroom’s Slide Show-Room 301-Families welcome and encouraged to attend!
•June 3rd: 12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Board Game Afternoon-Kids can bring board games to school
•June 3rd: 2:45 p.m.-3:30 p.m.-Floats in the Park-Root beer float celebration with our kindergarten friends
•June 4th: Last Day of School! Field Fun Day! Report cards sent home

Stay tuned to local happenings on our blog throughout the summer at monsonclassroom.org. You can also find a ton of online resources at: delicious.com/monsonclassroom

Your child (and you) may also want to get involved at local races and walks. Information for these can be found at: northlandrunner.com/run. I'll be running Grandma's Marathon again June 20th. Maybe I'll spot you in the crowd. It would be a neat thing to see some of the kids come down and watch the race.

Thanks so much for your involvement over these past nine months. We couldn't do it without you. Please keep the rigor of learning going throughout the summer in preparation for middle school.

Have a safe, healthy and happy summer!

Article posted June 1, 2009 at 03:48 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 668

Article posted May 28, 2009 at 02:36 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 516

•ASAP: Behavior Reports signed and returned.
•ASAP: Last week’s assignment sheet signed and returned.
•May 29th: Social Studies Research Projects, Math 4 Today 32, Pizzazz 32, Larry Weber Article "Blossoming Trees" all due.
•May 29th: Grade 5 St. Paul Trip-8:00AM-7:00PM
•June 2nd: Grade 5 Graduation Ceremony-2:00 p.m.
•June 3rd: Board Game Day-Kids can bring board games to school
June 3rd: Root Beer Floats in the Park with our Kindergarten Friends
•June 4th: Last Day of School! Field Fun Day!

Article posted May 28, 2009 at 02:36 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 516

The Week Ahead: Days 146-150

Article posted May 13, 2009 at 08:06 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1228

•ASAP: Forms should be returned for Morgan Park Jump Start Program (pink or white paper)
•ASAP: Behavior Reports signed and returned.
•ASAP: Last week’s assignment sheet signed and returned.
•ASAP: Sixth Grade Registration Cards (yellow cardstock)
•May 18th: Mr. Monson gone for the day. A guest teacher will be in the room.
•May 19th: Happy Birthday Donzell!
•May 21st: Mile run in P.E.
•May 22th: Fit n’ Fun Run 12:15PM-1:30PM Public Schools Stadium-Kids should wear running clothes and dress for the weather (rescheduled from May 13th).
•May 22nd: Social Studies Research Projects, Math 4 Today 31, Pizzazz 31, Larry Weber Article "Trout Lilies" all due.
•May 25th: Memorial Day-No School
•May 29th: Grade 5 St. Paul Trip-8:00AM-7:00PM
•June 2nd: Grade 5 Graduation Ceremony
•June 4th: Last Day of School! Field Fun Day!

Article posted May 13, 2009 at 08:06 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1228

Article posted May 3, 2009 at 10:54 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1255

The Week in Academics: Days 146-150

Article posted May 3, 2009 at 10:53 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 254

This Week in Notes: Days 146-150

Article posted May 3, 2009 at 10:52 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 303

Hello Families! Sorry I’ve been out of touch with the newsletter over the past month. We have lots of things happening so I thought I better get one out. I missed congratulating all the kids and their hard work during the running club. I hope that all will be able to take a piece of their experience and make it last a lifetime.

Big news! We are able to bring the kids for a whirlwind day in St. Paul, Friday, May 29th. The cost of the trip is all going to be covered by Nettleton School We will visit the Science Museum of Minnesota, the Minnesota History Center and the State Capitol. Kids with good end-of-year responsibility will be allowed to attend the trip. More information will come home in a letter this week or next.

At the end of the week, next year’s Morgan Park kids will be going over there for an orientation. Look for a letter coming home this week with more details. We will also go to Woodland to see Kara Goucher, U.S. Olympic runner and Duluth native. She will be speaking to middle school kids and I asked if we could come over to hear her as well.

Thanks for all you do to help the learning of your child. Please contact me with any concerns or questions.

Article posted May 3, 2009 at 10:52 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 303

Please Support Our Feet Feat

Article posted May 3, 2009 at 10:52 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 268

• May 2nd: Happy Birthday Keeli!
• May 4th: Ms. Stack Orchestra Visit
• May 7th: World Beat to Minneapolis Performance
• May 8th: Morgan Park Orientation-10:30AM-12:30PM-Briong Bathing Suits!
• May 8th: Kara Goucher Presentation-Woodland Middle School-1:45PM-3:00PM-Monson’s Class Only
• May 8th: Last Day for COMPASS
• May 13th: Fit n’ Fun Run
• May 15th: Early Release-1:40PM
• May 19th: Happy Birthday Donzell!
• May 25th: Memorial Day-No School
• May 29th: Grade 5 St. Paul Trip-8:00AM-7:00PM
• June 2nd: Grade 5 Graduation Ceremony
• June 4th: Last Day of School! Field Fun Day!

Article posted May 3, 2009 at 10:52 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 268

We are still here!

Article posted April 28, 2009 at 08:03 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 616

Hello Blog Friends,

We are still around even though our blog has not been updated in several weeks. Keep looking for updated stories and information about our running club.

Be well!

Article posted April 28, 2009 at 08:03 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 616

Spring Break!

Article posted April 5, 2009 at 03:30 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 2441

We are on spring break for the week of April 6-10. See you around the web when we return to school April 13th.

Article posted April 5, 2009 at 03:30 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 2441

Article posted March 29, 2009 at 09:49 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 867

Many of the kids in our grade 5 classroom are involved in the second year of our running club. Our goal is to train and then run/walk the Fitger's 5K (3.1 miles) April 18th here in Duluth(grandmasmarathon.com/races/fitgers5k.php). Kids journal throughout the club keeping track of their diets, screen time (TV, videogames, and computer use), sleep, training/activity and their resting heart rates. Some kids need proper running shoes and I am asking for donations to help buy that equipment. We will get the kids fitted for the shoes in the coming weeks and hopefully get them on their feet before our spring break, which is one week prior to the race. Special thanks go out to the "Duluth Running Company" for graciously providing us a deal on some top-notch shoes and for spending time helping us get things started (duluthrunning.com).

Please do not feel obligated to donate anything! If you wish to make a contribution the levels are below:

Half a Foot: $7.50
One Foot: $15.00
Two Feet: $30

Checks can be made out to "Nettleton Elementary School" with "Room 301 Running Club" in the memo. You can send donations directly to school in interschool mail or at our address: 108 East 6th Street, Duluth 55805. If we get more money than we need for shoes we will buy some good socks for the kids and other things that will help their run be enjoyable and safe.

Thanks so much for your support in any way. Feel free to pass this information on to a runner or anyone else that would be interested.

Article posted March 29, 2009 at 09:49 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 867

The Week Ahead: Days 126-130

Article posted March 29, 2009 at 09:47 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 168

This Week in Academics: Days 126-130

Article posted March 29, 2009 at 09:46 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 159

This Week in Notes: Days 126-130

Article posted March 29, 2009 at 09:46 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 134

Hello Families! We have a winter-like week ahead before we head on our spring break. Take a look at the running schedule for the week. Kids will be tested again on their journals, effort while running/walking, warm-up and cool down exercises and their attitudes. Before we invest any more time and money into runners they need to prove they will stick with the program for the next three week. This is the point in the club where I may need to cut some kids from the club. Please give me a call if you have any questions.

We are starting the fourth quarter of fifth grade and with that comes some important changes. To get the kids prepared for their responsibilities as sixth grade kids all assignments will be due on the due date. No late assignments will be accepted unless they were for make-up work during an excused absence. I am also not making any copies of any homework assignments that are worksheets. Kids will either have to recreate the sheet or take a loss of points.

The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments in Reading will be taken the week we get back from break. Please talk with your child about diet and sleep these days, as the tests are very important. The Math portion will be taken the following week. Check out the important events calendar below. Congratulations to our actors Lah-Mina, Asia, Rachel and Ian as they are continuing to perform in MacBeth over the coming days. If you missed the shows last week you still have a chance this week. Call the office for show times.

Thanks for all you do to help the learning of your child. Please contact me with any concerns or questions.

Article posted March 29, 2009 at 09:46 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 134

Please Support Our Feet Feat!

Article posted March 29, 2009 at 09:45 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 126

• April 1st: Qtr. 3 Report Cards Going Home
• April 4th: Happy Birthday Lah-Mina!
• April 6th-10th: Spring Break-No School
• April 15th & 16th: Reading MCA State Assessments
• April 17th: Early Release
• April 18th: Fitger’s 5K 9AM Sharp!
• April 21st & 22nd: Math MCA State Assessments

Article posted March 29, 2009 at 09:45 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 126

Article posted March 29, 2008 at 12:00 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 452

The Week Ahead: Days 121-125

Article posted March 22, 2009 at 09:42 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 232

This Week in Academics: Days 121-125

Article posted March 22, 2009 at 09:39 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 92

This Week in Notes: Days 121-125

Article posted March 22, 2009 at 09:38 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 105

Hello families! We have a busy week to end the third quarter. We’ll be done with the year before you know it. Report cards for this grading period will come home next Wednesday. I’ll be working on getting some math assessment data as well as reading fluency checks this week. A lot of the kids are making great strides in their math and reading comprehension and fluency. Thanks for any work you do to help this at home.

This week is packed with running club activities, science, Shakespeare and all the usual fun work. Be ready for behavior reports and missing work reports to be coming home Monday. I hope many kids brought back their assignment sheets from the previous week. We are working on completion of our independent reading for our report cards.

Thanks for all you do to help the learning of your child. Please contact me with any concerns or questions.

Article posted March 22, 2009 at 09:38 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 105

The Week Ahead: Days 111-115

Article posted March 22, 2009 at 09:37 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 113

• March 23rd: Happy Birthday Brandon!
• March 24th: Mr. Monson gone half the day at a meeting
• March 24th: Nettleton PTA Meeting-Info on 6th Grade
• March 26th: MacBeth Performance 6:30PM-“Break a leg” Asia, Lah-Mina, Ian and Rachel!
• March 27th: MacBeth Performance 2PM, 6:30PM
• March 27th: End of Third Quarter-ALL WORK IS DUE!
• April 1st: Qtr. 3 Report Cards Going Home
• April 4th: Happy Birthday Lah-Mina!
• April 6th-10th: Spring Break-No School
• April 15th & 16th: Reading MCA State Assessments
• April 17th: Early Release
• April 21st & 22nd: Math MCA State Assessments

Article posted March 22, 2009 at 09:37 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 113

Article posted March 8, 2009 at 07:28 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1218

This Week in Academics: Days 111-115

Article posted March 8, 2009 at 07:28 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 139

This Week in Notes: Days 111-115

Article posted March 8, 2009 at 07:27 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 122

Hello families! We have some great learning planned for your child this week. We kick off our science unit of levers and pulleys on Monday. We will be finishing up loose ends with writing and our blog should be sparkling with all sorts of new writing.

Thanks for remaining an active part in your child’s learning. Ask him/her about their day and check out their assignment sheets each week. Thanks in advance for getting behavior reports back signed and returned. They are a great way to stay in touch with how things are going for behavior and work. We haven’t had one in several weeks so it may be a great time to check in. The quarter ends in a few weeks.

I hope we have a full week but I’m not sure what the weather is going to say about that. Stay tuned for a big storm this week. Don’t fear. I see that 40 degrees is in the forecast for next weekend. Thanks for all you do to help the learning of your child. Please contact me with any concerns or questions.

Article posted March 8, 2009 at 07:27 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 122

The Week Ahead: Days 106-110

Article posted March 8, 2009 at 07:25 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 132

• March 9th: Mr. Monson gone at training for the day-guest teacher is taking over
• March 10th: Green Team Meeting
• March 12th: UMD “Go Green” Family Night 6PM-7:30PM
• March 14th: Family Fun Fest at Grant School
• March 20th: Early Release at 1:40PM
• March 23rd: Happy Birthday Brandon!
• March 27th: End of Third Quarter
• April 4th: Happy Birthday Lah-Mina!
• April 6th-10th: Spring Break-No School
• April 15th & 16th: Reading MCA State Assessments
• April 17th: Early Release
• April 22nd & 23rd: Math MCA State Assessments

Article posted March 8, 2009 at 07:25 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 132

Article posted March 2, 2009 at 10:59 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 865

I did not put out a newsletter over the past couple weeks. Stay posted for news and events next week. Thanks for visiting our blog and reading student sections as they continue to add new material.

Article posted March 2, 2009 at 10:59 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 865

Deep Portage

Article posted March 2, 2009 at 10:58 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 76

We went on our annual Deep Portage Environmental Learning Center trip last week. Watch for entries as kids post their journals and stories from the trip over the upcoming days.

Article posted March 2, 2009 at 10:58 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 76

The Week Ahead: Days 98-102

Article posted February 8, 2009 at 08:37 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1626

This Week in Academics: Days 98-102

Article posted February 8, 2009 at 08:36 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 137

This Week in Notes: Days 98-102

Article posted February 8, 2009 at 08:36 PM GMT-6 • comment (3) • Reads 532

Hello families! We have a great week of learning planned for your child. We will be continuing our civil rights lessons in the book Civil Rights Movement for Kids. There are some powerful lessons from that time in America’s history. Please ask your child questions about what they are learning.

We will have many regular homework assignments before heading on our winter break next week. Candy money is due this coming Friday. Please contact me with any questions or concerns regarding fundraising. Our trip will be February 25th through February 27th. More information will come home in an upcoming letter.

Some of you may have missed meeting with me at conference time. I would still like to talk with you in person or by phone. Please let me know when a good time would be to make a connection.

Article posted February 8, 2009 at 08:36 PM GMT-6 • comment (3) • Reads 532

The Week Ahead: Days 88-92

Article posted February 8, 2009 at 08:35 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 150

• February 10th: Yearbook Picture Day for school groups.
• February 11th: Hundredth Day of School!
• February 12th: Ian’s Birthday!
• February 13th: Apollo’s ½ Birthday! (August 13th)
• February 13th: All Deep Portage Money Due! Please contact me for questions.
• February 13th: St. Scholastic Drumming Concert with Mrs. Monson’s Kindergarten Class at Mitchell Auditorium
• February 13th: Deep Portage Health & Permission Form Due!
• February 16th-20th: Mid-Winter Break-No School
• February 25th-27th: Deep Portage Environmental Learning Center Trip (Money Due 2/23)

Article posted February 8, 2009 at 08:35 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 150

Article posted January 25, 2009 at 05:25 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1284

This Week in Academics: Days 88-92

Article posted January 25, 2009 at 05:25 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 126

This Week in Notes: Days 88-92

Article posted January 25, 2009 at 05:24 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 96

Hello families! We have a wonderful week of learning planned. The kids will be busy this week with some fun projects and usual homework assignments. Thanks in advance for any help getting these back to school completed.

This week is conference week at Nettleton. The conferences are held Tuesday and Thursday but if you cannot attend I can see you at other times. The conferences in our room are partially student lead so attendance by your child is mandatory. We will go over goals for the rest of the year and see what successes we can build from in our short 20 minutes with each other.

Thanks for all you do to help the learning of your child. Please contact me with any concerns or questions. I’ll see you this week at conferences!

Article posted January 25, 2009 at 05:24 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 96

The Week Ahead: Days 76-80

Article posted January 25, 2009 at 05:23 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 93

• January 27th: Zach’s Birthday!
• January 27th: Parent Teacher Conferences
• January 29th: Parent Teacher Conferences
• January 29th: Desmond’s Birthday!
• February 4th: Dyllan’s ½ Birthday! (August 4th)
• February 4th: Mr. Monson gone at computer training
• February 6th: Mr. Monson gone at science training
• February 12th: Ian’s Birthday!
• February 13th: Apollo’s ½ Birthday! (August 13th)
• February 13th: All Deep Portage Money Due!
• February 16th-20th: Mid-Winter Break-No School
• February 25th-27th: Deep Portage Environmental Learning Center Trip (Money Due 2/23)

Article posted January 25, 2009 at 05:23 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 93

Our Classroom Wiki

Article posted January 4, 2009 at 10:29 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 2103

Our Thousands Project Wiki for January is ready for entries. We are asking people what goals or accomplishments they want to attain this year.

Find out more by clicking HERE or on our wiki links to the left.

If you already responded to last year's months your job is done (unless you want to add or change your thoughts). We would appreciate if you could forward our link to others so we could gather entries from a wide range of places. Thanks for making the world smaller for our class!

Article posted January 4, 2009 at 10:29 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 2103

Article posted January 4, 2009 at 10:02 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 109

This Week in Academics: Days 76-80

Article posted January 4, 2009 at 10:01 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 116

This Week in Notes: Days 76-80

Article posted January 4, 2009 at 10:00 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 103

Hello families and welcome to 2009! We have a super week of learning planned. The kids will be getting back into the groove of school with geometry, new phenology observations and some cool stories in reading.

Thanks for all your help with any schoolwork. There are still some kids that need to be doing some catching up. The end of the semester is next week. All work is due at that time and I will base grades accordingly. Conferences are coming up January 27th and January 29th. Look for forms to come home shortly. The conferences in our room are partially student lead so attendance by your child is mandatory.

Thanks for all you do to help the learning of your child. Please contact me with any concerns or questions.

Article posted January 4, 2009 at 10:00 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 103

The Week Ahead: Days 74-75

Article posted January 4, 2009 at 09:59 PM GMT-6 • comment (2) • Reads 543

• January 8th: Asia’s Birthday!
• January 8th: Guest Teacher in Room 301-Mr. Monson at training in Duluth
• January 16th: All Quarter 2 Work is Due
• January 16th: End of Quarter 2/First Semester
• January 22nd: Nikolas’ Birthday!
• January 20th: Harold’s Birthday!
• January 27th: Zach’s Birthday!
• January 27th & 29th: Parent Teacher Conferences
• January 29th: Desmond’s Birthday!
• February 13th: All Deep Portage Money Due!
• February 25th-27th: Deep Portage Environmental Learning Center Trip (Money Due 2/23)

Article posted January 4, 2009 at 09:59 PM GMT-6 • comment (2) • Reads 543

Holiday Greetings!

Article posted December 21, 2008 at 09:51 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 982

Article posted December 21, 2008 at 09:50 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 121

Only two days this week with a lot of fun things planned. We will be doing some snowshoeing on Monday taking advantage of the almost two feet of snow that we have on the ground. Zach is going to bring in something special that will bring me back to the early 1980s and growing up in fifth grade. (Look for pictures on our Flickr page.) On Tuesday we will get together with Mrs. Monson’s kindergarten class to have a little Polar Express fun.

Have a safe and rewarding holiday break with family and friends. We’ll be back in school January 5, 2009.

Article posted December 21, 2008 at 09:50 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 121

The Week Ahead: Days 70-74

Article posted December 15, 2008 at 07:55 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 643

This Week in Academics: Days 70-74

Article posted December 15, 2008 at 07:54 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 139

This Week in Notes: Days 70-74

Article posted December 15, 2008 at 07:53 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 130

Hello families! What a snowy and cold way to start out the week. We have a lot going on during our weather-shortened week together. Our holiday concert will be taking center stage on Thursday but other learning will be happening. We are moving ahead to story 13 in our reading series and are on week 13 in all the other homework areas such as Pizzazz, Math 4 Today and spelling.

Thanks for all your help with any schoolwork. There are still some kids that need to be doing some catching up. Look at their behavior reports to see what things may be missing. It would be nice to go into break with all things done.

Thanks for all you do and for your help returning assignment sheets and behavior reports on time. Please contact me with any concerns or questions.

Article posted December 15, 2008 at 07:53 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 130

The Week Ahead: Days 65-69

Article posted December 15, 2008 at 07:53 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 112

• December 17th: All-School Holiday Program (dress rehearsal)
• December 18th: All-School Holiday Program 9:30AM & 1:30PM
• December 19th: All School Morning Meeting
• December 19th: Early Release-1:40PM
• December 28th: Rachel’s Half Birthday (June 28th)
• December 31st: Sean’s Half Birthday (June 31st)
• December 24th-January 4th: Holiday Break
• January 8th: Asia’s Birthday!
• January 16th: End of Quarter 2
• January 22nd: Nikolas’ Birthday!
• January 20th: Harold’s Birthday!
• January 27th: Zach’s Birthday!
• January 27th & 29th: Parent Teacher Conferences
• January 29th: Desmond’s Birthday!
• February 25th-27th: Deep Portage Environmental Learning Center Trip (Money Due 2/23)

Article posted December 15, 2008 at 07:53 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 112

Article posted December 7, 2008 at 12:33 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 816

This Week in Academics: Days 65-69

Article posted December 7, 2008 at 12:32 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 109

This Week in Notes: Days 65-69

Article posted December 7, 2008 at 12:31 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 102

Hello families! We had a super week of learning last week. I hope you asked your child about their some of their days. This week will be busy but rewarding.

This week will start out without me in the classroom. I will be in Minneapolis at an educational technology conference. Please remind your child about the importance of self-control when there is a guest teacher in the room. We will be testing in a number of subjects this week so the kids will be under a little pressure. We’ll keep things light at other times of the week. Thanks for making sure assignment sheets are coming to and from school each week. We are working on completion of these by all kids, as it will be a requirement in middle school.

Thanks for all you do! Please contact me with any concerns or questions.

Article posted December 7, 2008 at 12:31 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 102

The Week Ahead: Days 60-64

Article posted December 7, 2008 at 12:31 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 94

• December 8th: Darren’s Birthday
• December 8-9th: Mr. Monson will be gone presenting at a Technology Conference in Minneapolis
• December 19th: Early Release 1:40PM
• December 17th: All-School Holiday Program (dress rehearsal)
• December 18th: All-School Holiday Program 9:30AM & 1:30PM
• December 19th: Early Release
• December 28th: Rachel’s Half Birthday (June 28th)
• December 31st: Sean’s Half Birthday (June 31st)
• December 24th-January 4th: Holiday Break-No School
• February 25th-27th: Deep Portage Environmental Learning Center Trip

Article posted December 7, 2008 at 12:31 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 94

Article posted November 30, 2008 at 07:51 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1198

This Week in Academics: Days 60-64

Article posted November 30, 2008 at 07:50 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 108

This Week in Notes: Days 60-64

Article posted November 30, 2008 at 07:49 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 111

Welcome to December Families and Friends! This week we get back to regular learning business with many familiar projects and assignments. Many kids worked hard to get caught up before the break. I hope the same work effort will follow them through this month. Be ready for behavior reports Monday. I hope your child is showing you their assignment sheet to you each week. It is nice to see how many are coming back with independent reading done. At least 100 minutes a week is what I’d like to see happening. This will help build the fluency and comprehension skills necessary for reading success. Thanks for doing your part at home to make this happen. Candy sales are still going strong. I will send home an update of how your child is doing and what they need to still sell soon. Just a reminder that I will be gone next Monday and Tuesday so there will not be a newsletter or behavior report until I get back. Please let me know if you have any questions, comments or concerns. Thanks for all you do!

Article posted November 30, 2008 at 07:49 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 111

The Week Ahead: Days 57-59

Article posted November 30, 2008 at 07:49 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 115

• December 7th: Randi’s Half Birthday (June 7th)
• December 8th: Darren’s Birthday
• December 8-9th: Mr. Monson Presenting at a Technology Conference in Minneapolis
• December 19th: Early Release 1:40PM
• December 17th: All-School Holiday Program (dress rehearsal)
• December 18th: All-School Holiday Program 9:30AM & 1:30PM
• December 19th: Early Release
• December 28th: Rachel’s Half Birthday (June 28th)
• December 31st: Sean’s Half Birthday (June 31st)
• December 24th-January 4th: Holiday Break-No School
• February 25th-27th: Deep Portage Environmental Learning Center Trip

Article posted November 30, 2008 at 07:49 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 115

Article posted November 23, 2008 at 09:14 PM GMT-6 • comment (2) • Reads 1804

This Week in Academics: Days 57-59

Article posted November 23, 2008 at 09:13 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 110

This Week in Notes: Days 57-59

Article posted November 23, 2008 at 09:12 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 99

Hello families and friends! Welcome to our three-day week. I hope all of us spend some time and reflect on the things we can be thankful for in our lives.

The kids will be very thankful this week, as we do not have any regular work assignments. We are using this week to catch up on loose ends. Some kids are involved in a Service-Learning project creating digital videos on how to tie a shoe for Mrs. Monson’s kindergarten room (as well as others). We are doing a lot of writing as well. Check out the blog if you have the chance. There are a lot of good examples of writing starting to emerge. Wednesday we will be spending time with our kindergarten friends and being those great role models.

Enjoy the long weekend. If you have any questions, comments or concerns please give me a call, e-mail or send a message.

Article posted November 23, 2008 at 09:12 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 99

The Week Ahead: Days 52-56

Article posted November 23, 2008 at 09:11 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 77

• November 27th-28th: Thanksgiving Break-No School
• December 7th: Randi’s Half Birthday (June 7th)
• December 8th: Darren’s Birthday
• December 8-9th: Mr. Monson Presenting at a Technology Conference in Minneapolis
• December 19th: Early Release 1:40PM
• December 17th: All-School Holiday Program (dress rehearsal)
• December 18th: All-School Holiday Program 9:30AM & 1:30PM
• December 19th: Early Release
• December 28th: Rachel’s Half Birthday (June 28th)
• December 31st: Sean’s Half Birthday (June 31st)
• December 24th-January 4th: Holiday Break-No School
• February 25th-27th: Deep Portage Environmental Learning Center Trip

Article posted November 23, 2008 at 09:11 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 77

Article posted November 16, 2008 at 06:34 PM GMT-6 • comment (2) • Reads 1664

This Week in Academics: Days 52-56

Article posted November 16, 2008 at 06:33 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 82

This Week in Notes: Days 52-56

Article posted November 16, 2008 at 06:33 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 95

Hello families and friends! Welcome to the cold days of November in our warm classroom. We are having a great start to the second quarter learning a cups community rhythm activity that will rock when we get it down. We’ll let you know when we do. Academically we are starting the second controlled experiment in our variables unit. We are a little behind schedule with this unit but should be involved in it for another two weeks. Kids will be getting a lot of regular assignments this week. We are working on organization of work and thoughts again this week. Problem solving on our own and getting things turned in on time need some improvement but I know we can do it! Thanks for all of your help with any reading and math help at home as well as returning any reports back to school as quickly as you can. In other news, candy sales are going well with many of the kids. Our Deep Portage Trip is February 25-27, 2009.

Article posted November 16, 2008 at 06:33 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 95

The Week Ahead: Days 47-51

Article posted November 16, 2008 at 06:31 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 106

• ASAP: Report Cards signed and returned to school (still missing a few)
• November 27th-28th: Thanksgiving Break-No School
• December 7th: Randi’s Half Birthday (June 7th)
• December 8th: Darren’s Birthday
• December 8-9th: Mr. Monson Presenting at a Technology Conference in Minneapolis
• December 19th: Early Release 1:40PM
• December 17th: All-School Holiday Program (dress rehearsal)
• December 18th: All-School Holiday Program 9:30AM & 1:30PM
• December 24th-January 4th: Holiday Break-No School
• February 25th-27th: Deep Portage Environmental Learning Center Trip

Article posted November 16, 2008 at 06:31 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 106

Article posted November 9, 2008 at 07:11 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 1245

This Week in Academics: Days 47-51

Article posted November 9, 2008 at 07:10 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 98

This Week in Notes: Days 47-51

Article posted November 9, 2008 at 07:10 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 111

Hello families and friends! Welcome to the first week of Quarter 2. As I told the kids, this is a fresh start to set new goals, improve things that need to be improved and keep doing the great successes that so many kids showed over the past 46 days. Thanks for all your support with reading, math and other learning at home as well creating a time and space for homework. There will be no new behavior reports due to report cards coming home this Wednesday. Please contact me if you have any questions regarding any grades. I am always open to new ideas, strategies and thoughts regarding your child. Thanks for staying active in your child’s learning.

Article posted November 9, 2008 at 07:10 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 111

The Week Ahead: Days 42-46

Article posted November 9, 2008 at 07:09 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 121

• November 12th: Monson’s Report Cards Coming Home
• November 13th: Bingo for Books Family Night
• November 14th: Early Release Day
• November 27th-28th: Thanksgiving Break
• December 7th: Randi’s Half Birthday (June 7th)
• December 8-9th: Mr. Monson Presenting at a Technology Conference in Minneapolis
• December 17th: All-School Holiday Program (dress rehearsal)
• December 18th: All-School Holiday Program

Article posted November 9, 2008 at 07:09 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 121

Article posted November 2, 2008 at 08:34 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 1490

This Week in Academics: Days 42-46

Article posted November 2, 2008 at 08:33 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 106

This Week in Notes: Days 42-46

Article posted November 2, 2008 at 08:32 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 129

Hello families and friends! This is our final week of the first quarter of school. All work assigned this quarter is due this Friday. Monday we will send home the first box of candy with kids that signed up to sell for their Deep Portage trip. Please return $40 when the contents of the box are sold. I will also receive money as the candy is sold and keep a running tally. It is a very good learning opportunity for the kids to keep track of their candy, their money and keep the appearance of their candy boxes neat. If you signed up to pay a portion of the trip we will ask you to pay at a later date. You can also pay in installments if you wish. Thanks for all your help with this great trip!

Article posted November 2, 2008 at 08:32 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 129

The Week Ahead: Days 37-41

Article posted November 2, 2008 at 08:26 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 279

• November 3rd: CLIMB Theater Performance
• November 4th: Election Day
• November 6th: COMPASS Family Night
• November 7th: End of First Quarter-All Work Assigned in Quarter 1 is Due!
• November 12th: Monson’s Report Cards Coming Home
• November 13th: Bingo for Books Family Night
• November 14th: Early Release Day
• November 27th-28th: Thanksgiving Break
• December 7th: Randi’s Half Birthday (June 7th)
• December 8-9th: Mr. Monson Presenting at a Technology Conference in Minneapolis

Article posted November 2, 2008 at 08:26 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 279

Article posted October 26, 2008 at 09:38 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1594

This Week in Academics: Days 37-41

Article posted October 26, 2008 at 09:37 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 129

This Week in Notes: Days 37-41

Article posted October 26, 2008 at 09:36 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 277

Hello families and friends! The school year is cruising right along. We are at a busy time of the year with a lot of work and projects due. Please keep up to date with your child’s learning by checking their assignment sheet each week. There are only two weeks left until the end of the quarter. I take all work up until the last day of the first quarter, which is next Friday, November 7th.

Thanks for all your help with math work, making sure kids have books in their hands and including these young learners with all sorts of activities to keep their minds and bodies moving.

Article posted October 26, 2008 at 09:36 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 277

The Week Ahead: Days 33-37

Article posted October 26, 2008 at 09:35 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 111

• October 28th: Mr. Monson gone at computer training
• November 3rd: CLIMB Theater Performance
• November 4th: Election Day-Polls Open
• November 6th: COMPASS Family Night
• November 7th: End of First Quarter-All Late Work Due
• November 12th: Monson’s Report Cards Coming Home
• November 13th: Bingo for Books Family Night
• November 14th: Early Release Day
• November 27th-28th: Thanksgiving Break

Article posted October 26, 2008 at 09:35 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 111

Article posted October 19, 2008 at 04:42 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1539

This Week in Academics: Days 33-37

Article posted October 19, 2008 at 04:38 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 107

This Week in Notes: Days 33-37

Article posted October 19, 2008 at 04:38 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 105

Hello families! We are entering into a great learning time where we have learned our procedures and are getting deeper in academic content. A lot of work will be expected of the kids as we are working our way into November. Thanks for staying on top of homework, assignment sheets, independent reading and behavior reports. These things are an important part to your child’s learning and make such an important difference in their studies.

Thank you to all those parents that came to conferences over the past two weeks. It’s amazing what you all do for our learning community!

Article posted October 19, 2008 at 04:38 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 105

The Week Ahead: Days 23-27

Article posted October 19, 2008 at 04:37 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 106

• October 23rd: Nettleton/Grant Family Night-Dinner provided by Olive Garden
• October 28th: Mr. Monson gone at computer training
• November 3rd: CLIMB Theater Performance
• November 6th: COMPASS Family Night
• November 7th: End of First Quarter-All Late Work Due
• November 12th: Monson’s Report Cards Coming Home
• November 13th: Bingo for Books Family Night
• November 14th: Early Release Day
• November 27th-28th: Thanksgiving Break

Article posted October 19, 2008 at 04:37 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 106

Article posted October 5, 2008 at 08:40 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 3029

This Week in Notes: Days 23-27

Article posted October 5, 2008 at 08:37 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 134

We had a great week of learning last week. Our trips to Hawk Ridge and the play were huge successes. The kids are doing a great job of mentoring their kindergarten friends. This week we will start reading groups that will require the kids to be reading independently. Please check “Assignment Sheets” and behavior reports weekly for any work kids may be doing. Our first guest teacher comes on Friday and next Monday. Please ask your child how he/she did while I’m in Chicago. Thanks for all that you do!

Article posted October 5, 2008 at 08:37 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 134

The Week Ahead: Days 18-22

Article posted October 5, 2008 at 08:36 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 144

• October 6th: Happy Birthday Wendy!
• October 7th: Student Picture Day
• October 7th: Conferences 4PM-9PM
• October 10th-13th: Mr. Monson in Chicago for the Chicago Marathon
• October 15th: Happy Birthday Mac!
• October 16th: Early Release Day
• October 17th: No School-Education Minnesota
• October 23rd: Nettleton/Grant Family Night

Article posted October 5, 2008 at 08:36 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 144

Article posted September 28, 2008 at 09:56 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1624

This Week in Notes: Days 18-22

Article posted September 28, 2008 at 09:32 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 157

It’s hard to believe that 10% of the year is already behind us. This week we have two trips away from school. The first is on Thursday as we head to Hawk Ridge to watch the flight of the raptors through our area. The second is to a play with our kindergarten friends in Mrs. Monson’s room titled The True Story of the Three Little Pigs. Please send $5 to school with your child ASAP for the ticket and bus ride. Thanks in advance for getting your conference slips back to school. We also need behavior reports signed and returned right away as they go home every Monday and talk about your child’s previous week’s behavior and work completion. Thanks for all you do!

Article posted September 28, 2008 at 09:32 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 157

This Week in Notes: Days 13-17

Article posted September 28, 2008 at 09:31 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 159

• September 29th: Happy Birthday Austin!
• October 2nd: Hawk Ridge Field Trip 11:00AM-3:00PM
• October 2nd: Conferences (Monson Only!)
• October 3rd: “True Story of the Three Little Pigs” performance at Teatro Zuccone Theater with Mrs. Monson’s kindergarten kids 11:45AM-2:00PM ($5 will be needed to attend)
• October 6th: Happy Birthday Wendy!
• October 7th: Student Picture Day
• October 7th: Conferences (All School)
• October 10th-13th: Mr. Monson in Chicago for the Chicago Marathon

Article posted September 28, 2008 at 09:31 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 159

Article posted September 21, 2008 at 09:57 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 179

We had another great week of slowly getting into the routine, learning about one another, and building our community.

This week you will get a behavior report from your child. Please review, sign, and send it back to me as soon as you can. Please let me know if you have any questions with anything you see on the report. You will also be getting a fundraising note and a note about our upcoming play performance in which $5 is needed to attend.

On another important note, goal-setting conferences will be coming up soon. I will need to schedule conferences on different nights except for October 7th. I will be heading to Chicago and will not be able to see families October 9th. Please let me know if you cannot make the scheduled evening time because I want to make this first connection with you since it is so important for your child. Look for conference notes coming home this week.

Thanks for staying involved and asking your child what things he/she did in school. Remember that if you have any questions or comments please feel free to call, write, or stop in and talk.

Article posted September 21, 2008 at 09:57 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 179

This Week in Notes: Days 8-12

Article posted September 21, 2008 at 09:56 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 159

• September 24th: 5th Grade 5 Forestry Field Day Field Trip-Hartley Park
• September 26th: Early Release Day-All Duluth Public Schools-Schools release kids two hours early (Nettleton dismisses at 1:40PM)
• September 29th: Happy Birthday Austin!
• October 2nd: Conferences (Monson Only!)
• October 3rd: “True Story of the Three Little Pigs” performance at Teatro Zuccone Theater with Mrs. Monson’s kindergarten kids ($5 will be needed to attend-note coming home soon)
• October 6th: Happy Birthday Wendy!
• October 7th: Student Picture Day
• October 7th: Conferences
• October 10th-13th: Mr. Monson in Chicago

Article posted September 21, 2008 at 09:56 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 159

Article posted September 14, 2008 at 04:50 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 189

What a great first full week of school we had last week. I’ve been impressed by the teamwork and care I have gotten out of our class so far.

This week we will start more rigorous academics while still focusing on procedures and classroom community activities. We will also focus on learning about one another and teamwork. I will start behavior reports this week and will send them home next Monday. Thanks for your patience.

Thanks for staying involved and asking your child what things he/she did in school. Remember that if you have any questions or comments please feel free to call, write, or stop in and talk. You are always invited to attend morning meetings that are each day from 8:50AM to 9:15AM.

Article posted September 14, 2008 at 04:50 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 189

This Week in Notes: Days3-7

Article posted September 14, 2008 at 04:49 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 172

• September 16th: School Patrol Training-2:45PM
• September 18th: Nettleton Fall Festival
• September 24th: 5th Grade 5 Forestry Field Day Field Trip-Hartley Park
• September 26th: Early Release Day-All Duluth Public Schools-Schools release kids two hours early (Nettleton 1:40PM)
• October 3rd: “True Story of the Three Little Pigs” performance at Teatro Zuccone Theater with Mrs. Monson’s kindergarten kids ($5 will be needed to attend-note coming home soon)
• October 7th: Student Picture Day
• October 2nd: Conferences (Monson Only!)
• October 7th: Conferences
• October 10th-13th: Mr. Monson in Chicago for the marathon (gone Friday & Monday from school)

Article posted September 14, 2008 at 04:49 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 172

Article posted September 14, 2008 at 04:45 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 175

It was great to meet, greet and work with our class last week. I can tell that we have future leaders, learners and role models that will benefit our whole school.

This week we will slowly start academics while still focusing on procedures and classroom community activities. We will also focus on learning about one another and teamwork. There are a few assignments due at the end of the week so please check out the weekly calendar.

Thanks for staying involved and asking your child what things they did in school. Remember that if you have any questions or comments please feel free to call, write, or stop in and talk. You are always invited to attend morning meetings that are each day from 8:55 to 9:20.

Article posted September 14, 2008 at 04:45 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 175

Our Week in Review: Days 1-2

Article posted September 1, 2008 at 01:06 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1469

Welcome to a brand new school year. I hope everyone had a nice summer and are ready for a new year of learning. This year I am testing out some new technology. I will embed our Google Calendar each week so you can review things that we will be doing in more detail and look ahead at other events.

This week we will start with community building and learning all the new procedures for grade 5. Please contact me if you have any questions and you are always invited to attend morning meetings that happen daily from 8:55AM-9:15AM.

Check out our calendar below for more information. I will continue to add and improve the information that I include. Stay tuned for details such as spelling lists, vocabulary words and other things to enrich your learning experience.

Article posted September 1, 2008 at 01:06 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1469

Monson Classroom's 2008-2009 Calendar

Article posted September 1, 2008 at 12:47 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 187

Welcome to Summer!

Article posted June 8, 2008 at 09:28 AM GMT-6 • comment (2) • Reads 11330

The blog is taking a few months off. Thanks for all of you who took part in our little world. See you this September with a new bunch of writers!

Article posted June 8, 2008 at 09:28 AM GMT-6 • comment (2) • Reads 11330

The Last Week Ahead: Days 168-171

Article posted June 1, 2008 at 07:19 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1392

Well, we’re just about there. What a ride it has been. It seems like just yesterday this crew was coming into the room for the first time with all sorts of hopes and dreams. Many kids reached hard for those dreams. Some were achieved and others are to be attained another day. That is how life goes.

It’s been a pleasure teaching your child and working with all of you. Thank you for being involved in every way you were. Your help in your child’s education makes a huge difference in their success. Thanks in advance for you continuing that throughout the summer and in middle school. Education is a lifelong endeavor. I hope to never stop learning new things and using that learning for a greater good.

I continue to hold a part in your child’s success beyond my classroom and our school calendar. If there are any future questions you may have please do not hesitate to call, write, e-mail or stop in to talk.

Article posted June 1, 2008 at 07:19 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1392

Grade Five Graduation This Wednesday

Article posted June 1, 2008 at 07:18 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 323

Our grade five graduation celebration will be held this Wednesday at 1:30PM June 4^th. The presentation should last about one hour or so. There will be a short reception following in the cafeteria.

Article posted June 1, 2008 at 07:18 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 323

The Last Week

Article posted June 1, 2008 at 07:17 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 324

We will be doing some end of the year projects. We will finish our work on the blank books we started last week. We will also be filling out a “20 Questions” survey that will be the last thing we do in our room. Kids will have their last chance to add things to their blogs, clean up their writing that is posted and make some last comments to others around the world.

We have a big whiffle ball game scheduled for Tuesday. We will also go to Cascade Park with our kindergarten friends. We hope to finish our book The City of Ember by Thursday. I also hope to involve the kids in some closure to the room with packing away the Pez, boxing things up and cleaning. Most desk things will be taken home Monday in preparation for emptying the room.

Article posted June 1, 2008 at 07:17 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 324

This Summer in Assignments/Projects

Article posted June 1, 2008 at 07:17 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 304

No Assignments will be graded this week. All work was due last Friday. Look for report cards on Thursday. Some things to do over the summer:

· Get and use a Duluth Public Library card.

· Keep adding things to our blog at: http://monsonclassroom.org

· Check out some great websites at: http://del.icio.us/monsonclassroom

· Read the newspaper

· Keep track of the latest about the upcoming presidential election

· Watch the Summer Olympics held in Beijing, China

Article posted June 1, 2008 at 07:17 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 304

2007-2008 Classroom Photos

Article posted June 1, 2008 at 07:17 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 227

All photos from the year will be available to you for viewing at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/monsonclassroom/

Article posted June 1, 2008 at 07:17 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 227

The Week Ahead: Days 159-163

Article posted June 1, 2008 at 07:16 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 225

· June 3^rd: Whiffle Ball Game with Mr. Fresvik

· June 3^rd: Kindergarten Friend “Party in the Park”

· June 4^th: Grade 5 Graduation 1:30PM

· June 5^th: Field Day-Last Day of School!

· June 5^th: 4^th Quarter Report Cards Go Home

· June 6^th: Teacher Work Day

· June 6^th-September 3^rd: Read, write, do some math, keep active, eat healthy, be creative, stay curious, observe nature, limit your screen time, drink water, get outside, stay safe, keep in touch!

· September 4^th: Middle School Begins in Duluth!

Article posted June 1, 2008 at 07:16 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 225

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:07 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 2886

The last full five-day week of elementary school for this crew. Sorry for not communicating with you last week as the communicator and rubrics took a week for vacation.

We had an awesome time at the Fit-N-Fun Run at Public Schools Stadium on Wednesday as well as some good academic learning. We are done with most social studies work except for reviewing countries of the world to give the kids more exposure to places that they will hear in current events around the world.

Other things happening this week are working on polishing up all the writing that we have done this year. Kids will be working on editing past stories on blogs and completing works that are not done. Look at the blog for more updates throughout the next two weeks.

Remember that if you have any questions or comments please feel free to call, write, or stop in and talk. You are always invited to attend morning meetings that are each day from 8:55 to 9:20.

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:07 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 2886

Grade Five Memory Books

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:06 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 250

We will start our grade five blank books soon. Have your child think about all the things that they have done throughout this year and years past in order to include it in their books. We will send books home the last day of the year.

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:06 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 250

The Last Three Weeks

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:06 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 251

Time is getting short in this waning school year but we still have unfinished business and lots of fun in store. Thanks for you and your child treating these last weeks just as important as the first three weeks. We still expect kids at school on time, work completed on time, quality sleep gotten in the evenings and positive attitudes showing up. This will help everyone have successful learning and a great wind-down to such a super year. Thanks for what you do to make this possible.

There are still a few loose ends to tie up around the school. Please ask your child if they have turned in all candy money from fundraising, gotten their report cards in from last quarter, returned books from the Nettleton Library and have any late work caught up. All work it due to Mr. Monson by May 30th.

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:06 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 251

Growing Up Video & Discussion

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:06 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 215

We will have a video and short discussion Tuesday afternoon about how our bodies are changing these upcoming years. Our school nurse, Karen Wirth has arranged our classes to meet this Tuesday from 2:30PM to 3:30PM. Boys will meet in Mr. Schmidt’s room along with Mr. Monson and Mr. Olson. The girls will meet with Ms. Wirth and Ms. Nelson. Refer to the letter sent last week for more information. If you have any questions please feel welcome to call or stop in.

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:06 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 215

Wednesday Night at the Races Information and Schedule

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:05 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 247

(from the Grandma’s Marathon Website)
Wednesday Night at the Races has become a summer tradition for hundreds of families throughout the Northland. This youth race series is held on six consecutive Wednesday evenings in July and August, and draws an average of 400 children per night.
2008 Dates/Locations:
• July 23: Public Schools Stadium (Denfeld High School) 
• July 30: Bayfront Festival Park (Downtown Duluth Waterfront) 
• August 6: Duluth Central High School Track (800 E. Central Entrance) 
• August 13: Hermantown High School Track (4335 Hawk Cir. Dr.) 
• August 20: Central Park - Superior (Belknap St., right on E. 7th St. - down 4 blocks) 
• August 29: Park Point - Followed by a Year-End Picnic Celebration
Registration: Registration is from 5:00 p.m. to 5:50 p.m. each evening of the series. These races are free.
Start Time: The youth races will start promptly at 6:00 p.m. beginning with the youngest age group and ending with the oldest children.
Age Groups and Distance: Children will be split up into groups according to their age. Age groups and distances* are as follows: 4 & Under – ¼ mile 5 & 6 years old – ¼ mile 7 & 8 years old – ½ mile 9 & 10 years old – ½ mile 11 & 12 years old – 1 mile 13 & 14 years old – 1 mile *Distances may be shortened due to hot weather conditions
Prizes: Everyone’s a champion at this event! Each week every child will receive a ribbon upon completing their race, and trophies will be awarded to the top boy and girl in each age group.
Call the Grandma's Marathon office at (218) 727-0947 for more information.

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:05 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 247

Grade Five Graduation Celebration Time Change

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:05 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 208

Our grade five graduation celebration has changed its time from 6:00PM to 1:30PM June 4th. We apologize for the change in times but found it necessary to not conflict with high school graduations around town. Thanks in advance for understanding.

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:05 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 208

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:05 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 198

Some of our weekly assignments are listed below. Please check your child’s assignment sheet for detailed lessons and assignments from the week. The date due is in parenthesis:
• 5/12-5/16 Behavior Reports (5/20)
• 5/12-5/16 Assignment Sheet (5/19)
• Phenology Reading Assignment (5/23)
• Spelling Week #29 Assignment (5/23)
• Math 4 Today 29 or Week by Week 29 (5/23)
• Pizzazz 29 (5/23)
• Asia Maps (5/21)
• Europe Maps (5/23)
• Scholastic Testing (5/21-5/22)

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:05 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 198

The Week Ahead: Days 149-153

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:04 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 170

• May 20th: Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Renegade Theater-6:30PM FREE!
• May 23rd: Last Day of COMPASS
• May 26th: Memorial Day-No School
• May 30th: All School Morning Meeting 8:50AM
• June 4th: Grade 5 Graduation-Nettleton Gym-1:30PM (Note Time Change!)
• June 5th: Field Day-Last Day of School!
• June 5th: 4th Quarter Report Cards Go Home
• June 6th: Teacher in rooms cleaning up
• June 6th-September 3rd: Read, write, do some math, keep active, eat healthy, be creative, stay curious, observe nature, limit your screen time, drink water, get outside, stay safe, keep in touch!
• September 4th: Middle School Begins in Duluth!

Article posted May 18, 2008 at 11:04 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 170

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:16 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 2007

Welcome to a full week of learning and activities! There is a ton of things happening this week so be sure to check out the rest of the newsletter. We have MCA science testing Monday afternoon, a late start on Wednesday and the St. Paul field trip to those students that are caught up with work and have been positive leaders around the school.

Remember that if you have any questions or comments please feel free to call, write, or stop in and talk. You are always invited to attend morning meetings that are each day from 8:55 to 9:20.

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:16 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 2007

MCA Science Testing Monday!

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:16 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 201

We have MCA science testing Monday afternoon. All tests are taken on the computer. Kids will spend most of the afternoon taking the test. Thanks for the support you give for success with all assessments the kids need to do throughout the year.

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:16 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 201

Late Start This Wednesday!

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:15 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 203

We have a late start to school this Wednesday to allow for teacher and school planning. Please remember that bus and school bell schedules shift ahead two hours from their regular time. Kids are expected to be at school by 10:50AM.

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:15 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 203

St. Paul Field Trip Notes and Attendance

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:15 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 199

The field trip permission note and the tan Minnesota Science Museum waiver need to be completed and returned as soon as possible. I still have permission slips to hand out to several students in our room. Kids must be caught up with most of their late work and have had positive behavior choices over the past month. Look at the following article for more information. Please contact me if you have any questions or comments.

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:15 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 199

St. Paul Trip May 8th and 9th (Repeat Article)

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:14 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 214

Students that are invited will attend the overnight field trip next Thursday and Friday, May 8th and 9th. To be eligible the students needed to have positive behavior rubric scores (lower than 3) over the past month and be caught up with their work. I will contact you personally if you child will not be attending the trip. They are still expected to come to school those two days and will attend a partner room doing work that I provide.

Please review and help kids organize the list of things that need to come with them on the journey. A brief timeline of the trip is below:

Thursday, May 8th

• 8AM SHARP!-Busses leave for St. Paul-students should arrive at 7:30AM
• Arrive for the state capitol tour at 10:30AM
• Go to Como Zoo at 12:00 to eat lunch and have a tour
• Head to the Science Museum of Minnesota at 4:00PM, tour the museum and stay for all the night’s programming, IMAX movie and sleeping with the dinosaurs

Friday, May 9th

• 9:45AM Check out of museum after eating breakfast
• 10:00AM Tour the Minnesota Historical Center
• 12:15PM Load busses for the return to Duluth after eating lunch
• Return to Duluth will be approximately 3:00PM

The neat thing about this trip is that everything is paid for. The school or the museums will provide food. You may send along some spending money for gift shops, however. We still need families who have not turned in candy fundraiser money to do so. Thanks for all the work that was done by so many of you for this great experience!

Please feel free to contact me with any questions.

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:14 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 214

Important Upcoming Dates and Events

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:13 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 167

Some of our weekly assignments are listed below. Please check your child’s assignment sheet for detailed lessons and assignments from the week. The date due is in parenthesis:
• 4/28-5/2 Behavior Reports (5/6)
• 4/28-5/2 Assignment Sheet (5/6)
• Phenology Reading Assignment (5/7)
• New Literature Circle Assignment and Reading (5/6)
• Spelling Week #27 Assignment (5/7)
• No New Math 4 Today or Week by Week
• No New Pizzazz

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:13 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 167

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:13 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 170

• May 4th: Happy Birthday Tyler!
• May 5th: Grade 5 Science MCA testing-1:15PM-3:15PM
• May 7th : Late Start-School starts at 10:50AM
• May 7th: All field trip notes due to Mr. Monson
• May 7th: PTA Meeting in Nettleton Library with Dr. Dixon-6PM
• May 9th: Grade 5 Trip To Hartley Cancelled
• May 9th and 10th: Grade 5 St. Paul Trip
• May 11th: Happy Mother’s Day!
• May 12th: Happy Birthday Faith!
• May 14th: Happy Birthday Elizabeth!
• May 14th: Duluth Children’s Fit n Fun Run at PSS-All Grade 5 Kids Participating-More info coming soon!
• May 15th: Nettleton Theater Performance-Midsummer Nights Dream
• May 26th: Memorial Day-No School
• June 4th: Grade 5 Graduation-Nettleton Gym-6PM
• June 5th: Field Day-Last Day of School!

Article posted May 4, 2008 at 08:13 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 170

The Week Ahead: Days 144-148

Article posted April 27, 2008 at 11:15 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1162

The last week of April is here as the remnants of snow finally melt. We have a full week of learning in store for us. By the time this comes home we will have gone to the Depot to watch a children’s performance of Fidgety Fairy Tales dealing with mental health and wellness. We also have the Duluth Symphony’s Woodwind Ensemble coming to visit us on Wednesday.

We will practice taking science MCA tests on the computer during media lab on Tuesday. Friday we get a fire safety presentation by the local fire department. On top of that we will work on some new math strategies, do regular, weekly assignments in spelling and reading and study more about water quality in science.

Remember that if you have any questions or comments please feel free to call, write, or stop in and talk. You are always invited to attend morning meetings that are each day from 8:55 to 9:20.

Article posted April 27, 2008 at 11:15 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 1162

IMPORTANT: St. Paul Trip May 8th and 9th!

Article posted April 27, 2008 at 11:14 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 235

We have changed the dates to the St. Paul trip once more. Students that are invited will attend the overnight field trip next Thursday and Friday, May 8th and 9th. To be eligible the students needed to have positive behavior rubric scores (lower than 3) over the past month and be caught up with their work. I will contact you personally if you child will not be attending the trip. They are still expected to come to school those two days and will attend a partner room doing work that I provide.

A permission form will come home this week detailing the trip and the items that need to come with them on the journey. A brief timeline of the trip is below:

Thursday, May 8th

• 8AM SHARP!-Busses leave for St. Paul-students should arrive at 7:30AM
• Arrive for the state capitol tour at 10:30AM
• Go to Como Zoo at 12:00 to eat lunch and have a tour
• Head to the Science Museum of Minnesota at 4:00PM, tour the museum and stay for all the night’s programming, IMAX movie and sleeping with the dinosaurs

Friday, May 9th

• 9:45AM Check out of museum after eating breakfast
• 10:00AM Tour the Minnesota Historical Center
• 12:15PM Load busses for the return to Duluth after eating lunch
• Return to Duluth will be approximately 3:00PM

The neat thing about this trip is that everything is paid for. The school or the museums will provide food. You may send along some spending money for gift shops, however. We still need families who have not turned in candy fundraiser money to do so. Thanks for all the work that was done by so many of you for this great experience!

Please feel free to contact me with any questions. There will be a detailed list of items to bring along with a permission form coming home this week. Please return this form as soon as possible.

Article posted April 27, 2008 at 11:14 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 235

Article posted April 27, 2008 at 11:14 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 243

Some of our weekly assignments are listed below. Please check your child’s assignment sheet for detailed lessons and assignments from the week. The date due is in parenthesis:
• 4/21-4/25 Behavior Reports [coming out Tuesday or Wednesday] (5/2)
• 4/21-4/25 Assignment Sheet (4/28)
• Phenology Reading Assignment (5/2)
• New Literature Circle Assignment and Reading (4/29)
• Spelling Week #26 Assignment (5/2)
• Math 4 Today #26 or Week By Week #26 (5/2)
• Pizzazz Math #26 (5/2)

Article posted April 27, 2008 at 11:14 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 243

The Week Ahead: Days 139-143

Article posted April 27, 2008 at 11:13 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 208

• April 28th: Fidgety Fairy Tales Theater Performance-Duluth Depot 11AM
• April 29th: Open House at Woodland for Upcoming 6th Grade Kids-6:30PM-7:30PM
• May 2nd: Math Masters Competition-Good luck Blake and Shaw!
• May 4th: Happy Birthday Tyler!
• May 5th: Grade 5 Science MCA testing-1:15PM-3:15PM
• May 7th : Late Start-School starts at 10:50AM
• May 7th: PTA Meeting in Nettleton Library-6PM
• May 9th: Grade 5 Trip To Hartley Cancelled
• May 9th and 10th: Grade 5 St. Paul Trip (note another date change)
• May 12th: Happy Birthday Faith!
• May 14th: Happy Birthday Elizabeth!
• May 14th: Duluth Children’s Fit n Fun Run at PSS-All Grade 5 Kids Participating-More info coming soon!
• May 15th: Nettleton Theater Performance-Midsummer Nights Dream
• May 23rd: Mr. Monson Gone Backpacking!
• May 26th: Memorial Day-No School
• June 4th: Grade 5 Graduation-Nettleton Gym-6PM
• June 5th: Field Day-Last Day of School!

Article posted April 27, 2008 at 11:13 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 208

Article posted April 20, 2008 at 09:32 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 219

The Week Ahead:
Days 139-143
Welcome to the last week of MCA testing and the last full week of April. We had successful testing last week with many kids coming to school, getting good rest and eating brain food.

We have a great week of learning as well. Kids will get some usual assignments and we will be doing some more ground water study in science.

Remember that if you have any questions or comments please feel free to call, write, or stop in and talk. You are always invited to attend morning meetings that are each day from 8:55 to 9:20.

Article posted April 20, 2008 at 09:32 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 219

More MCA Testing This Week!

Article posted April 20, 2008 at 09:31 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 242

The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments are given statewide again this week. Our testing schedule will be this Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:30-11:00 and from 1:30-3:00. Sleep, water and food are important things for good brainwork!

Article posted April 20, 2008 at 09:31 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 242

Room 301 Running Co. Recap

Article posted April 20, 2008 at 09:30 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 227

What a great job the kids did during the running club. Most of the kids were able to put a finale on the club at the Fitger’s 5K this past Saturday. All kids crossed the finish line during the cold and drizzly day. There was a record number of runners in the race this year with almost 1,300 finishers. There were 40 kids running that were under twelve years old. We were eight of them! Way to go kids! Keep up the healthy habits with a balanced diet, water consumption, watching your screen time, making sure you get enough sleep and staying active.

Many thanks go out to our great supporters with donations of time and money. A special thanks go out to Mrs. Heilig, Mrs. Monson, Mrs. Jasperson, Ms. Pierson, Ms. Upton, Mrs. Englund, Ms. Haugen, Mrs. Beaudry, Mrs. McDonald and Tasia for helping out before, during, and after the race Saturday. We also had great support of Nettleton staff along the course.

Article posted April 20, 2008 at 09:30 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 227

Article posted April 20, 2008 at 09:29 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 217

Some of our weekly assignments are listed below. Please check your child’s assignment sheet for detailed lessons and assignments from the week. The date due is in parenthesis:
• 4/14-4/18 Behavior Reports (4/22)
• 4/14-4/18 Assignment Sheet (4/21)
• Phenology Reading Assignment (4/25)
• No New Literature Circle Assignment or Meeting
• Spelling Week #25 Assignment (4/22)
• Math 4 Today #25 or Week By Week #25 (4/25)
• Pizzazz Math #25 (4/25)

Article posted April 20, 2008 at 09:29 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 217

The Week Ahead: Days 134-138

Article posted April 20, 2008 at 09:29 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 230

• April 22nd: MCA Math Testing
• April 23rd: MCA Math Testing
• April 24th: Earth Day
• April 24th: Family Night-Earth Day Celebration-Catered by the Olive Garden
• April 28th: Grade 5 Science MCA testing-1:15PM-3:15PM
• April 29th: Open House at Woodland for Upcoming 6th Grade Kids-6:30PM-7:30PM
• April 30th: Late Start-School starts at 10:50AM
• May 4th: Happy Birthday Tyler!
• May 9th: Grade 5 Trip To Hartley
• May 10th and 11th: Grade 5 St. Paul Trip (note date change)
• May 12th: Happy Birthday Faith!
• May 14th: Happy Birthday Elizabeth!
• May 15th: Nettleton Theater Performance-Midsummer Nights Dream

Article posted April 20, 2008 at 09:29 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 230

Article posted April 14, 2008 at 10:44 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 223

Many kids were rested after our spring break (seemed like winter around here to me!). It’s nice to get back into the groove and get rockin’ for the last seven weeks of school. This week and next we have our important MCA testing. Many of us will be doing our last week of training for the Fitger’s 5K on Saturday. The race starts at 9:00AM if you want to come down to support fellow classmates.

Remember that if you have any questions or comments please feel free to call, write, or stop in and talk. You are always invited to attend morning meetings that are each day from 8:55 to 9:20.

Article posted April 14, 2008 at 10:44 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 223

MCA Testing This Week!

Article posted April 14, 2008 at 10:43 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 475

The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments are given statewide this week and next. Our testing schedule is as follows: Reading-This Wednesday and Thursday (4/16-4/17) and Math next Tuesday and Wednesday (4/23-4/24). All days we will be testing from 9:30-11:00 and from 1:30-3:00. Sleep, water and food are important things for good brainwork!

Article posted April 14, 2008 at 10:43 PM GMT-6 • comment (1) • Reads 475

Article posted April 14, 2008 at 10:43 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 206

We are at race week! Look for the other note for more information about meeting place, time and other important race-day information.
❑ Tuesday: Run 30 minutes in gym at 3:00PM
❑ Wednesday: Run 30 minutes in gym at 3:00PM
❑ Thursday: Run 30 minutes in gym at 3:00PM
❑ Saturday-Fitger’s 5K-9:00AM! Meet at the Portland Malt Shop at 8:15AM to get your race bib and other information.

Article posted April 14, 2008 at 10:43 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 206

Article posted April 14, 2008 at 10:43 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 195

Some of our weekly assignments are listed below. Please check your child’s assignment sheet for detailed lessons and assignments from the week. The date due is in parenthesis:
• No Behavior Reports This Week!
• 3/31-4/4 Assignment Sheet (4/14)
• Phenology Reading Assignment (4/18)
• Lit Circle Meeting 20 Reading and Job Sheet (4/15)
• Spelling Week #24 Assignment (4/18)
• Math 4 Today #24 or Week By Week #24 (4/18)
• Pizzazz Math #24 (4/18)

Article posted April 14, 2008 at 10:43 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 195

Extra Brain Credit:

Article posted April 14, 2008 at 10:42 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 180

Here is an extra thing to do if you want to expand your mind:
• Listen to John Latimer’s Phenology Report on KAXE (www.kaxe.org/) or 91.7FM

Article posted April 14, 2008 at 10:42 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 180

The Week Ahead: April 7-11

Article posted April 14, 2008 at 10:42 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 195

• April 16th: MCA Reading Testing
• April 17th: MCA Reading Testing
• April 17th; PTA Meeting (Dr. Dixon, school superintendent will attend)
• April 19th: Fitger’s 5K Race for Room 301 Running Company-9AM Race Starts!
• April 22nd: MCA Math Testing
• April 23rd: MCA Math Testing
• April 24th: Earth Day
• April 24th: Family Night-Earth Day Celebration
• April 28th: Grade 5 Science MCA testing-1:15PM-3:15PM
• April 29th: Open House at Woodland for Upcoming 6th Grade Kids-6:30PM-7:30PM
• April 30th: Late Start-School starts at 10:50AM
• May 4th: Happy Birthday Tyler!
• May 9th: Grade 5 Trip To Hartley
• May 12th: Happy Birthday Faith!
• May 14th: Happy Birthday Elizabeth!
• May 15th: Nettleton Theater Performance-Midsummer Nights Dream

Article posted April 14, 2008 at 10:42 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 195

Article posted April 8, 2008 at 09:37 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 217

We're off for spring break during this week. More writing and classroom information will be posted next week. Kids should be prepared to take the MCA tests in reading April 16th and 17th. More information coming soon. Have a safe, healthy and happy week.

Article posted April 8, 2008 at 09:37 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 217

The Week Ahead: Days 129-133

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:28 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 203

This is the first week of the fourth quarter and the last week before break. We have a fun week ahead with a visit to Ordean with Mrs. Monson’s kindergarten class. We also have a guest-writing teacher coming in to teach writing strategies and poetry.

Thanks for all your help with responsibilities at home. If you noticed, a behavior rubric did not come out last week. I apologize for any confusion this may have caused. Look for behavior rubrics this Monday. We are really working on calm control in the room. There have been some recent problems with energy-control that we are working on. Thanks for talking with your child about anything that may show up on their weekly report.

Remember that if you have any questions or comments please feel free to call, write, or stop in and talk. You are always invited to attend morning meetings that are each day from 8:55 to 9:20.

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:28 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 203

Report Cards & First Week of the Fourth Quarter

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:27 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 215

Wow! We start the last quarter of elementary school for your child! Report cards for the third quarter will come out this Wednesday. Please review all information and get back to me if you have any questions or comments. Thanks in advance for any support you give your student in the coming months.

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:27 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 215

Guest Writing Teacher

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:27 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 226

Cal Benson (a retired Duluth Public School teacher) will be here Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday to teach writing and poetry to our class. We hope to put together a great selection of poetry to publish. Watch our blog for more updates and additions.

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:27 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 226

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:26 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 215

We are down to three weeks before the race. It is time to start bringing some shorts to change into!
❑ Tuesday: Run 25 minutes in gym at 3:00PM
❑ Wednesday: Run 25 minutes in gym at 3:00PM
❑ Thursday: Run 25 minutes in gym at 3:00PM
❑ Some additional running can be done over the weekend with adult supervision.

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:26 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 215

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:26 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 210

Some of our weekly assignments are listed below. Please check your child’s assignment sheet for detailed lessons and assignments from the week. The date due is in parenthesis:
• 3/24-3/28 Behavior Rubric (4/1)
• 3/24-3/28 Assignment Sheet (3/31)
• Phenology Reading Assignment (4/4)
• Lit Circle Meeting 19 Reading and Job Sheet (4/1)
• Spelling Week #23 Assignment (4/4)
• Math 4 Today #23 or Week By Week #23 (4/4)
• Pizzazz Math #23 (4/4)

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:26 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 210

Extra Brain Credit:

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:26 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 203

Below is an extra thing to do if you want to expand your mind:
• Read some Dr. Seuss books in preparation of our visit to the musical April 3rd.

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:26 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 203

The Week Ahead: Days 124-128

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:25 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 206

• April 2nd: Permission and $3 due for the musical
• April 3rd: Happy Birthday Ryk!
• April 3rd: Seussical the Musical at Ordean
• April 7th-11th: Spring Break-No School
• April 9th: Happy Birthday Keaton!
• April 16th: MCA Reading Testing
• April 17th: MCA Reading Testing
• April 19th: Fitgers 5K Race for Room 301 Running Company
• April 22nd: MCA Math Testing
• April 23rd: MCA Math Testing

Article posted March 30, 2008 at 11:25 AM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 206

Article posted March 23, 2008 at 11:09 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 212

Another busy week took place last week. We are winding down the third quarter with some good learning and community time these next five days.

I am very sad to announce that Mrs. Chartier passed away peacefully on Saturday. We will all miss her at Nettleton and all the ways she brought joy and learning to our lives in and outside of her classroom. Her visitation is Tuesday from 5PM-7PM at the Dougherty Funeral Home and her funeral will be on Wednesday at 11AM at St Benedict’s Catholic Church. I will be gone that day to attend the service as will many Nettleton teachers and staff. We will have school that day as usual with guest teachers and other accommodations made to ensure a successful day of learning. Although this is such a terribly sad moment at Nettleton, it has allowed our class and school to talk about life and death and learn from each other’s experiences. If your child is in need of someone to talk to about this please let me know.

Remember that if you have any questions or comments please feel free to call, write, or stop in and talk. You are always invited to attend morning meetings that are each day from 8:55 to 9:20.

Article posted March 23, 2008 at 11:09 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 212

Last Week of the Third Quarter

Article posted March 23, 2008 at 11:07 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 208

There is one week left in this third quarter. No third quarter work will be accepted past March 28th. Report cards will come home the following week. We will offer additional work times throughout the week. Thanks for all of your support you give your student.

Article posted March 23, 2008 at 11:07 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 208

Article posted March 23, 2008 at 11:07 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 216

It may be time to start bringing some shorts to change into!

❑ Tuesday: Run 20 minutes in gym at 3:15PM
❑ Running on own due to Mr. Monson gone for the day
❑ Thursday: Run 20 minutes in gym at 3:15PM
❑ Some additional running can be done over the weekend with adult supervision.

Article posted March 23, 2008 at 11:07 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 216

Article posted March 23, 2008 at 11:07 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 216

Some of our weekly assignments are listed below. Please check your child’s assignment sheet for detailed lessons and assignments from the week. The date due is in parenthesis:

• 3/17-3/21 Behavior Rubric (3/25)
• 3/17-3/21 Assignment Sheet (3/24)
• “Larry Weber 5, 5, 5 +” Phenology Reading Assignment (3/28)
• Lit Circle Meeting 18 Reading and Job Sheet (3/25)
• No New Spelling Assignment
• All Late Writing on Blog by Friday
• No New Math 4 Today or Week By Week
• Pizzazz Math Through #22 (Overdue)

Article posted March 23, 2008 at 11:07 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 216

Extra Brain Credit:

Article posted March 23, 2008 at 11:06 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 215

Below is an extra thing to do if you want to expand your mind:

• Write a letter to someone that you haven’t talked to in awhile.

Article posted March 23, 2008 at 11:06 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 215

The Week Ahead:Days 119-123

Article posted March 23, 2008 at 11:06 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 206

I• March 26th: Mr. Monson Gone at Funeral
• March 28th: Happy Birthday Shaw!
• March 28th: End of Third Quarter
• April 3rd: Happy Birthday Ryk!
• April 3rd: Seussical the Musical at Ordean-Monson Grade 5 and Kindergarten Classrooms only-12:30PM-1:45PM
• April 7th-11th: Spring Break-No School
• April 9th: Happy Birthday Keaton!
• April 19th: Fitgers 5K Race for Room 301 Running Company

Article posted March 23, 2008 at 11:06 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 206

Article posted March 16, 2008 at 10:04 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 213

We made it through a busy week last week. Many assignments got an extension due to several things that went on last week. Most are due Monday or have been extended to Friday.

We have a great week ahead of us. The Peace Concert will be held at St. Scholastica this Tuesday. If kids have not returned a permission slip they will be staying back at school while the others go to the dress rehearsal.

There are only two weeks left in this third quarter. No third quarter work will be accepted past March 28th. Report cards will come home the following week. Thanks for all of your support you give your student. This is such a team effort we are in!

We are still in need of some communication from some homes. Thanks for all of you doing your best to get behavior rubrics, assignment sheets and independent reading forms filled out and returned to school.

Remember that if you have any questions or comments please feel free to call, write, or stop in and talk. You are always invited to attend morning meetings that are each day from 8:55 to 9:20.

Article posted March 16, 2008 at 10:04 PM GMT-6 • comment • Reads 213