May 17-May 31

Hello Families,
Our second grade year is almost complete. As we tie loose ends up, I am always amazed how truly far these 7 and 8 year olds come from September to June- it is truly remarkable. And yet just when we are in the groove of teaching and learning as a community, June arrives and they leave my room as third graders. (Then I get to start ALL over in September- haha) How quickly I forget and take for granted the independence that these kids have built throughout the year. I will truly miss each and everyone of my kiddos! Here are some important happenings in the classroom:
MAP Testing: MAP testing was a great success! I am SO proud of every student. Their effort and dedication to the test remarkable. In our 60 minute Reading period, only 5 students had finished when time was up- whereas the previous sessions only 1-2 had NOT finished at the end of 60 minutes. So our entire class actually went back for a 2nd session of reading to finish. The kids really focused and were close readers. I am excited to be able to share all the scores with you formally in the next coming weeks!
Human Growth and Development Lesson: Here is the standard lesson explanation from the district:

Second grade teachers will present the district's Human Growth and Development curriculum on May 24. This lesson includes vocabulary instruction related to male and female body parts. Boys and girls will be separated during this teaching. Curriculum materials are available to review at our school library. the public library and at the Central Administrative offices. If you have any further questions about the content or the opt-out process, please contact your child's classroom teacher.

Spelling- we have finished our formal instruction of spelling for the year! There will be no more tests or packets for homework. We will continue to learn about possessives and practice word work skills in class through the end of the year.
Village Hall Field Trip: Our walking field trip to Village Hall is the day after Memorial Day- Tuesday, May 28. Please send your child in walking shoes.  
End of the Year:
Surprise Reader: If you have not had a chance to be a Surprise Reader in our classroom this year, please consider coming any day of the week Mon-Thurs. at 12:00 to read a book to the class. I would LOVE for all kids to have a family member read to us this year. If 12:00 is not a good time, I am flexible on the time. Thank you!
Summer Birthdays: If your child has a summer birthday, please feel free to sen din a birthday treat anytime between now and the end of the year. I know how hard it is for summer birthdays, feeling left out on the school birthday traditions. :)