Books About Moms

Happy May! Such a busy month with lots of activities planned in school and at home. One of the most special days, Mother's Day, is celebrated on May tenth.
There are many thoughtful ways to remember and honor mothers. Kind acts, cards and flowers are gestures moms appreciate. Another great way to celebrate Mother's Day is to read a book about mothers. Below is a link to a list of books that are about mothers and the special place they hold in our hearts. Some of these books are in languages other than English. Whether you borrow these books from the library or purchase them, I hope that you will enjoy sharing them with your families.

http://www.colorincolorado.org/read/forkids/mothers/

Parents/ guardians have many questions about what they should do to help their children acquire another language. Is it okay to speak in their native language? What about reading and writing in their native language? Proficiency in more than one language is an advantage that is enriching and beneficial. Please click on the link below to read about some frequently asked questions that parents/ guardians have regarding second language acquisition:
   http://www.pbs.org/parents/readinglanguage/articles/multifamilies/talking.html

Help With Acronyms

As you head into another round of parent conferences, do you wonder about the meanings of several terms used by educators? Many acronyms are used by educators and sometimes it's difficult to know what they mean. For example, ESL stands for  English as a Second Language, ELL refers to English Language Learners and LEP means Limited English Proficient. Be sure to ask teachers what the acronyms stand for if you are unsure of what they mean. The links below may be help you to understand some frequently used acronyms and terms:

http://harrisonburg.k12.va.us/HarrisonburgCitySchools/media/images/Documents/Instruction/ESL/LEP%20101/Common-Acronyms.pdf

http://www.clsd.k12.pa.us/parentinfo.cfm?subpage=43704

http://www.colorincolorado.org/glossary/


I hope you enjoy learning about your children as you meet with their teachers.

Apps for English Language Learners

Another snowy day! What a great opportunity to explore some apps that are both fun and educational! Check out the following to find applications for reading, writing, handwriting, vocabulary, phonics, grammar and much more:

http://www.readingrockets.org/search?cx=004997827699593338140%3Anptllrzhp78&cof=FORID%3A11&ie=UTF-8&as_q=apps                                  

 

During these snowy days , February vacation or any time these apps are sure to be entertaining and educational.

 

Enjoy!

Mrs. Hayes

ACCESS Testing

January begins the testing period for ACCESS testing (January 8th to February 11th). ACCESS testing is required for all students who have been identified as limited English proficient in the SIMS report that is submitted by schools in October to the Massachusetts Department of Education.
Students will be assessed in listening, speaking, reading and writing. The speaking and kindergarten tests are administered individually. Listening and reading sessions are administered in small group settings. Students are not allowed to use dictionaries during ACCESS testing. Results will be available at the end of May.
For more information about ACCESS testing please visit : https://www.wida.us/assessment/access/background.aspx
Best wishes for a wonderful 2015!

Curl Up With a Good Book

Now that the nights are long and the weather is cold, what could be better than curling up with a good book? Visit school and public libraries, download books to your e-reader or electronic device. Books are just a click away at websites such as:

www.readingrockets.org/  

www.tumblebooks.com/library/asp/home_tumblebooks.asp      

 

Encourage your child to share what he/she has read by retelling the story, discussing characters, plot and setting and making connections to his/her own experiences. Ask what was interesting about the story, whether your child liked or disliked the story and why he/she liked or disliked the story. Read every day in English or your native language to develop literacy skills.
Happy reading!

Conferences

November has arrived and teachers will begin the process of scheduling conferences with parents. When you receive the Conference Request Form be sure to indicate which teachers you would like to meet with along with the classroom teacher (reading, SSS, ELL). I am hoping to meet with many parents during conferences.
Since conference time is limited, it is a good idea to write down information that you want to share about your child as well as questions and concerns that you may have. During the conference you will be shown samples of your child's work. The teacher(s) will inform you of your child's strengths and areas that may be less strong. Feel free to ask for advice on what can be done at home to support your child in the classroom. Remember that teachers welcome your support and are happy to forward information about your child throughout the year.
The following link may give you some suggestions to help prepare for conferences:
http://schools.nyc.gov/Academics/ELL/FamilyResources/Activities+For+Parents.htm

I am looking forward to meeting you at conferences and sharing the many accomplishments of your children!