Mr. Knopp’s blog

 As a result of my watching this video, I am asking you to join me in considering whether our behavior causes us to be "in the way of learning."  Let's commit to do only those things that promote learning.

In his book Only Connect, Dr. Rudy Crew provides the following on page 75. 

TEACHERS SHOULD HAVE HIGH EXPECTATIONS THAT THEIR STUDENTS WILL

• Give their best efforts.
• Complete their work.
• Pay attention.
• Ask good questions.
• Listen to feedback.
• Say when they don't understand something.
• Remain confident in the face of failure.
• Ultimately succeed.

For what it's worth, I agree.  What are your thoughts?

      Special greetings to you parents and guardians of those students likely to be in my 6^th grade class during the 2008-2009 school year.  I am looking forward to next year’s learning opportunities with your children.  To help assure that we have a successful year of learning and growth, I am providing what I hope will be helpful information and expectations.

      I am committed to doing my part to provide an abundance of varied learning activities in a respectful, safe learning environment.  My long-term goal is to do all that can be done to provide your child the opportunity for maximum success now and throughout life in the twenty first century. 

      Our learning encompasses three areas.  First, whereas success on the WASL has been made (by politicians and others) a huge “event”, experience tells me there is much more to life.  Success on the WASL is a very important “thing” (and I continue to be an ardent supporter of school reform), but it is certainly not the only thing.  Second, my vote for most important goes to character—the person I am even when no one is looking (I am shortening my comments about this for the sake of this memo).  The third item of importance in our students’ education is adequate preparation for success in a very digital world—not just in their future, but also right now.

      The following expectations, it seems, will lead to success in all three areas, and it is my hope that you will ardently support your child’s involvement as follows:

·        Each student will take responsibility for her/his own learning.

·        Each student will understand the need to take learning work home, if not able to finish at school.

·        Each student will be at school every day possible—school is the student’s “job.”

·        When absent, a student is responsible for making up required work—no make-up work unless absence is due to illness, doctor/dentist appointment, or is excused by the office.

·        Each student will learn a variety of computer-related skills while engaging in the district approved curriculum and meeting state standards.

·        Each student will have an e-mail address. It would be helpful if parents have e-mail addresses to aid in communication with teacher and school.  I expect to have an electronic newsletter to send to parents as frequently as needed.

·        Each student will be expected to spend time after school, when necessary for behavior issues or finishing work, regardless whether involved in sports programs or other activities.  Activities will wait (Rarely will this require more than 20-30 minutes, and coaches will be made aware of the procedure.).

·        Students unable to comply with reasonable requests (time, place, and manner) will be warned, there will be a phone call home, and finally a parent/teacher/student conference. 

      We have provided a list of school supplies your child will need for the school year. Students will need to replace the consumable supplies throughout the year.  

      One more meaningful event for our sixth grade students is Camp Wooten, scheduled for September 30-October 2.  We will have more information for you at registration in August.    

      Thank you for your participation and support in your child’s success as a person of character and student.

Note:  Please call Lori at the school office during the week of August 18 to make an appointment for a registration conference with Mr. Knopp.