From the Desk of Mrs. Taylor
September 2011
Dear Parents/Guardians & Students,
Welcome to the 2011 – 2012 school year at New Vista Middle School. I am planning and anticipating a year filled with challenge, learning, and excitement in United States history. It is my goal to provide the tools necessary for your child’s academic success. In turn, I hope that your child enjoys and benefits from his/ her 8th grade learning experience in U.S. History. Please save this expectations, policy and procedure letter and refer back to it often.
The study of United States history covers the ideas, issues, and events from the early colonial settlements up to World War I. Students examine the formation of our nation and the shaping of the Constitution. They will trace the development of American politics, society, culture, and economy and relate them to the emergence of major regional differences. They learn about the challenges facing the new nation, with an emphasis on the causes and consequences of the Civil War and its aftermath. Students will also make connections between the rise of industrialization and contemporary social and economic conditions in the United States.
Expectations: Knowing what is expected can help your child meet their educational goals with a positive attitude. Students are expected to come to class prepared to learn and with proper supplies; pencil, pen, and paper. Students are expected to be on their best behavior at all times in the classroom and respect the right of other students to get an education. Please see New Vista’s student handbook for school rules.
Classroom rules: These rules are established to create an environment that is conducive for learning for all students. My classroom rules are simple:
Students are rewarded for BEST behavior with praise, BEST tickets, and/or homework passes.
Grading: Success in school cannot be achieved when assignments are not done. Therefore, it is imperative that all assignments, including homework be completed and turned in on time. Late assignments receive a maximum of 25% credit and need to be labeled “Late” and turned in. Homework will be given 1-2 times per week. Some homework assignments including projects will require Internet research and students are expected to complete these assignments and turn them in when due. Students are expected to properly head their papers to include full name, period, date, and assignment, points may be taken off for not following this procedure. My grading scale is as follows:
A = 90% - 100%
B = 80% - 89%
C = 70% - 79%
D = 60% - 69%
F = Below 60%
If assignments, tests/quizzes and projects are not turned in when due, students will receive a zero (0) grade and the assignment will be marked as a missing. Daily agenda and objectives are written on the board. Students are expected to write down the assignments in his/her planner each day.
Absences: Upon return from an absence, students should check with a reliable classmate or check my website – www.mrstaylor.net for assignments given during their absence. Student should make up absent assignment promptly upon returning to school Students have 1 day for each absent day to make up class and homework assignments to receive up to maximum credit. An assignment is late if turned in after the absent period.
School Supplies – Students must come to class prepared to learn. Black or dark blue pens, pencils with lead, paper, and a dedicated folder or notebook for social studies. If you have a spiral notebook, it must have a smooth perforated edge.
I look forward to a successful school year and encourage your participation in your child’s 8th grade learning experience.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Taylor