Monday, October 19, 2009

October 19-October 23, 2009

October 19 –October 23, 2009
Weekly Class News
From the kindergarten classroom of Mrs. McCrohan
Email: mccrohanr@billings.k12.mt.us
Phone: 406-281-6205
Blog: dmccrohan.blogspot.com


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HIGHLIGHTS
This week, we are reviewing the numbers 1-10. The letters are V, Z, F, L & M with their sounds. We are talking about bats this week. Our vocabulary words this week are: bats, echolocation, fruit bat, bumblebee bat, and vampire bat. Encourage your child to use these words in a sentence this week. Also, your child should be able to tell you about these words.
We are decorating a pumpkin, into a frog, for the Fall Carnival. It will be auctioned off and the proceeds go back to our classroom for things we may need. We will be working hard on our pumpkin frog, so we hope you get ready to bid on it for us. Also, we need snacks. We are running low and it would be a bad thing. I’m afraid the kids might see me as something tasty.



More news
➢ Tuesdays are our library day. Please return library books.
➢ Fridays are our gym days. Please wear tennis shoes.






Reading Tip of the Week
Point our the printed words in your home and other places your take your child, such as the grocery store.

Upcoming Dates – Mark your calendars!!!
Oct. 26-30 - Red Ribbon Week
Monday – “Lei off Drugs” – Wear Hawaiian Lei
Tuesday – “Drugs Stink – Wear Pink”
Wednesday – “Don’t Let Drugs Tie You Up” – Wear a necktie
Thursday – “No Drugs, No Alcohol, No Sweat” – wear sweats
Friday – “Team Up Against Drugs” – wear sports stuff
Oct. 30 - Harvest Party sponsored by PTA at 6:00
End of 1st quarter
Nov. 3 – Report Cards go home
Nov. 4-6 – Parent/Teacher Conferences – Dismiss at noon each day

Weather Rules
The weather rules are in effect until May or June. Please send your child dressed ready for any weather.


Sunny D Book Spree
Please remember to collect the UPC labels off of Sunny D products. We can use the labels for books for the classroom.


We’re HUNGRY!!!
Please send snacks. Ask your child what he/she would like to eat. They’ve gotten very good with their opinions of snack. Anything that is individually wrapped is great. We have 19 students.


Birthdays – Turning “6”
19 - Ava

Monday, September 21, 2009

September 21 -September 25, 2009

Weekly Class News
From the kindergarten classroom of Mrs. McCrohan
Email: mccrohanr@billings.k12.mt.us
Phone: 406-281-6205
Blog: dmccrohan.blogspot.com


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HIGHLIGHTS
This week, we will be reviewing numbers 1-5. The letters are A, E, I, O & U with their sounds. The color purple and pine. The shapes rectangle and heart. We are talking about our 5 senses and our bodies. We are going to be learning about bones and skin and how our bodies work. Candy for Saturday Live!!!

Tip of the Week
• Remember that learning is fun! The more you know, the more you grow!


Upcoming Dates – Mark your calendars!!!
Sept. 25 – Native American Day
Sept. 26 – Saturday Live at Pioneer Park


“Let’s Find Out” Classroom Subscription

I had such a positive response to the classroom subscription magazine for the kids. We all want what is best for our children. Every one of you responded “yes” to ordering the “Let’s Find Out” subscriptions for the kids. I placed the order so we can get it in and use it as soon as possible. Thank you to all the parents who have already paid. I have about 5 parents who still need to pay me. If you could just send the $4.99 to school with your child that would be a big help. If you don’t remember if you paid, I can let you know what I have in my books. Again, thank you for your support!!!!



Saturday Live Event at Pioneer Park

HELP!!!! Bitterroot needs 2 bags of candy from each student to be able to fill out Candy Shack booth at Saturday Live. We don’t have enough candy for our Candy Shack. Please no chocolate!

Homework

Please work with your child at home on writing letters and your child’s name. This is very important. I’m a seeing problem with getting the right direction with letters. It is very hard for me to get to each child one-on-one with 18 children. I am trying, but you are your child’s best advocate. Please help me and have your child practice their lower case letters at home. If you need the D’Nealeon letters, let me know, and I’ll get you a copy.

Birthdays – Turning “6”

21 – Jeanna
27 - Chloe

September 14 -September 18, 2009

September 14 -September 18, 2009
Weekly Class News
From the kindergarten classroom of Mrs. McCrohan
Email: mccrohanr@billings.k12.mt.us
Phone: 406-281-6205
Blog: dmccrohan.blogspot.com

:



HIGHLIGHTS
This week, we will be learning about the numbers 4 and 5. The letters are L, M, N, R, & S with their sounds. The color blue and orange. The shapes rhombus and oval. We are talking about friends and family and how important they are to us.
More news
➢ Tuesdays are our library day. Please return library books.
➢ Fridays are our gym days. Please wear tennis shoes.

Tip of the Week
• Pay attention to the cafeteria menu. Children that are not hungry learn better. If you don’t like what is on the menu, ask your parents if you can pack your lunch from home. Upcoming Dates – Mark your calendars!!!
Sept. 17 – Constitution Day
Sept. 25 – Native American Day
Sept. 26 – Saturday Live at Pioneer Park


“Let’s Find Out” Classroom Subscription

I had such a positive response to the classroom subscription magazine for the kids. We all want what is best for our children. Every one of you responded “yes” to ordering the “Let’s Find Out” subscriptions for the kids. I placed the order so we can get it in and use it as soon as possible. Thank you to all the parents who have already paid. I have about 5 parents who still need to pay me. If you could just send the $4.99 to school with your child that would be a big help. If you don’t remember if you paid, I can let you know what I have in my books. Again, thank you for your support!!!!



Saturday Live Event at Pioneer Park

Bitterroot needs 2 bags of candy from each student to be able to fill out Candy Shack booth at Saturday Live. Please no chocolate!

HomeworkPlease work with your child at home on writing letters and your child’s name. This is very important. I’m seeing problems with getting the right direction with letters. It is very hard for me to get to each child one-on-one with 18 children. I am trying, but you are your child’s best advocate. Please help me and have your child practice their lower case letters at home. If you need the D’Nealeon letters, let me know, and I’ll get you a copy.

Birthdays – Turning “6”

21 – Jeanna
27 - Chloe

Sunday, August 30, 2009

August 31, -September 4, 2009

HIGHLIGHTS
This is our first full week of school. Hopefully, we will all be ready for it. Last week was a shock to all of us after a summer of fun and relaxation, but now to work. This week, we will be learning about the numbers 0 and 1. The letters b, d, j, k, & p with their sounds. The colors red and yellow. And the shapes square and circle. We will also be reading nursery rhymes. Rhyming is prerequisite to reading and we will spend some time with this.

More news
Tuesdays are our library day. Please return library books.
Thursdays are our gym days. Please wear tennis shoes.


Reading Tip of the Week
Read to your child at least 10-15 minutes a day. Ask questions about the story.
Review all papers with your child that are sent home in the folder.
Take your child to the library and let them check out books with their own library card.

Upcoming Dates – Mark your calendars!!!
Sept. 7 – No School: Labor Day
Sept. 8 – Bitterroot Open House 6 – 7:30 more information to follow
Sept. 26 – Saturday Live at Pioneer Park

“Let’s Find Out” Classroom Subscription
I had such a positive response to the classroom subscription magazine for the kids. We all want what is best for our children. Every one of you responded “yes” to ordering the “Let’s Find Out” subscriptions for the kids. I placed the order so we can get it in and use it as soon as possible. Thank you to all the parents who have already paid. I have about 5 parents who still need to pay me. If you could just send the $4.99 to school with your child that would be a big help. If you don’t remember if you paid, I can let you know what I have in my books. Again, thank you for your support!!!!


Scholastic Book Order
I am sending out the September Scholastic Book order. These monthly book orders are an inexpensive way to build up your child’s book collection. The books are on level with your child’s reading skills. Studies show that children that have access to books daily have more success with reading. I am a big believer of having books around always. We need to set our children up to succeed starting now in Kindergarten. Reading helps them to become life-long learners. That’s enough from me; I’ll get off my soapbox now. The order forms are due back September 11, 2009.


Just Remember………
Grab hold of a magic pencil
Open your eyes and mind
For now begins a journey
Of the most exciting kind.
A journey into learning
A step…a start…a glow,
And I will be there with you
To help and watch you grow.
……….You Are Important!

Monday, May 18, 2009

Newsletter May 18-22

May 18 - 22 2009
Weekly Class News
From the kindergarten classroom of Mrs. McCrohan mccrohanr@billings.k12.mt.us - 406-255-3825


HIGHLIGHTS
This week, we are studying about space, planets and astronauts. In math, we are working on subtraction. Keep working on number recognition up to 30; also work with your child about recognizing a penny, nickel and dime. The letters we're working on this week are J, K, P, T, & V. Monday, we will see Kindercritters Exotics at 9:45. The owner of these animals will come to school and do a show for us with her animals. We should really enjoy them. Friday is Super Hero Day – so where your favorite costume!


More news
• I now have a blog at dmccrohan.blogspot.com. Please visit the blog and read what is going on in the classroom.
• Our gym day is Thursday; please remember to wear gym shoes.
• Our library day is Friday. Please be sure your child returns their book!
• Super Hero Day – Be your favorite hero – real or make believe!


Reading Tip of the Week
Talk about the book you are reading with your child. Help him
or her to make connections.


Upcoming Dates – Mark your calendars!!!
May 18 – Last Day to request a teacher
May 21 – PTA Meeting – Needs Officers!!!!!
May 22 – Spirit Day – Superhero Day
May 25 – Memorial Day, No School
May 29 – Field Day – Tentative Date
May 29 – Kite Flying Afternoon
June 4 - K-6 Awards Assembly in the courtyard at 9:30
June 4 – 6th Grade Graduation @ 7:00 pm in the gym
June 5 – Last Day of School - ½ day

Zoo Field Trip
We had a wonderful time at the zoo. We saw all kinds of animals and Courtney, our leader, told us all about them. We had a great picnic and then played at the park until it was time to come back to school. Deb Brugman, Emma’s mom, took professional pictures and has put them on CD’s. If anyone would like a CD, just let me know and I’ll get a copy from Deb for you.


Weather
Remember, the weather is acting wacky right now, so please dress your child in layers and with a warm jacket, so we can be prepared. If the day turns out warm, your child can take off some of the layers. If the day is cold, your child will be warm. Please continue sending a warm jacket with your child. We’ll use them if needed, but it is good to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.

Upcoming Space Activity
During the week of May 28-22, we will be studying space, the Final Frontier (I just saw the latest Star Trek movie). On Friday, May 22, we will be building robots out of boxes and other materials. I need any available mom with a glue gun to come help me assembly these things. I would like to start assembling them at 9:15. Then, we can have them painted before lunch. Hopefully, after lunch they will be dry so the kids can add the faces and other details. Please check you schedules and see if you will be available, then let me know. I’ll let the office know so they can be expecting you.


Upcoming Weather Activity
The week of May 25-29, we will be studying weather. We'll be talking about rain, snow, sun, clouds and wind. On May 29, we will be flying kites on the playground, hopefully, as a demonstration of the power of wind. Each child will need a kite. If you would get a kite for you child, and maybe an extra kite for a child that may not have one, that would be great. We would probably need 6 extra kites. We need the kites by May 26, so I can see who needs a kite. Parents are welcome to come to school to help fly the kites. Our 4th grade buddy class will be on hand to help as well. So mark your calendars!





Moving out of Area
If you think you may be moving out of the Bitterroot Elementary school area next year, could you please let me or the office know as soon as possible. Mr. Senitte is already making plans for next year’s classes and he would like to have some idea of class sizes. If you don’t know, that is fine. If you are staying – wonderful! He is just trying to get some idea of where we will be placing your child next year. I will be giving my opinion, but in the end, it is his decision and he wants to make the best possible placement.

Sunday, April 19, 2009

April 20-24, 2009

April 20-April 24, 2009
Weekly Class News
From the kindergarten classroom of Mrs. McCrohan


HIGHLIGHTS
This week, we are studying whales and their characteristics. In math, we are still working on addition. Keep working on number recognition up to 30, also work with your child about recognizing a penny, nickel and dime. The letters we're working on this week are L, M, R, S, & X. Friday is Pajama Day. Please have your child wear pajamas with bottoms. Your child can also wear slippers, but they need to bring tennis shoes for outdoor play. As always, dress according to the weather.

More news

I now have a blog at dmccrohan.blogspot.com. Please visit the blog and read what is going on in the classroom. I've actually got it updated!
Our gym day is Thursday, please remember to wear gym shoes.
Our library day is Friday. Please be sure your child returns their book!


Reading Tip of the Week...
Talk about the book you are reading to your child. Help him or her to make connections.


Upcoming Dates – Mark your calendars!!!
April 22 – Secretary's Day – WE LOVE CINDY!!!!!
April 24 – Spirit Day – Pajama Day
May 1 – Vacation Day – No School
May 8 – BPS T-shirt Day
May 14 – Kindergarten Field Trip to the Zoo


Upcoming Field Trip
Our next field trip is a day trip to the zoo. We are scheduled to go on May 14. Not far away. Miss Redmond, Mrs. Rossow and I are making plans. If you would like to volunteer to go, I really would need you. We are taking a school bus, not public transportation, and hopefully no snow!!!!

As we get things organized, I'll get the information to you. If you have ideas, please let me know.
If you have any questions, please call me at 255-3825. You can also email me at mccrohanr@billings.k12.mt.us.

Little Caesar's Read-a-thon
Send in the first slip on the Little Caesar's Read-a-thon letter that I sent home. Please continue reading till the end of the month. Be sure to write down your minutes for all that you or your child reads. I need the reading calendars by April 30 so I can turn them in to the student council.

Sunday, April 5, 2009

April 6-April 10, 2009

April 6-April 10, 2009
Weekly Class News
From the kindergarten classroom of Mrs. McCrohan


HIGHLIGHTS
This week, we are studying reptiles and their characteristics. Please, NO snakes! I can handle just about anything else, but that. In math, we will begin working on addition. We have done activities with math, but we will now be working on it hard. Keep working on number recognition up to 30, also work with your child about recognizing a penny, nickel and dime. The letters we're working on this week are D, J, K & P. We do not have school on Friday or Monday.

More news
I now have a blog at dmccrohan.blogspot.com. Please visit the blog and read what is going on in the classroom. I've actually got it updated!

Be sure to turn in the March book-it calendars. This is the last month for Book-it.

Our gym day is Thursday, please remember to wear gym shoes.

Our library day is Friday. Please be sure your child returns their book!

Reading Tip of the Week...
Verbally “label” familiar objects as you talk with your child.


Upcoming Dates – Mark your calendars!!!

April 9 - 3rd Quarter Report Cards go home
April 10 – Vacation Day – No School
April 13 – PIR Day – No School for students

April 16 – Sodexo Spring Lunch Celebration
April 16 – PTA Meeting @ 6:00 in library – Voting for new officers, etc.
April 17 – Bitterroot Blue & Gold Spirit Day
April 22 – Secretary's Day – WE LOVE CINDY!!!!!
April 24 – Spirit Day (TBD)
May 1 – Vacation Day – No School
May 8 – BPS T-shirt Day


Upcoming Field Trip
Our next field trip is a day trip to the zoo. We are scheduled to go on May 15. Not far away. Miss Redmond, Mrs. Rossow and I are making plans. If you would like to volunteer to go, I really would need you. We are taking a school bus, not public transportation, and hopefully no snow!!!!

As we get things organized, I'll get the information to you. If you have ideas, please let me know.
If you have any questions, please call me at 255-3825. You can also email me at mccrohanr@billings.k12.mt.us.

KUDOSI want to thank my parents who went on the Gainan's Field Trip. It was quite an adventure. Thank you – Paxton Richert, Deb Brugman, and Alicia Hansen. I know all the parents were with us in spirit – I understand work and other obligations. I appreciate all the support I get!

HELP!
Our Treasure box is running low again! The kids are working so hard to get on PERFECT PURPLE that my treasure box is running low. If you can send small, little treasures, we would all appreciate it!!!!!!

We also need snacks! We get very hungry working our brains all day. Thanks Mom!

Our Gainan's Field Trip

We had a wonderful time on Friday when we went to Gainan's. We rode the city bus, for many of us, it was the first time to do so. The kids thought that was great. We could have just had a field trip of riding the bus! I think we shocked the people who rode the buses though, the looks on their faces were so funny when they saw all the kids.

Once we got to Gainan's, the kids were ready to learn. They were fascinated by all the different plants, especially the cactus. I was waiting for boo-boos, but no one was injured. We didn't need band-aids. We saw where the little seeds became plants, then how each plant is transferred to larger pots. The kids got to try rosemary and mint flavored leaves. We got great pictures of the kids spitting out the leaves. Wonderful!

Then, we got to plant some seeds. We had a blast!

The ride back to school was just as fun as the ride to Gainan's. It was still snowing on us and the kids were convinced we had been stranded. But we made it.

Sunday, March 29, 2009

March 30-April 3, 2009

March 30-April 3, 2009
Weekly Class News
From the kindergarten classroom of Mrs. McCrohan

HIGHLIGHTS
This week, we are studying amphibians and their characteristics. In math, we are working on geometry. We will be learning about cylinders, spheres, cubes, etc. Keep working on number recognition up to 30, also work with your child about recognizing a penny, nickel and dime. The letters we're working on this week are Y, Q, H & B. We are also going on a field trip, Friday, to Gainan's for a tour of the greenhouse. This will be fun and will be great background information for when we study plants.


More newsI now have a blog at dmccrohan.blogspot.com. Please visit the blog and read what is going on in the classroom. I've actually got it updated!

Be sure to turn in the March book-it calendars on Tuesday or after. This is the last month for Book-it.

Our gym day is Thursday, please remember to wear gym shoes.

Our library day is Friday. Please be sure your child returns their book!

Send permission slips and $1 for Gainan's Field trip – if you haven't already.!

Reading Tip of the Week...
Visit the library/bookstore with your child to attend story times, choose books to read at home, etc.

Upcoming Dates – Mark your calendars!!!March 30 – End of 3rd Quarter
April 1,2,3 – K-3 Parent/Teacher Conferences
April 3 – BPS Shirt Day
April 9 - 3rd Quarter Report Cards go home
April 10 – Vacation Day – No School
April 13 – PIR Day – No School for students
April 16 – Sodexo Spring Lunch Celebration
April 16 – PTA Meeting @ 6:00 in library
April 17 – Bitterroot Blue & Gold Spirit Day
April 24 – Spirit Day (TBD)
May 1 – Vacation Day – No School
May 8 – BPS T-shirt Day


Upcoming Field Trip
We will be going on a field trip to Gainan's Plant Center on Bench Blvd. Our class will go on April 3 from 9:40 -12:00. This is an early out day, so this is a great adventure for a day like that. Gainan's will show us around the greenhouse, how to take care of plants, and how to plant seeds.

We will be taking a MET bus to and from Gainan's. I have sent home the permission slips, which I will need back in order to for your child to go on the field trip. You also need to send $1.00 for the trip.

If any parent would like to accompany us on the field trip, please let me know. The more – the merrier. It is a great help to have parent volunteers on field trips.

If you have any questions, please call me at 255-3825. You can also email me at mccrohanr@billings.k12.mt.us.

HELP!
Our Treasure box is running low again! The kids are working so hard to get on PERFECT PURPLE that my treasure box is running low. If you can send small, little treasures, we would all appreciate it!!!!!!


Sunday, March 22, 2009

March 23-27, 2009
Weekly Class News
From the kindergarten classroom of Mrs. McCrohan



HIGHLIGHTS
This week, we are studying birds and their characteristics. In math, we are working on geometry. We will be learning about cylinders, spheres, cubes, etc. Keep working on number recognition up to 30, also work with your child about recognizing a penny, nickel and dime. The letters we're working on this week are O, U, C, G & W. We are also going on a field trip, Monday, to Lincoln Center to see a Geometric Dome. This should be exciting and ties in very well to what we have been working on in class.

More news
I now have a blog at dmccrohan.blogspot.com. Please visit the blog and read what is going on in the classroom. I've actually got it updated!

Remember to be reading each night. I would like for you to read to your child, at least, 22 nights this month.

Monday – Field Trip to Lincoln Center – Geometric Dome

Our gym day is Thursday, please remember to wear gym shoes.

Our library day is Friday. Please be sure your child returns their book!

Send permission slips and $1 for Gainan's Field trip – if you haven't already.!


Reading Tip of the Week...
Read many stories with rhyming words and lines that repeat. Invite the child to join in on these parts. Point, word by word, as he or she reads along with you.

March Book-It Calendars

Please read 22 nights for 20 minutes this month.


Upcoming Dates – Mark your calendars!!!

March 27 – Student Council Spirit Day
March 30 – End of 3rd Quarter
April 1,2,3 – K-3 Parent/Teacher Conferences
April 3 – BPS Shirt Day
April 9 - 3rd Quarter Report Cards go home
April 10 – Vacation Day – No School
April 13 – PIR Day – No School for students
April 16 – Sodexo Spring Lunch Celebration
April 16 – PTA Meeting @ 6:00 in library
April 17 – Bitterroot Blue & Gold Spirit Day
April 24 – Spirit Day (TBD)
May 1 – Vacation Day – No School
May 8 – BPS T-shirt Day



Upcoming Field Trip
We will be going on a field trip to Gainan's Plant Center on Bench Blvd. Our class will go on April 3 from 9:40 -12:00. This is an early out day, so this is a great adventure for a day like that. Gainan's will show us around the greenhouse, how to take care of plants, and how to plant seeds.

We will be taking a MET bus to and from Gainan's. I have sent home the permission slips, which I will need back in order to for your child to go on the field trip. You also need to send $1.00 for the trip.

If any parent would like to accompany us on the field trip, please let me know. The more – the merrier. It is a great help to have parent volunteers on field trips.

If you have any questions, please call me at 255-3825. You can also email me at mccrohanr@billings.k12.mt.us.

Friday, March 6, 2009

Newsletter March 9-13, 2009

March 9-13, 2009
Weekly Class News
From the kindergarten classroom of Mrs. McCrohan

HIGHLIGHTS

We have finished learning about where we live, the kids really enjoyed the different topics. Starting this week, we will begin learning about mammals and their characteristics. In math, we are working on telling time and money. We are also using manipulatives to introduce addition. Keep working on number recognition up to 30. The letters we're working on this week are F, L, M, N, & R. The March book order is due on Friday. This is also the last month for the Pizza Hut Book-It program. FYI: Please be sure to read the school newsletter each month. It has important information for all.

More news

I now have a blog at dmccrohan.blogspot.com. Please visit the blog and read what is going on in the classroom. I've actually got it updated!

Remember to be reading each night. I would like for you to read to your child, at least, 22 nights this month.

Our gym day is Thursday, please remember to wear gym shoes.

Our library day is Friday. Please be sure your child returns their book!

Book order is due on Friday – you can order online or send the order to me.



Kid Reading Tip of the Week...
Go to the library and pick out books that interest you.

REMINDER!!!!!!!
With the cold weather and windy days, we still go outside. I have seen many kids, not necessarily from my class, wearing no coats or mittens. Their little hands were raw and red and they were freezing. I just want to remind you to send coats and gloves and anything else you want you're child to wear. I'll make sure they have it on, if they have it. I hate to see any of my babies freezing. If you need one of the weather sheets the kindergarten teachers sent out, just let me know and I'll send it home.


March Book-It Calendars

I'm sending the March calendars out. Please read 22 nights for 20 minutes this month.

March Scholastic Order

With the Scholastic book orders, you can order on the paper order forms, or, you can order online. Log onto www.scholastic.com. Our class user name is: MrsMcCrohansClass. The password is: cluborders. Ordering online is easy and safe. As always, you can send the order and money to me, that is safe, too.

Upcoming Dates – Mark your calendars!!!

March 27 – Student Council Spirit Day
March 30 – End of 3rd Quarter
April 1,2,3 – K-3 Parent/Teacher Conferences
April 3 – BPS Shirt Day
April 9 - 3rd Quarter Report Cards go home
April 10 – Vacation Day – No School
April 16 – PTA Meeting @ 6:00 in library
April 17 – Bitterroot Blue & Gold Spirit Day


Update:

I just wanted to let you, my parents, know how I spent the money I earned from the Winter Carnival. I was able to go to the Yellow Bus and buy 5 tubs of manipulatives. I like to use the manipulatives for math and science. We can add and subtract with them. I also like to use them for weighing and other science experiments. I was also able to get little plastic teddy bears and a scale. I just wanted to thank all of you for supporting our carnival. The carnival helped me be able to add wonderful tools to the classroom. THANK YOU!!!!!!

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

March Scholastic Book Order

Dear Parent,
I have exciting news... You can now place your Scholastic Book Club orders online!

Browse all the great monthly Club selections at low prices and order online - all while helping our classroom earn FREE books, software, and resources.

Here's how it works:
1. Use the information below to access the Scholastic Book Clubs Web site.
2. Browse the titles with your child, and place your order with your credit card.
3. Your order will come to me, and your credit card payment will go directly to Scholastic's secure server. There's no need to send money to school.
4. After I submit the entire class's order to Scholastic, your order will be delivered to our classroom for your child to take home.

www.scholastic.com/parentordering

Class User Name: MrsMcCrohansClass

Password: Cluborders

Remember, placing your online credit card order is completely safe and secure.

Ordering online is the most convenient way to use Scholastic Book Clubs. You can order anytime, right up until the online order due date. And this month, our class can earn additional FREE books, just for trying this online ordering service.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Mrs. McCrohan

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Our Valentine Party

.We had a blast on Friday for our Valentine Party. We enjoyed the fruit salad, carrots, cheese sticks, raisins, cookies and cupcakes. We enjoyed just have some downtime. We're always so busy working, working, working - so it was nice to take a break. The kids had so much fun looking at all their valentines and reading who gave the cards to them. The kids learned so much this past week about how to be good friends and what exactly Valentines Day means. I hope we can take what we've learned and apply it to the rest of the year and beyond.

February 16-20, 2009

HIGHLIGHTS
This week, we are again focusing on Montana and the unique-ness of our state. We are going to be talking about Montana being in the Western part of the United States and how that makes us “wonderfully different” from the rest of the US. We are going to be talking about our heritage of Cowboys and Cowgirls, and nothing works better this week than the NRA Rodeo being in town. In math, we will be adding numbers 28, 29 & 30. Keep working on number recognition, especially out of order – add numbers up to 30. The letters we're working on this week are Q, H, B, D, & J. Tuesday afternoon, I will have a substitute. I will be at school in the morning, but I have meetings in the afternoon. Our Winter Carnival is Friday from 6:00-7:30. I will have Build-A-Bear here for my event. Build-A-Bear will be bringing a game, a football toss, and giving out great prizes. I will be in the building, not the annex, in Julie Betts' 3rd grade room. I hope to see you there!

More news
I now have a blog at dmccrohan.blogspot.com. Please visit the blog and read what is going on in the classroom. I've actually got it updated!
Remember to be reading each night. I would like for you to read to your child, at least, 20 nights this month.
Our gym day is Thursday, please remember to wear gym shoes.
Our library day is Friday. Please be sure your child returns their book!
Winter Carnival – Friday 6:00-7:30


Reading Tip of the Week...
Play a rhyming game. Find an object, like a tree. Have your child think of another word that rhymes with tree. Rhyming helps your child learn sounds and words.


REMINDER!!!!!!!
With the cold weather and windy days, we still go outside. I have seen many kids, not necessarily from my class, wearing no coats or mittens. Their little hands were raw and red and they were freezing. I just want to remind you to send coats and gloves and anything else you want you're child to wear. I'll make sure they have it on, if they have it. I hate to see any of my babies freezing. If you need one of the weather sheets the kindergarten teachers sent out, just let me know and I'll send it home.


February Book-It Calendars
I'm sending the February calendars out. Please read 20 nights for 20 minutes this month.


Upcoming Dates – Mark your calendars!!!
Feb. 20 – Winter Carnival – 6:00-7:30
Feb. 27 – Early out. Students dismiss at 12:00
March 2-6 – Spring Break, No School


Kudos to Wonderful Parents!!!!!!
Thank you for all the goodies that were sent for our Valentines party! We had a blast and we thank all our parents for their hard work!!!!

Sunday, February 8, 2009

February 9-13, 2006

Weekly Class News
From the kindergarten classroom of Mrs. McCrohan



HIGHLIGHTS
In continuing with our social studies theme of studying our neighborhood, city, and state, we are now going to study the USA. I'm looking forward to this unit, because the kids were so involved in the historic voting in November, that I think they will enjoy learning about the President and the US. In math, we will be adding numbers 26 & 27. Keep working on number recognition, especially out of order – add number up to 26 & 27. We are also going to be measuring, weighing and talking about temperature. The letters we're working on this week are U, C, H, B, D, & J. Monday is picture day. Friday, we will have our Valentine party. Feel free to send the kids' valentines to school anytime this week. If you didn't get the class list that was sent home Friday, I'll be happy to send another one.



I now have a blog at dmccrohan.blogspot.com. Please visit the blog and read what is going on in the classroom. I've actually got it updated!
Remember to be reading each night. I would like for you to read to your child, at least, 20 nights this month.
Our gym day is Thursday, please remember to wear gym shoes.
Our library day is Friday. Please be sure your child returns their book!
Valentine Party is Friday. Please send the valentines anytime this week. Send the valentine party goodies on Friday.


Reading Tip of the Week...
Read slowly enough for your child to build mental images. Take into account your child's age and development stage and adjust your pace.




REMINDER!!!!!!!
With the cold weather and windy days, we still go outside. I have seen many kids, not necessarily from my class, wearing no coats or mittens. Their little hands were raw and red and they were freezing. I just want to remind you to send coats and gloves and anything else you want you're child to wear. I'll make sure they have it on, if they have it. I hate to see any of my babies freezing. If you need one of the weather sheets the kindergarten teachers sent out, just let me know and I'll send it home.


February Book-It Calendars
January Book-it Calendars are due. I'm sending the February calendars out. Please read 20 nights for 20 minutes this month.



Upcoming Dates – Mark your calendars!!!
Feb. 9 – Spring Picture Day – class pictures and individual pictures
Feb. 20 – Winter Carnival – 6:00-7:30
Feb. 27 – Early out. Students dismiss at 12:00
March 2-6 – Spring Break, No School



Kudos to Wonderful Parents!!!!!!
Thank you to all the parents who have sent snack to feed the hungry in the classroom! We all appreciate it very much! The little ones are hungry after morning recess and they don't like missing snack.
Thank you to all the parents who have sent replacement supplies. We work hard and our supplies just don't keep up with us! We use lots of crayons, pencils and glue sticks. We appreciate all the extra supplies! We keep learning and it's good to have our supplies handy.

Groundhog Day

On Monday, February 2, we discussed Phil, the groundhog. We were waiting to see if he would see his shadow or not. It was unanimous in the class that he should not see his shadow, we are quite tired of winter. We used our computers to look on the Internet to see if Phil saw his shadow or not. We were sad to learn that Phil, had indeed, seen his shadow. The kids were excited, though, to see that the Internet had the same pictures of a book I read them. They felt like they had gotten to participate in the groundhog activity. We decided we can get through 6 weeks more of winter, but Spring had better hurry.

100's Day

On 100's day (Monday), we counted to 100 with our counting caterpillar. We did activities that involved 100. We also had our 100 Mix in the afternoon. I gave the kids a handful of each goodie that they brought. They had to count out 10 of each and place it in a square. When we got 10 squares filled, we counted by 10's. The kids saw that this was literally 100. It was more powerful than just counted by 10's every day. They had a great time.

Sunday, January 25, 2009

Play Performance

On Friday, we watched the 4th-6th grade students perform "Bebop with Aesop". The 4th -6th graders had auditioned for the Venture Theatre and were selected to perform the play. The students had been practicing for 2 weeks to bring this play to life. It was a wonderful performance and I think the kindergarteners loved watching it. They seemed to enjoy it very much. For the rest of the afternoon, the kids continued discussing the play. So I think it made an impression on them.

It's wonderful to bring different art mediums to the children. They enjoy watching performances and learning. I love watching their faces as they experience new things.

January 26-30, 2009

HIGHLIGHTS
This week, we'll be discussing communities again, but we will be talking about the community helpers that work in our community. While discussing community helpers, we can talk about what we might like to be when we grown up. In math, we will be reviewing all numbers up to 25. Keep working on number recognition, especially out of order – add number up to 25. The letters we're working on this week are L, M, N, R, & S. We are reading everyday in groups, so keep working with your child at home – either you read or let your child read to you. You can also take turns reading. Let your child read the words he/she recognizes and you can read the rest. It's a wonderful way to practice together.


More news
I now have a blog at dmccrohan.blogspot.com. Please visit the blog and read what is going on in the classroom. I've actually got it updated!
Remember to be reading each night. I would like for you to read to your child, at least, 18 nights this month.
Our gym day is Thursday, please remember to wear gym shoes.
Thursday, January 29, Early out. Dismiss at 12:00.
Our library day is Friday. Please be sure your child returns their book!


Reading Tip of the Week...
Reading aloud to children improves their reading fluency. Do it everyday!


REMINDER!!!!!!!
With the cold weather and windy days, we still go outside. I have seen many kids, not necessarily from my class, wearing no coats or mittens. Their little hands were raw and red and they were freezing. I just want to remind you to send coats and gloves and anything else you want you're child to wear. I'll make sure they have it on, if they have it. I hate to see any of my babies freezing. If you need one of the weather sheets the kindergarten teachers sent out, just let me know and I'll send it home.


January Book-It Calendars
I'm sending out the January Book-it calendars. Try to read 18 nights this month for 20 minutes a night. The calendars are due by January 31 or February 2.

Upcoming Dates – Mark your calendars!!!
Feb. 9 – Spring Picture Day – class pictures and individual pictures
Feb. 20 – Winter Carnival – tentative date
Feb. 27 – Early out. Students dismiss at 12:00
March 2-6 – Spring Break, No School

Monday, January 19, 2009

Fun Library Activity

On Friday, Jan. 16, the kids had a great time in library. Besides the fun of checking out great books, Mrs. Weiss showed the kids an online video of a cute way to put on their coats. The website where Mes. Weiss got this video was www.crawfordthecat.com. This website has many cute videos and activities for the kids, if you get a chance to visit it.

January 19-23, 2009

HIGHLIGHTS
This week, we'll be discussing communities. In particular, Billings. Billings has so many wonderful natural and historic sites. I'm going to try to show the kids some of the sites thru pictures since we can't go on a field trip. I think they will enjoy learning about their town. In math, we will be working on numbers 23 & 24. Keep working on number recognition, especially out of order – add number up to 24. The letters we're working on this week are T, V, Z, & V.


I now have a blog at dmccrohan.blogspot.com. Please visit the blog and read what is going on in the classroom. I've actually got it updated!
Remember to be reading each night. I would like for you to read to your child, at least, 18 nights this month.
Our gym day is Thursday, please remember to wear gym shoes.
Our library day is Friday. Please be sure your child returns their book!
Report cards will be going out on Friday. Please check backpacks for them. Sign the envelope and return it to me as soon as possible.

Reading Tip of the Week...
Not all reading takes place between the covers of a book. What about menus, road signs, food labels, and sheet music? Take advantage of countless spur-of-the-moment opportunities for reading during the course of your family's busy day.


Homework Alert!
Homework nights went well last. Thank you for the comments that you wrote and the time you invested with your child. Establishing homework routines now will create wonderful study habits for the future.


2nd Quarter Report Cards
Report cards this quarter come home to via your child. We don't have formal conferences for 2nd quarter. Please know that if you have questions or concerns, you may call me so we can schedule a conference. You do not have to wait till 3rd quarter to ask any questions you may have. You can call me at 255-3825.


REMINDER!!!!!!!
With the cold weather and windy days, we still go outside. I have seen many kids, not necessarily from my class, wearing no coats or mittens. Their little hands were raw and red and they were freezing. I just want to remind you to send coats and gloves and anything else you want you're child to wear. I'll make sure they have it on, if they have it. I hate to see any of my babies freezing. If you need one of the weather sheets the kindergarten teachers sent out, just let me know and I'll send it home.


January Book-It Calendars
I'm sending out the January Book-it calendars. Try to read 18 nights this month for 20 minutes a night. The calendars are due by January 31 or February 2.


A Big Thank You!!!!!!
Thank you to everyone who has sent crayons, glue, pencils, school boxes, and treasure box prizes. This helps us out a great deal. Our supplies make our days run smoother and easier. The treasure box prizes help with behavior, the kids want to go to the prize box and they work harder with the behavior. Thank you for all your help everyday. You make my job so much easier!!!!

Sunday, January 11, 2009

January 12-16, 2009 Newsletter

January 12-16, 2009
Weekly Class News
From the kindergarten classroom of Mrs. McCrohan
HIGHLIGHTS
This week, we'll be discussing winter. In math, we will be working on numbers 21 & 22. Keep working on number recognition, especially out of order – add number up to 22. The letters we're working on this week are B, D, J, K and P. We have a rather quiet week. I'm just testing the little ones for report cards, which will be out soon. So far with what I've tested, they are doing wonderful. Right on track for 1st grade. Keep up the hard work at home, don't let up! We still have 5 months to go!


I now have a blog at dmccrohan.blogspot.com. Please visit the blog and read what is going on in the classroom. I've actually got it updated!
Remember to be reading each night. I would like for you to read to your child, at least, 18 nights this month.
Our gym day is Thursday, please remember to wear gym shoes.
Our library day is Friday. Please be sure your child returns their book!


Homework Alert!
Homework begins tonight. The yellow folder will be in your child's backpack. Tonight's homework is reading. Your child should be able to easily read the book they are bringing home. I have a place on the back of the book for you to sign that your child read the book. Please send the folder, the book, and the assignment sheet back to school tomorrow. The assignment sheet is available for you to write any concerns or comments on for me to look at. Again, the homework should take NO longer than 10 minutes. If it does for some reason, please let me know so I can find out what the problem is.
Handwriting homework will come home on Tuesday, and Math will come home on Wednesday. Please follow the same instructions as Monday's homework.


REMINDER!!!!!!!
With the cold weather and windy days, we still go outside. I have seen many kids, not necessarily from my class, wearing no coats or mittens. Their little hands were raw and red and they were freezing. I just want to remind you to send coats and gloves and anything else you want you're child to wear. I'll make sure they have it on, if they have it. I hate to see any of my babies freezing. If you need one of the weather sheets the kindergarten teachers sent out, just let me know and I'll send it home.


January Book-It Calendars
I'm sending out the January Book-it calendars. Try to read 18 nights this month for 20 minutes a night. The calendars are due by January 31 or February 2.

A Big Thank You!!!!!!
Thank you to everyone who has sent crayons, glue, pencils, school boxes, and treasure box prizes. This helps us out a great deal. Our supplies make our days run smoother and easier. The treasure box prizes help with behavior, the kids want to go to the prize box and they work harder with the behavior. Thank you for all your help everyday. You make my job so much easier!!!!

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

January 5-9, 2009 Newsletter

January 5-9, 2009
Weekly Class News
From the kindergarten classroom of Mrs. McCrohan

HIGHLIGHTS

Happy New Year! This week in math, we will be working on reviewing all numbers up to 20. Keep working on number recognition, especially out of order. We're also working on counting by 5's. The letters we're working on this week are C, G, W, Y and Z. This week, we'll be learning about Polar Animals and the environment they live in. Book order is due on Friday, January 9, 2009.
More news

I now have a blog at dmccrohan.blogspot.com. Please visit the blog and read what is going on in the classroom. I've actually got it updated!

Remember to be reading each night. I would like for you to read to your child, at least, 18 nights this month.

Our gym day is Thursday, please remember to wear gym shoes.

Our library day is Friday. Please be sure your child returns their book!

I will have a substitute on Friday, January 9, 2009. I will be gone to a teacher seminar.

My treasure box is running low on goodies. If you would be so kind to send little toys for me to replenish the box, I would appreciate it. The Dollar Tree is a wonderful place to get goodies.


Homework Alert!
We are beginning our 3rd Quarter soon. Only 5 months until 1st grade – time is flying by. With the new semester beginning, I will send home homework, to be returned the next day. Monday night will be reading, Tuesday will be handwriting, and Wednesday will be math. None of the work should take more than 10 minutes to complete each night. If it does take longer, please let me know.
Your child will bring home a yellow homework folder on each homework night. Their homework and an assignment sheet will be included in the folder. I will leave a spot on the assignment sheet for you to write any comments or concerns about the homework. Please sign the assignment sheet that your child completed the homework and return the homework and folder. When your child returns the homework, they will earn a sticker. When their homework chart is full of stickers, they can make a trip to the treasure box.
Please help me get the kiddos ready for 1st grade and used to doing homework.

Helpful Hints
**If your child's red take-home folder is ripped or torn-up, please get another folder. Since we will be using these folders all year for sending home our daily work and communication between you and me, these are very necessary. Maybe you can find a folder that is plastic, those might hold up better.

REMINDER!!!!!!!
With the cold weather and windy days, we still go outside. I have seen many kids, not necessarily from my class, wearing no coats or mittens. Their little hands were raw and red and they were freezing. I just want to remind you to send coats and gloves and anything else you want you're child to wear. I'll make sure they have it on, if they have it. I hate to see any of my babies freezing. If you need one of the weather sheets the kindergarten teachers sent out, just let me know and I'll send it home.

January Book-It Calendars
I'm sending out the January Book-it calendars. Try to read 18 nights this month for 20 minutes a night. The calendars are due by January 31 or February 2.

School Boxes
Over the years, I've tried many different ways to handle the supplies issue in the classroom. We start out with community supplies, that works for a while, then the fighting starts. So, we progress to our own supplies, which we put in ziplock bags. Usually that works fine. But, I'm finding that the ziplock bags are not holding up the way I would like. Unfortunately, I only have 7 school boxes that I have collected over the years (from my children). If you could get a school box for your child by January, that would be wonderful. That will help us corral our supplies and keep it off the floor.

School Supplies Alert!!!
We are running out of glue sticks and glue bottles. We do a lot of work with glue and we're using up everything we have. If each child were to bring another 6 glue sticks and 1 bottle of Elmer's glue, that should last till the end of the year.
Also, our crayons are disappearing or breaking. If you could also send 1 more box of 24 crayons, we would all appreciate it. Keep your fingers crossed!!