Cranberry Relish-Delicious!
Ingredients:
3 bags of fresh cranberries
3 large, fresh oranges,seedless (or 4-5 smaller)
3 large, fresh apples, Braeburn, Gala or Johnathan are best (or 4-5 smaller)
About 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional if you don't like nuts)
1 small box of strawberry or cherry jello mix. You can use sugarfree, if you are looking to cut calories/sugar.
About 2/3-1 cup sugar, or combination of sweetener, such as Truvia and sugar. Sweeten to your own taste. It actually tastes sweeter after it sets a few days.
Directions:
Wash cranberries in cold water, removing any mushy or icky-looking ones. Wash the oranges and apples. Peel and core apples. Remove about half the orange peels, leaving on the rest. Chunk up apples and oranges small enough to go into a grinder/processor. You want little chunks. Alternate grinding cranberries, oranges and apples. Mix in walnuts, jello mix, sugar/sweetener. Refrigerate covered in a glass or earthen bowl, if possible. Best when allowed to set a few days so flavors blend, but can be eaten immediately, too.
This is a traditional holiday dish in my family. I hope it becomes a tradition with your family, too! Enjoy!
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Newsletter, December 6, 2010
Newsletter from Room 508
December 6, 2010
Dear Students and Families,
Our Family Holiday Dinner last Friday, December 4th, was a success! Thirty-three family members attended along with all 20 of our class members. Thank you to everyone who brought delicious food to share, helped serve and helped clean up.
Homework going home today is due Monday, December 13th. The Unit Four Assessment in Math will be Tuesday. We will begin Everyday Math Unit 5 on Wednesday. Look for the family letter and homework help included in this homework packet.
This Friday, students will have their weekly spelling and reading assessments. This week's spelling words are listed below. Please help your child practice the words. See the weekly top spellers on the bulletin board outside our room, next to our book reports.
Rubber band bracelets cause problems, and are not allowed in class. They will be taken away. Students should not bring any toys, jewelry, candy, or anything that might distract them in the classroom.
This week's spelling words:
1. fish
2. shop
3. ship
4. with
5. thin
6. thank
7. run
8. bug
9. want
10. all
Fieldtrip! Tuesday, December 14th
The Nutcracker Ballet
Students must have a signed permission slip to go
The Helen Cordero Winter Performance is December 14th, 6:00 PM.
Our class will perform The Chinese Tea Dance
from the Nutcracker ballet, and I hope all students and
families will attend! For the performance, I ask students all to
wear black (or dark) pants or skirt, and white long-sleeved tops.
Girls can wear pants or skirts with tights.
Ms. Laura, our student teacher, is graduating. Her last day with us is
tomorrow, Tuesday, December 7th. We are planning
a little surprise party for her at the end of the day (1:15-1:55), with
cupcakes and punch. You are welcome to join us to wish her well, and say goodbye. Our class has been richly blessed having her in our room. We will miss her.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Wise
294-4240, gaylemwise@gmail.com
December 6, 2010
Dear Students and Families,
Our Family Holiday Dinner last Friday, December 4th, was a success! Thirty-three family members attended along with all 20 of our class members. Thank you to everyone who brought delicious food to share, helped serve and helped clean up.
Homework going home today is due Monday, December 13th. The Unit Four Assessment in Math will be Tuesday. We will begin Everyday Math Unit 5 on Wednesday. Look for the family letter and homework help included in this homework packet.
This Friday, students will have their weekly spelling and reading assessments. This week's spelling words are listed below. Please help your child practice the words. See the weekly top spellers on the bulletin board outside our room, next to our book reports.
Rubber band bracelets cause problems, and are not allowed in class. They will be taken away. Students should not bring any toys, jewelry, candy, or anything that might distract them in the classroom.
This week's spelling words:
1. fish
2. shop
3. ship
4. with
5. thin
6. thank
7. run
8. bug
9. want
10. all
Fieldtrip! Tuesday, December 14th
The Nutcracker Ballet
Students must have a signed permission slip to go
The Helen Cordero Winter Performance is December 14th, 6:00 PM.
Our class will perform The Chinese Tea Dance
from the Nutcracker ballet, and I hope all students and
families will attend! For the performance, I ask students all to
wear black (or dark) pants or skirt, and white long-sleeved tops.
Girls can wear pants or skirts with tights.
Ms. Laura, our student teacher, is graduating. Her last day with us is
tomorrow, Tuesday, December 7th. We are planning
a little surprise party for her at the end of the day (1:15-1:55), with
cupcakes and punch. You are welcome to join us to wish her well, and say goodbye. Our class has been richly blessed having her in our room. We will miss her.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Wise
294-4240, gaylemwise@gmail.com
Monday, December 6, 2010
Turkey Gravy Recipe
When you need a bunch of really good turkey gravy, here's what to do:
Ingredients:
32oz of turkey or chicken broth (I use the kind in a box, organic, free-range, if possible)
giblets from your turkey
1 can of cream of chicken condensed soup (or cream of celery)
about 2/3 cup flour
2-3 cups of turkey drippings from your hot, roasted turkey. I use a baster to get it out of the roaster/bag.
Reserve about 1 1/2 cups of broth. In a large saucepan, combine the remaining broth and turkey drippings. Add rinsed giblets and simmer about 30 minutes. Remove the giblets, skin the gizzards, and cut all the giblets up into tiny little pieces. Put them back in the broth. Add the can of soup. Whisk together reserved broth (cool) and flour. Whisk this flour mixture into the pan of simmering broth and drippings. Simmer for 5 minutes, whisk constantly. If your gravy is not thick enough, make more thickener. Do this by whisking together a 1/2 cup flour with 1/2 cup of cool milk or cool broth, then add it to the gravy. Simmer five more minutes, whisking constantly. Add black pepper to taste. The soup and broth usually contain plenty of salt for the gravy. Serve hot.
You can add the little bag of "gravy" that's included with your turkey too, if you wish.
And, if you end up with more gravy than you need, the gravy is great to add to a pot of turkey noodle soup, which is also a good way to use up left over turkey!
Ingredients:
32oz of turkey or chicken broth (I use the kind in a box, organic, free-range, if possible)
giblets from your turkey
1 can of cream of chicken condensed soup (or cream of celery)
about 2/3 cup flour
2-3 cups of turkey drippings from your hot, roasted turkey. I use a baster to get it out of the roaster/bag.
Reserve about 1 1/2 cups of broth. In a large saucepan, combine the remaining broth and turkey drippings. Add rinsed giblets and simmer about 30 minutes. Remove the giblets, skin the gizzards, and cut all the giblets up into tiny little pieces. Put them back in the broth. Add the can of soup. Whisk together reserved broth (cool) and flour. Whisk this flour mixture into the pan of simmering broth and drippings. Simmer for 5 minutes, whisk constantly. If your gravy is not thick enough, make more thickener. Do this by whisking together a 1/2 cup flour with 1/2 cup of cool milk or cool broth, then add it to the gravy. Simmer five more minutes, whisking constantly. Add black pepper to taste. The soup and broth usually contain plenty of salt for the gravy. Serve hot.
You can add the little bag of "gravy" that's included with your turkey too, if you wish.
And, if you end up with more gravy than you need, the gravy is great to add to a pot of turkey noodle soup, which is also a good way to use up left over turkey!
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Ode to Miss Laura
Dear Miss Laura
To the Tune of Yankee Doodle
Oscar floats around the room.
Romeo, are you flying?
Daniel's feet are in his chair,
And Carmen keeps on trying.
Adrian F likes to talk.
Adrian G's an artist.
Adrian T wears a Mohawk cut.
Our Adrians are the smartest.
Dear Miss Laura teaches us,
Don't be mean to one another.
Keep your hands in your own lap,
Line up behind each other.
Yulissa follows all the rules.
Michael wants attention.
Caitlyn gives such warm sweet hugs.
"Dianeli, what's your question?"
Ty hates getting out of bed.
Makayla's always thirsty.
"Stop hitting yourself in the head."
Please, Ty, show Andres mercy.
Dear Miss Laura teaches us.
"Echo read what I am reading."
"Fill in the blanks. Use periods."
"Erasers aren't for eating."
"Joseph, now what have you cut?"
Daniel needs the potty.
Michael can't stop, "but, but, but…"
A nose can sure get snotty.
Vicente's gone away too long--
What's he doing in the restroom?
Arely's shy to sing the song.
Pew, do you smell that strange fume?
Dear Miss Laura teaches us
How to write a sentence.
Raise your hand when you need help.
"Who knows what 5 plus 5 is?"
"Michael, go sit in your chair."
Who wants community service?
Ryanne looks the other way
When Romeo makes her nervous.
"Please stop licking Carmen's hair."
"Trystiana, don't tell on others."
Gigi's crossed two fingers in the air.
"Here's a note to give your mother."
Dear Miss Laura teaches us
Patience, love and caring.
We'd like to make her stay all year,
'Cause we're no good at sharing.
by Gayle Wise
(fond memories of Room 508)
To the Tune of Yankee Doodle
Oscar floats around the room.
Romeo, are you flying?
Daniel's feet are in his chair,
And Carmen keeps on trying.
Adrian F likes to talk.
Adrian G's an artist.
Adrian T wears a Mohawk cut.
Our Adrians are the smartest.
Dear Miss Laura teaches us,
Don't be mean to one another.
Keep your hands in your own lap,
Line up behind each other.
Yulissa follows all the rules.
Michael wants attention.
Caitlyn gives such warm sweet hugs.
"Dianeli, what's your question?"
Ty hates getting out of bed.
Makayla's always thirsty.
"Stop hitting yourself in the head."
Please, Ty, show Andres mercy.
Dear Miss Laura teaches us.
"Echo read what I am reading."
"Fill in the blanks. Use periods."
"Erasers aren't for eating."
"Joseph, now what have you cut?"
Daniel needs the potty.
Michael can't stop, "but, but, but…"
A nose can sure get snotty.
Vicente's gone away too long--
What's he doing in the restroom?
Arely's shy to sing the song.
Pew, do you smell that strange fume?
Dear Miss Laura teaches us
How to write a sentence.
Raise your hand when you need help.
"Who knows what 5 plus 5 is?"
"Michael, go sit in your chair."
Who wants community service?
Ryanne looks the other way
When Romeo makes her nervous.
"Please stop licking Carmen's hair."
"Trystiana, don't tell on others."
Gigi's crossed two fingers in the air.
"Here's a note to give your mother."
Dear Miss Laura teaches us
Patience, love and caring.
We'd like to make her stay all year,
'Cause we're no good at sharing.
by Gayle Wise
(fond memories of Room 508)
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Family Holiday PotlucK Dinner
Our potluck will be on December 3rd, 12 noon, in our classroom. Everyone is invited. Please sign up to bring one of your favorite holiday dishes. I am providing the turkey. The sign-up sheet is on our classroom door.
Fieldtrip to see the Nutcracker
On December 14th, our class along with Ms. Swickard's kindergarten and Ms Nichols' second grade class are going to see the Nutcracker at the Kimo Theatre. We are dressing up for the event. Cost is $5.00 per person, and permission slips and money are due by Friday, December 3rd.
Parent Teacher Conferences, Nov 22nd and 23rd, 2010
All but one child was represented at PT Conferences today and yesterday. I have such a great bunch of parents! I really enjoyed meeting everyone, and talking about the kids with those who love and appreciate them best. Thank you for sharing stories, insights, and concerns. It sure helps me understand my students and their needs. These were the best conferences I've ever had!
Friday, October 15, 2010
Pinto Beans
My dear neighbor showed me the best way to make great pinto beans. You will need a
1. crock pot
2. Clean dried pinto beans, about 3-4 cups. Light beans are freshest. Don't soak them first!
3. Goodies like boullion, onion, meat, garlic, chiles.
Directions:
Put the beans in the crockpot; cover with a few inches of cold water. Turn it on high. In about 6-8 hours you will have tender, perfect beans. Or, you can put the beans on in the morning, but be sure to add lots of water, and let them cook on low all day, 8-10 hours.
After the beans are tender, then add stuff you like such as chicken or vegetable boullion, sauteed onion and garlic, red chile powder, cooked beef, or pork or chicken sausage, a few cubed potatoes. And, of course if you can, add pealed, de-seeded, chopped, roasted, green chiles, as many as you like. Frozen chiles work great. Simmer 30-60 minutes in the crockpot a bit longer after adding the goodies. If you like your bean broth thicker, you can thicken it with flour or cornstarch. But it will thicken itself if you simmer it a bit longer.
The crockpot is very forgiving. It's nearly impossible to goof up, as long as the beans don't cook dry. They turn out delicious.
* I wear rubber gloves when working with chiles. So does Mark. Our neighbors laugh at us, but at least we aren't walking around with hands on fire for hours afterwards.
1. crock pot
2. Clean dried pinto beans, about 3-4 cups. Light beans are freshest. Don't soak them first!
3. Goodies like boullion, onion, meat, garlic, chiles.
Directions:
Put the beans in the crockpot; cover with a few inches of cold water. Turn it on high. In about 6-8 hours you will have tender, perfect beans. Or, you can put the beans on in the morning, but be sure to add lots of water, and let them cook on low all day, 8-10 hours.
After the beans are tender, then add stuff you like such as chicken or vegetable boullion, sauteed onion and garlic, red chile powder, cooked beef, or pork or chicken sausage, a few cubed potatoes. And, of course if you can, add pealed, de-seeded, chopped, roasted, green chiles, as many as you like. Frozen chiles work great. Simmer 30-60 minutes in the crockpot a bit longer after adding the goodies. If you like your bean broth thicker, you can thicken it with flour or cornstarch. But it will thicken itself if you simmer it a bit longer.
The crockpot is very forgiving. It's nearly impossible to goof up, as long as the beans don't cook dry. They turn out delicious.
* I wear rubber gloves when working with chiles. So does Mark. Our neighbors laugh at us, but at least we aren't walking around with hands on fire for hours afterwards.
Green Chile Stew
Last week during the Balloon Fiesta we had lots of company, and I made a pot of green chile stew. It was a big hit, and I promised to post the recipe, though I don't really have a "recipe" but I can tell you how I made it. It's relatively easy.
You need:
1. about 3 quarts Chicken Broth (I buy the 32 oz boxes of organic broth at Sunflower Market or Trader Joes, but any kind will do, or even better, make your own!
2. One very large onion sauteed just until transparent and sweet.
3. Three or five crushed cloves of garlic
4. About 2 pounds very lean pork, such as tenderloin, cubed, lightly sauteed with the garlic. If you are anti-pork, you can use chicken.
5. Roasted Green Chillies--Hatch, NM chillies are the best, peeled, de-seeded, chopped. The amount depends on how hot you like it. The "big boy pot" I made used about 30, 6-inch med-hot chillies. Frozen chiles work just fine.
6. Five or 6 medium fresh tomatoes. If you have to used canned, or frozen be careful not to use too many so that the tomatoes don't overpower the chile flavor.
7. Crushed dried, oregano and Red chile powder--not the kind in the spice cans, but the kind you find in celeophane bags in the Mexican food section. About a heaping tablespoon of dried oregano pods, crush them in your palm and add to the pot. The red chile, use about a tablespoon or 2, really depending on your own preference.
Mix all that together in a soup pot and simmer about an hour or two, until the meat is as tender as you want it. The longer you simmer, the thicker it gets. And if you want it thicker quicker, you can use a flour or cornstarch thickener. But it is a light, semi-clear stew. If you need to stretch it a bit, add more broth, or a few bullion cubes and water. Even part beef or vegetable bullion or broth works fine.
I like pinto beans in mine, but some folks like their's beanless, so I cook the beans separately, and add them to my personal bowl of stew. I'll post a great method of cooking a pot of pinto beans next.
Serve the stew with fresh made tortillas if they are available.
Yum!
Enjoy!
You need:
1. about 3 quarts Chicken Broth (I buy the 32 oz boxes of organic broth at Sunflower Market or Trader Joes, but any kind will do, or even better, make your own!
2. One very large onion sauteed just until transparent and sweet.
3. Three or five crushed cloves of garlic
4. About 2 pounds very lean pork, such as tenderloin, cubed, lightly sauteed with the garlic. If you are anti-pork, you can use chicken.
5. Roasted Green Chillies--Hatch, NM chillies are the best, peeled, de-seeded, chopped. The amount depends on how hot you like it. The "big boy pot" I made used about 30, 6-inch med-hot chillies. Frozen chiles work just fine.
6. Five or 6 medium fresh tomatoes. If you have to used canned, or frozen be careful not to use too many so that the tomatoes don't overpower the chile flavor.
7. Crushed dried, oregano and Red chile powder--not the kind in the spice cans, but the kind you find in celeophane bags in the Mexican food section. About a heaping tablespoon of dried oregano pods, crush them in your palm and add to the pot. The red chile, use about a tablespoon or 2, really depending on your own preference.
Mix all that together in a soup pot and simmer about an hour or two, until the meat is as tender as you want it. The longer you simmer, the thicker it gets. And if you want it thicker quicker, you can use a flour or cornstarch thickener. But it is a light, semi-clear stew. If you need to stretch it a bit, add more broth, or a few bullion cubes and water. Even part beef or vegetable bullion or broth works fine.
I like pinto beans in mine, but some folks like their's beanless, so I cook the beans separately, and add them to my personal bowl of stew. I'll post a great method of cooking a pot of pinto beans next.
Serve the stew with fresh made tortillas if they are available.
Yum!
Enjoy!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
October 4, 2010
Dear Students and Families,
Homework going home today is due next Monday, October 11th. Thank you, parents, for making sure your child has a set place and time, and the support they need to complete their homework, and make sure it is returned on time. Your child should not be working more than 20 minutes per day on homework, plus the 20 minutes for reading. If it takes your child more than 20 minutes a day to complete homework, please write a note or call me to let me know.
There is no school this Friday, October 8th because of our Fall Holiday. We will be doing our spelling test and reading assessment on Thursday, so please make sure your child is present! Always, the last day of the week is assessment day. Make-up testing is often not possible. Missing a test can affect your child's grades. Students' assessments will be kept in their Data Notebooks at school. Parents are always welcome to come in and see their child's data notebook and grades.
It is so important for your child is at school everyday possible.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Peace Day Parade
We were sad that 4 students were absent today, so did not have opportunity to join our parade.
Newsletter Sept 20, 2010
Newsletter from Room 508
September 20, 2010
Dear Students and Families,
Homework going home today is due next Monday, September 27th. Make sure your child has a set place and time to do homework. Let's set a goal for every child to complete and turn in homework every week!
Wednesday, September 23rd, is the International Day of Peace. We will paint t-shirts with pictures of peaceful acts and symbols. Please bring a white or light colored plain t-shirt to decorate.
School begins at 7:45 and is dismissed at 1:55. If you need to pick up your child before 1:55, you must go to the office and get a release, then bring it to the classroom. I encourage parents to schedule appointments after school hours whenever possible.
To see our classroom blog, go to http://turtlezoop.blogspot.com
Student Backpacks Make sure they are clean and free of things not appropriate for school. Students should not bring chips, candy, toys, electronics such as Game Boys, or drinks (other than water) to school. Students may bring water bottles with water inside and names outside.
Spelling Words:
1. man
2. can
3. mat
4. cat
5. up
6. not
7. hat
8. ran
9. that
10. up
Practice theses words.
Test is Friday.
Have a great week!
Mrs. Wise
gaylemwise@gmail.com
September 20, 2010
Dear Students and Families,
Homework going home today is due next Monday, September 27th. Make sure your child has a set place and time to do homework. Let's set a goal for every child to complete and turn in homework every week!
Wednesday, September 23rd, is the International Day of Peace. We will paint t-shirts with pictures of peaceful acts and symbols. Please bring a white or light colored plain t-shirt to decorate.
School begins at 7:45 and is dismissed at 1:55. If you need to pick up your child before 1:55, you must go to the office and get a release, then bring it to the classroom. I encourage parents to schedule appointments after school hours whenever possible.
To see our classroom blog, go to http://turtlezoop.blogspot.com
Student Backpacks Make sure they are clean and free of things not appropriate for school. Students should not bring chips, candy, toys, electronics such as Game Boys, or drinks (other than water) to school. Students may bring water bottles with water inside and names outside.
Spelling Words:
1. man
2. can
3. mat
4. cat
5. up
6. not
7. hat
8. ran
9. that
10. up
Practice theses words.
Test is Friday.
Have a great week!
Mrs. Wise
gaylemwise@gmail.com
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Newsletter, September 13, 2010
Newsletter from Room 508
September 13, 2010
Dear Students and Families,
Thank you for doing such a fine job completing and turning in homework last week! Homework going home today is due next Monday, September 20th. Stop and see last week's wonderful book reports posted in the hallway. Let's set a goal for every child to complete and turn in homework this week!
I received no Scholastic book orders last week. I will send home new forms in October.
T-shirts: I have a few t-shirts, size small (about size 6), left from last year that you may purchase for $5.00. Last year's shirts look exactly the same as this year's. The price for this year's shirts is $7.00. Students may wear school t-shirts any day to school, as a change from uniforms. School t-shirts are great for fieldtrips, too. I encourage all students to purchase school t-shirts.
Thank you for getting your child in our room, by 7:45 AM so, he/she may eat breakfast, and be ready to start the day off right. All students at Helen Cordero are eligible for free breakfast and lunch. Please do not bring your child before 7:25 AM, for that is when Duties arrive. It is not safe for your child to be on school grounds before the Duties.
If you have not returned the "Permission to Include Your Child in Class Photos," I am sending home a final copy today. Please sign and return the form. I need to know, "yes" or "no," do you give permission for your child to be in photos.
To see our classroom blog, go to http://turtlezoop.blogspot.com
Please check your child's backpack daily. Make sure it is clean and free of things not appropriate for school. Students should not bring chips, candy, toys, electronics such as Game Boys, or drinks (other than water) to school. Students may bring water bottles with water inside and names outside.
Friday Jeans
On Fridays, students may
chose to wear jeans (without
holes), but still must wear
uniform shirts.
Please consider using the parent
pick up and drop off lane
mornings and afternoons instead
of parking and walking. It is safe,
and probably faster. Duties are there
in the mornings, beginning at 7:25, and either Ms. Laura or I stay with the children after school until they are picked up. Children not picked up by 2:10 are taken to the office to wait for parents.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Dear Families,
In yesterday's newsletter, I failed to fill in some blanks for you concerning dates and times of parenting classes. Below is the information you need.
Nurtured Heart Approach for parents training on Thursday, Sept. 16th from 5 pm to 7 pm in the Library. Child care will be provided.
Mind in the Making classes for our families will be starting next Wednesday, September 8th. This is a wonderful opportunity for our families. There will be two sessions, one in English and one in Spanish, both held at the same time. These will run every Wednesday through October 20th. Childcare will be provided.
Sincerely, Mrs. Wise
gaylemwise@gmail.com
September 13, 2010
Dear Students and Families,
Thank you for doing such a fine job completing and turning in homework last week! Homework going home today is due next Monday, September 20th. Stop and see last week's wonderful book reports posted in the hallway. Let's set a goal for every child to complete and turn in homework this week!
I received no Scholastic book orders last week. I will send home new forms in October.
T-shirts: I have a few t-shirts, size small (about size 6), left from last year that you may purchase for $5.00. Last year's shirts look exactly the same as this year's. The price for this year's shirts is $7.00. Students may wear school t-shirts any day to school, as a change from uniforms. School t-shirts are great for fieldtrips, too. I encourage all students to purchase school t-shirts.
Thank you for getting your child in our room, by 7:45 AM so, he/she may eat breakfast, and be ready to start the day off right. All students at Helen Cordero are eligible for free breakfast and lunch. Please do not bring your child before 7:25 AM, for that is when Duties arrive. It is not safe for your child to be on school grounds before the Duties.
If you have not returned the "Permission to Include Your Child in Class Photos," I am sending home a final copy today. Please sign and return the form. I need to know, "yes" or "no," do you give permission for your child to be in photos.
To see our classroom blog, go to http://turtlezoop.blogspot.com
Please check your child's backpack daily. Make sure it is clean and free of things not appropriate for school. Students should not bring chips, candy, toys, electronics such as Game Boys, or drinks (other than water) to school. Students may bring water bottles with water inside and names outside.
Friday Jeans
On Fridays, students may
chose to wear jeans (without
holes), but still must wear
uniform shirts.
Please consider using the parent
pick up and drop off lane
mornings and afternoons instead
of parking and walking. It is safe,
and probably faster. Duties are there
in the mornings, beginning at 7:25, and either Ms. Laura or I stay with the children after school until they are picked up. Children not picked up by 2:10 are taken to the office to wait for parents.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Dear Families,
In yesterday's newsletter, I failed to fill in some blanks for you concerning dates and times of parenting classes. Below is the information you need.
Nurtured Heart Approach for parents training on Thursday, Sept. 16th from 5 pm to 7 pm in the Library. Child care will be provided.
Mind in the Making classes for our families will be starting next Wednesday, September 8th. This is a wonderful opportunity for our families. There will be two sessions, one in English and one in Spanish, both held at the same time. These will run every Wednesday through October 20th. Childcare will be provided.
Sincerely, Mrs. Wise
gaylemwise@gmail.com
Monday, September 6, 2010
Newsletter, August 30, 2010
August 30, 2010
Dear Students and Families,
Homework goes home today, and is due Tuesday, September 7th. There is no school Monday because of the Labor Day holiday. Homework includes daily reading logs and weekly book reports. Parents, please help your child fill out the reading logs. But, students should write their own book reports. Students need to read, or be read to, at least 20 minutes every day.
Scholastic book order forms are going home today, and will go home about once a month. Scholastic offers a way to purchase low cost, grade level books for your child's home library. Please make checks payable to me when ordering books. Cash is okay, too. It takes about two weeks to receive orders.
Open House is Tuesday, September 31st, 5:30-6:6:30 for the Green Building (that's us!). Open House is a time to come see our beautiful school and meet your child's teachers and Helen Cordero's staff. Everyone is welcome.
The morning bell rings at 7:45. Students should be at their classroom, ready to go in and begin the day when the bell rings. Breakfast is served every morning to every student in the classroom. Breakfast is over at 8:00 A.M. It is very important for students to arrive on time, and to be at school every day possible! Missing a day, or being tardy, causes your child to miss important activities and learning.
Permission slips to photograph your child go home today. Photographs of lessons, activities and student work will be posted on my blog. No personal, student or family information will be posted. I believe you will enjoy seeing your kids in action in the classroom and around school. On my blog, you will find copies of class newsletters, important school news, dates, and events. You can join in with comments, too!
To see my blog, go to http://turtlezoop.blogspot.com
Check your child's backpack daily for important notes and papers.
You may call me at home if you have questions. The best time to reach me is between 4:30 and 6:00 PM on weekdays, or all day Saturday and Sunday. Please call no later than 9:00 PM.
I check my email everyday, so that is a great way to contact me also!
Sincerely, Mrs. Wise
gaylemwise@gmail.com
Dear Students and Families,
Homework goes home today, and is due Tuesday, September 7th. There is no school Monday because of the Labor Day holiday. Homework includes daily reading logs and weekly book reports. Parents, please help your child fill out the reading logs. But, students should write their own book reports. Students need to read, or be read to, at least 20 minutes every day.
Scholastic book order forms are going home today, and will go home about once a month. Scholastic offers a way to purchase low cost, grade level books for your child's home library. Please make checks payable to me when ordering books. Cash is okay, too. It takes about two weeks to receive orders.
Open House is Tuesday, September 31st, 5:30-6:6:30 for the Green Building (that's us!). Open House is a time to come see our beautiful school and meet your child's teachers and Helen Cordero's staff. Everyone is welcome.
The morning bell rings at 7:45. Students should be at their classroom, ready to go in and begin the day when the bell rings. Breakfast is served every morning to every student in the classroom. Breakfast is over at 8:00 A.M. It is very important for students to arrive on time, and to be at school every day possible! Missing a day, or being tardy, causes your child to miss important activities and learning.
Permission slips to photograph your child go home today. Photographs of lessons, activities and student work will be posted on my blog. No personal, student or family information will be posted. I believe you will enjoy seeing your kids in action in the classroom and around school. On my blog, you will find copies of class newsletters, important school news, dates, and events. You can join in with comments, too!
To see my blog, go to http://turtlezoop.blogspot.com
Check your child's backpack daily for important notes and papers.
You may call me at home if you have questions. The best time to reach me is between 4:30 and 6:00 PM on weekdays, or all day Saturday and Sunday. Please call no later than 9:00 PM.
I check my email everyday, so that is a great way to contact me also!
Sincerely, Mrs. Wise
gaylemwise@gmail.com
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Newsletter, August 25, 2010
Newsletter from Room 508
August 25, 2010
Dear Students and Families,
The school year is off to a great start. Students are already working hard in reading, writing and math. We have new reading curriculum named, "Treasures" designed to help students become good readers. We will use Everyday Math as our Math program. Our days will be filled from bell to bell with learning!
There is only one bell in the morning. It rings at 7:45. Students should be at their classroom, ready to go in and begin the day when the bell rings. Breakfast is served every morning to every student in the classroom. Breakfast is over at 8:00 A.M. It is very important for students to arrive on time, and to be at school every day possible! Missing a day, or being tardy, causes your child to miss important activities and learning.
Parents are welcome in our room any time we are there, unless we are having a test. Please, go to the office for a visitor's pass, then come spend time with us.
I have a classroom blog I hope you will follow. I will keep it updated about what is happening at our school, and in our classroom. After I have parental permission, I will post pictures of daily activities and student work. No personal, student or family information will be given on the blog, only classroom activities and lessons.
I hope you will enjoy seeing your kids in action in the classroom, and sharing our news with family and friends. You will also find copies of our newsletters there, and a copy of our daily schedule.
To see our blog, go to: http://turtlezoop.blogspot.com
Homework will go home on the first day of the week, usually Mondays, beginning September 30th. Homework will be due the following Monday, or first day of the week. Homework will include daily reading logs and weekly book reports. Parents, please help fill out reading logs, but students should write their own book reports. Students are expected to read, or be read to, at least 20 minutes every day. Reading at home will help your child succeed in school.
Here are some homework tips:
Set a certain time and place for homework to be done.
Keep the television and video games off until it is completed.
Keep homework, and a supply of pencils, erasers, markers, crayons and scissors in a special place.
Help your child read directions. Ask if he or she understands what to do.
Parents, check your child's work.
Parents, check your child's backpack daily for important notes and papers.
You may call me at home if you have questions. To reach me, call between 4:30 and 6:00 PM on week days, or any time Saturday and Sunday. Please call no later than 9:00 PM.
I check my email everyday, so that is a great way to contact me also!
Sincerely, Mrs. Wise
August 25, 2010
Dear Students and Families,
The school year is off to a great start. Students are already working hard in reading, writing and math. We have new reading curriculum named, "Treasures" designed to help students become good readers. We will use Everyday Math as our Math program. Our days will be filled from bell to bell with learning!
There is only one bell in the morning. It rings at 7:45. Students should be at their classroom, ready to go in and begin the day when the bell rings. Breakfast is served every morning to every student in the classroom. Breakfast is over at 8:00 A.M. It is very important for students to arrive on time, and to be at school every day possible! Missing a day, or being tardy, causes your child to miss important activities and learning.
Parents are welcome in our room any time we are there, unless we are having a test. Please, go to the office for a visitor's pass, then come spend time with us.
I have a classroom blog I hope you will follow. I will keep it updated about what is happening at our school, and in our classroom. After I have parental permission, I will post pictures of daily activities and student work. No personal, student or family information will be given on the blog, only classroom activities and lessons.
I hope you will enjoy seeing your kids in action in the classroom, and sharing our news with family and friends. You will also find copies of our newsletters there, and a copy of our daily schedule.
To see our blog, go to: http://turtlezoop.blogspot.com
Homework will go home on the first day of the week, usually Mondays, beginning September 30th. Homework will be due the following Monday, or first day of the week. Homework will include daily reading logs and weekly book reports. Parents, please help fill out reading logs, but students should write their own book reports. Students are expected to read, or be read to, at least 20 minutes every day. Reading at home will help your child succeed in school.
Here are some homework tips:
Set a certain time and place for homework to be done.
Keep the television and video games off until it is completed.
Keep homework, and a supply of pencils, erasers, markers, crayons and scissors in a special place.
Help your child read directions. Ask if he or she understands what to do.
Parents, check your child's work.
Parents, check your child's backpack daily for important notes and papers.
You may call me at home if you have questions. To reach me, call between 4:30 and 6:00 PM on week days, or any time Saturday and Sunday. Please call no later than 9:00 PM.
I check my email everyday, so that is a great way to contact me also!
Sincerely, Mrs. Wise
Dragonfly that visited our yard
This most beautiful insect came to visit us. Mark and I enjoyed it's company for several minutes, then it was gone.
On A Dragonfly's Wing
I am the rainbow on a dragonfly's wing
Offering of my all to pink wings that sing
Thy Pink Pixie, please dry my moist tears
Night approaches, creating my worst fears
So, encompassed by wings of Pink delight
I-Rainbow-shimmer & shine even tonight
Myself and the Sun God Ra light the land
The power of our beauty is in God's hand
Lighting up all things great, heaven wrought
Those in love simply stare,... lost in thought
Even when that time comes for the last fling
I am still the rainbow on a dragonfly's wing
JD
On A Dragonfly's Wing
I am the rainbow on a dragonfly's wing
Offering of my all to pink wings that sing
Thy Pink Pixie, please dry my moist tears
Night approaches, creating my worst fears
So, encompassed by wings of Pink delight
I-Rainbow-shimmer & shine even tonight
Myself and the Sun God Ra light the land
The power of our beauty is in God's hand
Lighting up all things great, heaven wrought
Those in love simply stare,... lost in thought
Even when that time comes for the last fling
I am still the rainbow on a dragonfly's wing
JD
Sunday, August 15, 2010
September 21st, Day of Peace
http://internationaldayofpeace.org/
The time to make peace is now. Do you have ideas for a first grade class peace project?
The time to make peace is now. Do you have ideas for a first grade class peace project?
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Outside our school, Helen Cordero Primary
Room 508 is just about ready!
Friday, August 6, 2010
Chapter books for First Grade read alouds?
Does anyone has suggestions for chapter books to read to a First Grade ESL class? I have done Beverly Cleary, Junie B. Jones, and Charlotte's Web. I want something different. It needs to have humor and value, and can't make me cry more than once.
August 6, 2010
Over the last couple weeks, I have spent several hours in my classroom organizing and getting rid of stuff. It is amazing how much stuff a teacher can accumulate in just a few years. Lots of my stuff came from fellow teachers, garage sales and thrift stores, and the rest is school property. When you teach all subjects, as most primary teachers do, it takes lots of stuff.
Yet, you must be organized and know where things are, otherwise things go unused, and sometimes are wasted. My artistic/eclectic ways of thinking tend to see great potential in things better left in the bargain box in someone else's space. At home, I have adopted the following policy: If I bring in an item, some other item must go out. I cleaned off my bookshelf a few days ago, and have 24 credits after bringing in a new bathing suit, 2 plants (for the yard), a backpack, and a hat.
It's time to use this same policy for my classroom. I gave away 3 trunk loads of stuff last week, mostly books. I set myself at zero credits right now, which means something has to leave the room before I bring in ANYTHING new.
As far as books, I have decided to only collect certain authors or topics. Here's a partial list: Clifford, Little Critter, Dr Suess, Henry and Mudge, Biscuit, Dora, Kevin Henkes, Seasons, Senses, Weather, biographies, ABC's, diversity/acceptance, Jobs, Dinosaurs, Cultures and Traditions, Fairytales and Fables, Poetry, Songs, Ted Arnold, Eric Carle, Leo Lionni, Ezra Jack Keats, Doreen Cronin, Mo Willems, New Mexico. Books for read alouds need pictures that can be easily seen by all my students sitting in the floor in front of me. The only exceptions are the chapter books I will read from daily.
Yet, you must be organized and know where things are, otherwise things go unused, and sometimes are wasted. My artistic/eclectic ways of thinking tend to see great potential in things better left in the bargain box in someone else's space. At home, I have adopted the following policy: If I bring in an item, some other item must go out. I cleaned off my bookshelf a few days ago, and have 24 credits after bringing in a new bathing suit, 2 plants (for the yard), a backpack, and a hat.
It's time to use this same policy for my classroom. I gave away 3 trunk loads of stuff last week, mostly books. I set myself at zero credits right now, which means something has to leave the room before I bring in ANYTHING new.
As far as books, I have decided to only collect certain authors or topics. Here's a partial list: Clifford, Little Critter, Dr Suess, Henry and Mudge, Biscuit, Dora, Kevin Henkes, Seasons, Senses, Weather, biographies, ABC's, diversity/acceptance, Jobs, Dinosaurs, Cultures and Traditions, Fairytales and Fables, Poetry, Songs, Ted Arnold, Eric Carle, Leo Lionni, Ezra Jack Keats, Doreen Cronin, Mo Willems, New Mexico. Books for read alouds need pictures that can be easily seen by all my students sitting in the floor in front of me. The only exceptions are the chapter books I will read from daily.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
The Planning Stages
As the new school year quickly approaches, I will share my steps in planning. Maybe this will be useful to new teachers. Just remember, we all have butterflies in our stomachs sooner or later.
Count Down!
Four weeks from today the new school year begins! Anxious students return to the classroom on August 18th, arms loaded with crisp new school supplies. Their teachers return the week before, excited to set up their classrooms once again.
I created this blog to keep in touch with my students and their families, and to share with them our daily experiences. I will post lesson plans, a weekly newsletter, photos of the class, homework assignments, and topics of community interest. This will be a window into our classroom, informative and surprising.
This is our school website: http://www.aps.edu/aps/HelenCordero/Index.html
I created this blog to keep in touch with my students and their families, and to share with them our daily experiences. I will post lesson plans, a weekly newsletter, photos of the class, homework assignments, and topics of community interest. This will be a window into our classroom, informative and surprising.
This is our school website: http://www.aps.edu/aps/HelenCordero/Index.html
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