Friday, September 7, 2012

From the Office of the Principal

Thank You moms and dads for assisting your children in having a very positive first week at Grainwood.  I would image your students are tired, as they transition back into a school schedule and begin their new learning for the year!  Here's a quick update on a few new endeavors at GW to start our year:

New Computers - This summer, district technology staff installed new computers in classrooms and offices throughout the building. This is a part of the district's effort to upgrade technology and equip teachers for 21st century learning. The new computers will allow teachers to utilize the full power of SMARTBoard and online Math Expressions and National Geographic science curriculum.

Math Curriculum - This year students in grades K-5 in Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools will be using a new math curriculum, Math Expressions. Last year, two Grainwood teachers implemented this curriculum and have been providing training for all teachers. This curriculum will provide students with more rigor and online components to enhance instruction. Grainwood will be hosting a different version of its Math Night on Thursday, November 1 to help explain the new curriculum to families.  Stay tuned for more details!

School Forms Due - For the well-being of your child, please remember to turn in your emergency information as soon as possible. If your child becomes ill or injured at school, this information is critical for our health room and office staff. If there are any legal proceedings regarding the welfare of your child, please make sure our office has a copy of the appropriate legal papers as well.

Early Release - In order to provide professional development opportunities for our staff, five early release days have been built into the district calendar again this year. Please be aware that September 26 (W), November 8 (TH), January 24 (TH), March 28 (TH) and June 6 (FR) will be early release days for students.

Lastly, ask your child about our NEW CARES Hero that was introduced at our All School Meeting Friday morning.  CARES will continue to be our focus on building and sustaining core expectations for student and adult behavior throught the school! 

Happy First Week Everyone!

Principal Patrick