Dear Parents,

Welcome to Fifth Grade! My name is Ms. O’Connell and I am happy to introduce myself as your child’s 5th grade teacher here at Saint Simon School. I want you to know how pleased I am to have your child in my class. Fifth grade is an exciting and challenging year. I will do my best to keep you informed of his or her progress, as I feel that close communication between home and school is of utmost importance in education today. With your help, we can be partners in your child’s education.

My teaching begins with making your child feel at home in our classroom. I have gone to great lengths to make our room a comfortable and welcoming place that will facilitate a safe, secure feeling to ensure academic success.

You will receive classroom updates throughout the year to let you know what we will be doing in class, upcoming events, and homework assignments. Students enjoy the updates, but it is also a very useful tool for parents. Please take time to look over the updates with your child. The updates will be instrumental in keeping up to date on what’s happening in our class and facilitate questioning your child about his or her day.

I have always found parents to be supportive of good classroom behavior to ensure that their children receive a quality education. In order for learning to take place, children must behave so that I can teach and students can learn. I cannot allow any child’s misbehavior to prevent me from teaching or another student from learning. Students in 5th grade are expected to respect others and their property, listen attentively, use appropriate manners, and work productively as a group while learning and having fun!

I encourage you to contact me anytime with questions or concerns you might have. Please communicate with me if you identify your child is having academic, social, physical, or emotional problems. If your child should become discouraged, notify me so that we can discover the source of the problem. You may call the school, send a note, or email me at loconnell@stsimon.org - You can also view any updates online through the school website.

Your help and support are needed in making your child’s best year in school. I am looking forward to a great year! I consider it a great privilege and responsibility to be your child's teacher this year and look forward to working closely with you and your child. Thank you in advance for your continued support and cooperation.

Sincerely,
Ms. O’Connell