Hello Falcon Families,

As we wrap-up the 5th week...yes, we have already been in school for 5 weeks...routines are beginning to take hold in the classroom and on the campus.  We have started several traditions this year (e.g. playing music to start and end our day, having a quarterly pep assembly/spirit week, the creation of a student principal advisory board, etc...) that are focused on creating a positive, motivating, and safe environment for the students and staff.  We have staff training and planning in both Beyond Textbooks and Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS) to ensure engaging lessons and safe, positive learning environments. Overall, the "feel" of the campus is very positive and energetic.  

On the home-front, we encourage you to continue to collaborate with the teachers and talk to your students about their assignments.  One of the most effective factors for improving student achievement is a strong support mechanism at home. A couple strategies that help students are designated homework time and location (a location free from distractions). Another strategy is for the parent/guardian to ask specific questions about their student's learning (e.g. "Tell me two things you learned in Social Studies today, What was the hardest thing you did today, Tell me about the best part of your day," etc...).  We all know the typical answer we get when we ask "what did you do today in school?" "Nothing." Asking more directed questions usually leads to more in depth answers.  

Have a great weekend!

Respectfully,

James Carrick - Principal