Dear Parents,

The school bells are ringing again, and I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you and your child to Ridge Road Elementary School!  I look forward to an exciting year of teaching and a great year of learning. The next nine months will be a time of growth and significant learning for your child.  I look forward to sharing these wonderful times and helping your child through the challenging ones.  I am excited about making this a successful and fun year for your child!

First, let me begin by telling you a little about myself.  I am married and have a 15 year-old daughter.  I will never forget when I had to send her off for her first day of kindergarten.  We were all experiencing a big adjustment at home as I am sure you are doing at this same.  It is not easy to let your child out in the big world without you.  The good news is that children adjust and they adjust quickly.  This is my 15th year teaching at the early primary level.  I have taught 13 years in kindergarten, 1 year in third grade, and 1 year in first grade.  My educational backgroud includes a BA in Elementary Education and a Masters of Science degree in Reading, certified to teach grades Kindergarten through 12.

As a parent, I know that you are your child's first and most important teacher.  I encourage and welcome you to become actively involved in your child's education.  To ensure this success, it is vital that we keep the lines of communication open.  I welcome any questions and concerns you may have as the school year progresses.  Please feel free to contact my at school or by e-mail.   Also, our class would enjoy and benefit from from your expertise.   If there is a craft or an activity that you would like to share with the class regarding our theme for the week, please call or e-mail me so that we can make arragements in our daily schedule.  I would also like a parent/parents to volunteer to be our room mother or father.  Our room mother (s) will assist with classroom parties, book orders, and special art activities.  If you are interested in being part of our day, please contact me.  

Now that you know something about me, I look forward to meeting you at Ridge Road's Open House on the evening of September 20, 2011 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm. 

Thank you!  I look forward to a great year with your children.