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MESSAGE TO PARENTS (1/25)

WELCOME NEW PARENTS

1/25/10

I am looking forward to meeting you on Thursday night at the open house. Your student receives an extra Paynter Point for each parent or step-parent that they drag out. DON’T FORGET TO SIGN THE SHEET WHEN YOU COME. Points are only awarded to students who have parents sign.

I know many of you do not see the importance of meeting new teachers each semester, but I would like to encourage you to come. This is not a time to talk about grades (although at this stage that is not an issue), but more a time for me to outline to you the program I have planned and to learn about ways you can keep informed and help your son or daughter succeed in my class. I have never failed a student who did all the work, but I will fail students who don’t do the work.

HOPE TO SEE YOU THURSDAY.

Homework – THEY ALWAYS HAVE HOMEWORK. Even if there is nothing due the next day they have 15-20 pages of reading a nigh (QRA sheet is to be initialed by a parent or teacher), the weekly vocabulary to consider, and many times some on-going paper or presentation that will be due in the future. Ask them about these and where they are on getting it all done.

JUNIOR PARENTS – This is a very important year for your student – especially for the college bound. Although colleges will expect good grades to continue during the senior year, this is the last year most will use to determine acceptance. School needs to be job #1 this year more than any other.

As students near the finish line they need to speed up, not slow down. Make sure your student attends class. Missing school will greatly hinder student success. You will serve your student well by frequently viewing this site and the school site. Don’t miss any parent messages and check out the “What’s Up” and “Major Due Date” section regularly. It can be a lifeline.

SENIOR PARENTS – Every year I have senior parents who take a hands-off approach to the senior year – let them sink or swim on their own. While there are some rational reasons for this, it may also result in your son or daughter not graduating. If you choose not to be part of the process that is your choice, but remember that I will not be able to work a miracle two weeks before graduation, which is when I hear from some of you for the first time. I also will not be able to help your child maintain a grade that will keep them eligible for Bright Futures if they do not work. I will work with students and parents, but they must also work. English IV is not a free ride.