ᖇEEᑕE~4Tᕼ GᖇᗩᗪE

Reece
4th Grade
Mr. Malone
Age 9

Reece is having a great year so far. We had his parent/teacher conferences on Friday, and Mr. Malone had so many nice things to say. He mentioned how well he stays on task and doesn't give up on his work in the classroom. I had to joke that this is the exact opposite issue we have with Math homework at home. Although it really isn't a joke. Of course, as frustrating as it can be as a parent to deal with certain behaviors, it's better we deal with them and not the poor teacher. Mr. Malone told us that the math these kids are learning (common core) is easily 2 grade levels above 4th grade math. My opinion about this "common core" stuff is still being formed...it's too new to me to form a firm opinion. I never struggled with math until algebra...so I can't put myself in the shoes of students who need to know the "why" of early year math. I do have the experience of working with special education kids ages 3rd through 5th grade...and mostly in math. Having multiple ways of teaching math can be good...but at what point is it confusing??? Oh well.

Reece has been given all 3s and 4s (4 being the highest) this first quarter. He has 4s in Art, Computers, and STEM (I can't remember exactly was STEM stands for, but its a specials class that only the kids that aren't behind in other areas receive. Science, spanish...it can vary from quarter to quarter.)

Reece received 3s in Writing, Literacy, Media, and Music.

"Reece is an excellent student. He is very focused in class and is constantly trying to do his best. He has a lot of talent with catching clues in text and inferencing new ideas." ~ Mr. Malone (Literacy)

This year they've started a new type of evaluation. It's called "Habit of a Scholar." They are graded in 5 categories.

1. Executive Skills
2. Perseverance
3. Enthusiasm
4. Compassion
5. Teamwork

It's also graded 1-4, except they use letters...

B(1)=Beginning

D(2)=Developing

M(3)=Meeting

L(4)=Leading

Mr. Malone gave Reece an "L" all across the board which would configure into a perfect 4.0.

"Reece is extremely organized. Reece manages his time well and gives his best on assignments. Reece is constantly reflecting on the objectives and learning to check if he is completing assignments to the best of his abilities. He demonstrates a very mature learner on a daily basis and leads the way for other students by demonstrating focus at a high level. Good job Reece! Reece does an excellent job with sticking to the task. He will continue to work through his challenges and does not give up. Reece maintains focus for long periods of time. Good job!" ~ Mr. Malone (Habit of a Scholar/Homeroom)

Sometimes I read these comments from teachers and wonder 'is this my kid they are talking about?'...I know it probably similar for most parents. Either way, Go Reece! Keep up the amazing work!