I am a teacher who believes in creating life-long learners. It is extremely important to me that my students look forward to coming to school each day. I want children to leave our classroom every day excited and wondering what they will be doing tomorrow. Above all, I want each student to feel that they can, and will, be successful in first grade. I tell my students that they are not allowed to say the words "I can't" because although their assignments will be challenging at times, I will never give them something that they are unable to do. I expect one thing from all of my learners; that they always put forth their personal best efforts.

Our classroom is a special place. It is a place where children should feel valued and free to take risks. We are on this first grade journey together and it is important that we are all kind, encouraging and supportive of one another. Each one of us has different strengths, needs, opinions and ideas. If we work together there is nothing we cannot accomplish. It is also true that we all learn best in different ways and at our own pace. That is why we will not always be working on the same things. Sometimes we will be working in small groups or with a partner. Sometimes we will be working by ourselves or with the teacher. We need to respect each other's individuality and unique learning styles. We need to remember that we are not in a race, but on a journey. In addition, we need the support of our parents. Please know that parents and teachers are partners in a child's education. I hope that parents will always come to me with questions or concerns. It is important that we communicate openly and honestly with one another. Talk to your child about their day and make sure that they are feeling supported, confident and happy. It is the key to a successful year for your child. Lastly, let's be sure to have fun! We will all be learning, making discoveries, and experiencing new things together. No two days will ever be the same. We need to get messy, laugh a lot, be good friends, explore together and stop to smell the roses!

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