Mrs. Girardi, 3/4 One-Day G.A.T.E.

Hello Parents, Students & Teachers,

I would like to welcome you to Owens Primary and the One-Day G.A.T.E. program for the 2008-2009 school year.  We have many interesting and enriching experiences planned and I am looking forward to working with all of my new and returning students.  The information below will answer some of the “burning” questions you may have about our program.

District/School Policies, Procedures, Expectations

By now, you will have received the annual District discipline code booklet from your home school.  All students are expected to observe the rules for a safe and productive school year in their home school, as well as at Owens Primary.  As we are a "Uniform" school, we expect students to be dressed appropriately.

Program, Activities, Grading

Your child will come to Owens Primary one day a week.  All activities are intended to extend and enrich your child’s knowledge and experiences.  There will be no letter grade given for work but completion of assignments and the ability to work in an orderly matter and make the most of their time will be expected.  Student work will be sent home periodically and parents will receive a progress report during BCSD grading periods.

In One-Day G.A.T.E. we focus quite heavily on science, integrating the “Scientific Process”, learning about equipment, science safety and a variety of experiments and investigations.   Activities and assignments will be planned to help the students think and work creatively, analytically and independently.  This year my students will study areas associated with Oceanography, Astronomy, Ecosysytems, Matter and Electricity.  An enjoyable study trip related to one of our science themes will be planned for some time this year. 

I will also provide instruction in Spanish, art history, geography, language arts, physical education and technology.  Students will have the opportunity to do research and explore their individual interests in our Computer Lab. We spend approximately 40 minutes a day in Computer Lab.

Most importantly- Students will be taught how to think, act, and learn like “scholars”. Parents, this is an integral part of our program and you’ll find a list of the Scholarly Attributes attached.

Homework (None – unless classwork is not completed.)

Attendance

For the maximum benefits of our One-Day Program, regular attendance is required.  If your child will be absent, please call the Magnet Office at Owens Primary.

Parents, I am looking forward to an exciting year with your children.  Please feel free to call (631-5420), write notes or email (girardik@bcsd.com) if you have any further questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Karen Girardi