Dear Parents:

Welcome to the new school year and to fifth grade! I am delighted to have your child in my class. Periodically, you should check this site for a current newsletter; it will outline what we are covering in the curriculum and other events that occur in the classroom.

On Tuesday, September 13, we will have Back to School Night for all Caughlin Ranch parents at 7 p.m. I will give a short presentation about the upcoming year, and you will receive information about standards, fifth grade curriculum, field trips, policies, and procedures. You will also have the opportunity to sign up for a fall conference time and to be of assistance in many ways with your child's class.

Fifth grade is an exciting year in school! Your children will be asked to incorporate many higher-level thinking skills and stretch their brains in different ways as they encounter a more demanding curriculum. They will also become more independent at managing their own schoolwork. At the same time, fifth graders are still adorable, curious children, and they will need your help and support in many ways. I hope we can work together to make this a terrific year for your child.

Meanwhile, please review my policies and other information at the following links:

1. Class rules, with accompanying consequences and rewards.
2. Homework policy
3. Late homework policy
4. Attendance policy
5. My grading scale
6. Redo policy
7. Supply list

Please don't hesitate to call me at school if you have any questions. The best time to reach me is between 8 and 9 a.m. or 3 and 4 p.m. Or, e-mail me at knmccormick@washoe.k12.nv.us.  I check my e-mail every day.

Sincerely,
Kit McCormick

Website of the Month: Learn about and play the Mesoamerican Ballgame, the first team sport in human history. This interactive website teaches about the sport of many pre-Columbian cultures that gave new meaning to the saying "winner takes all."