Harris Elementary School
January / February 2018 English Version
Principal News
Dear Harris Families-
There is no question about it, bullying is definitely a hot topic in education today. With bullying, I have always found that by educating students on what a bully is and how to handle the bully effectively are the ideal ways to stop bullying now and in the future. The other day I came across the following article on the Internet and wanted to share the information with everyone.
“Dealing With Bullies”
Margaret Durham, M.Ed. LPC, NCSC
Bullying is a serious problem in American schools. Whether it is a smirk or a punch, bullying can leave permanent emotional injuries. Parents should be aware of these facts about bullying.
Knowing what bullying looks like. Most bullying is verbal, not physical, like teasing, name-calling, and spreading hurtful rumors.
Bullies enjoy bullying. New research shows that bullies enjoy the power of bullying. They often rationalize their acts by saying the victims provoked them in some way.
Children “go along to get along”. Classmates don’t usually defend the victims of bullying because they do not want to be the bully’s next victim.
Victims don’t usually speak up. Children who are bullied usually suffer in silence because they feel nothing can be done to help them.
What does a school bully prevention program need to include? Programs that educate children and focus on a positive school environment are the most effective. Bullying prevention efforts require that school staff and parents are involved and supportive of the program. Clear rules and expectations related to the social climate of the school need to be in place and communicated to everyone in the school (teachers, cafeteria, secretaries, etc.). Schools are aware of bullying and are always looking for ways to reduce or eliminate the problem. The safety of students is the primary objective of schools when it comes to bullying.
There are ways for parents to help as well. Teach your children to:
Be assertive. One method is to practice the “cool look”. Have your child practice standing with their hands in their pockets, rocking back and forth on their heels, and putting a cool grin on their face. Tell then, “When kids start to tease you, put on your “cool look”. Keep the look going while they tease. As soon as they get through putting you down, use a one-liner statement such as, “Thanks for sharing that with me.”
Ignore bullies’ provocations. Teach your child to turn around on the last word and walk away fast without looking back at the teasing child. Bullies thrive on the results they get by hurting others. Help your children know that they can deprive bullies of the satisfaction by not openly reacting to their taunts and insults.
Be a friend. Stress to your children the importance of looking out for their friends and supporting students who are being bullied. Encourage them to notify an adult when they know a child who is being seriously bullied, either physically or verbally.
Feel good about yourself. Children who feel good about themselves and show it aren’t as likely to become victims of bullies, who prefer easier targets. Build their self-esteem by giving them genuine praise and love.
Be available. Let your children know that you are always available to talk. The way to “tease proof” a child is to give him/her skills to be able to handle the teasing.
What a gift a parent can give a child, to know that you can send out your child into the world with skills to be “teased proofed”.
Please take a minute to chat with your child about the information from the article. Education will be the single most effective means as to solving any bullying issue. Working together we can ensure that bullying never has a place at Harris Elementary. Always inform your child’s classroom teacher or I of any instances that you feel may be bullying at Harris.
Thanks,
Bill
AzMERIT Information
Dear Harris Elementary Community,
Every spring our students take state assessments. As most of you are aware, the State of Arizona adopted a new assessment three years ago. Here is information about the testing changes and ways that you can learn more.
AZMERIT testing: The state of Arizona has moved from AIMS testing to AZMERIT, or Arizona’s Measurement of Educational Readiness to Inform Teaching. This was selected because of the new standards that our State Board adopted back in 2010. This test is designed to let teachers, students and parents know how each child is doing, and to indicate whether he or she is on track for college and career readiness. This year, we will be using the computer-based version of the AZMERIT. In order to accommodate all 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students as well as our technology needs, a special schedule was created. Harris students will be testing between April 9th and April 27th.
Here are a few frequently asked questions:
Will anyone take the AIMS test?
Our 4th grade students will take the AIMS Science test. The test will be given on Thursday, April 5th to all fourth grade students. There are two sections so we anticipate fourth graders will be testing the majority of the morning.
Who will take AZMERIT?
Arizona public school students in grades 3 through high school will take AZMERIT. Students in grades 3 through 6 will take assessments in English Language Arts(including writing) and mathematics at their grade level.
What does a test session look like?
All students will take the computer-based AZMERIT test. The test is untimed but we anticipate each section to take approximately 45-90 minutes but your child will have as much time as needed to complete the assessment (school day).
When will my child be tested?
Thursday, April 5th 4th grade AIMS Science Monday, April 9th 4th & 6th grade AZMERIT Writing Assessment Tuesday, April 10th 3rd & 5th grade AZMERIT Writing Assessment Wednesday, April 11th AzMERIT Writing Assessment make up testing Tuesday, April 17th 4th & 6th grade ELA Assessment part 1 Wednesday, April 18th 3rd & 5th grade ELA Assessment part 1 Thursday, April 19th 4th & 6th grade Math Assessment part 1 Friday, April 20th 3rd & 5th grade Math Assessment part 1 Monday, April 23rd 4th & 6th grade ELA Assessment part 2 Tuesday, April 24th 3rd & 5th grade ELA Assessment part 2 Wednesday, April 25th 4th & 6th grade Math Assessment part 2 Thursday, April 26th 3rd & 5th grade Math Assessment part 2 Friday, April 27th AzMerit ELA & Math Assessment make up testing
What if my son/daughter is absent?
Make up days have been built into the schedule. Teachers will notify administration of students who are absent. Please avoid scheduling medical appointments or any out of town visits during testing days. Also, make certain that your child gets plenty of sleep the night before the test; and that he or she eats a healthy breakfast and arrives at school on time. Once a test session has begun we are unable to stop the session so students who are in the middle of testing will not be able to leave early for the day. If students go home sick that testing session will be submitted as is so please keep students home if they are sick and we will utilize make up days.
What is Harris doing to prepare my child for this test?
All 3rd through 6th grade classes will have opportunities on computers in order to become familiar with the student testing portal, the types of questions they will see on the test, and the tools that they will be manipulating in writing, reading and math. The state has created a website which also allows you to access sample questions: http://www.azed.gov/assessment/azmerit/
Teachers are being proactive to help students demonstrate growth, they are using data to guide instruction and as teams are planning intervention and enrichment lessons to fit the needs of all Harris students. Teachers have taken many professional development opportunities to learn and grow and we have invited respected members of the district and educational community to participate in instructional rounds, give instructional feedback and tailor staff development based on these findings.
I hope that having this information is helpful. Please do not hesitate to contact your classroom teacher and/or myself with any and all questions.
Thanks,
Bill Roth
Principal
Harris Elementary School
Pre-K News
Happy New Year 2018! We started 2018 with an Outer Space literacy theme learning about the Sun, Moon, Stars, and Planets. Our classroom has transformed into a Space Station complete with a rocket ship, astronaut uniforms, light table science with magnets, experimenting with volcano eruption and air speed travel. Preschool learns best by moving our bodies to space songs, games and hands-on activities.
In January the alphabet and their sounds are reviewed as well as improving our writing skills. New math skills include counting backwards from 10-0 and the shapes Octagon and Hexagon.
Next month we continue studying about Outer Space and Dinosaurs.
Kindergarten News
Happy New Year from Kindergarten! We hope everyone had a restful winter break. This month we explored properties of fabric and had a lot of fun on Fabric Day! We also began our Community Helpers unit and enjoyed our visit from the Arizona Farm Bureau where we learned about the many jobs of a farmer. Winter has been an interesting topic to find out about – how it differs from Arizona to other parts of our country, what animals do in winter and had a blast making Arizona snow! Keep practicing those sight words and number concepts at home.
As always, if you have any questions, please let us know.
~Your Kindergarten Team
1st Grade News
2nd Grade News
It's winter in Arizona and 2nd grade is loving the beautiful weather and the opportunity for a fresh start. We have so many engaging activities happening this quarter and hopefully you can take the time to talk to your child about school. Your support models to your family the value of education.
In Social Studies, we had rich discussions regarding Martin Luther King, Jr. and his impact on our nation. Alternatively, Science is due to be filled with everything butterfly! Our students will get to observe the life cycle of these amazing creatures, starting with live larvae. Look for information regarding our annual field trip to Butterfly Wonderland.
Moving to Math, we get to learn new subtraction strategies this quarter. Yes, we are not subtracting like most of us are used to by using the standard procedures. We teach students a few developmentally appropriate ways to subtract so that a student can find a method that makes sense to them. Our students will enter the workforce filled with jobs that are not in existence at this time and our Math curriculum is preparing our kids for careers that will require a high amount of problem solving.
Finally, English Language Arts this quarter will be filled with informational texts related to penguins, whales, etc. We will be comparing texts, finding the main idea and topics of our passges, and focusing on text features. Of course, we will also get to read some great Literature that will compliment our non fiction stories. Please continue to read to your child and have them read to you. Ask questions while reading with your child and get them excited about settling into a good book. Thanks for all you do to support your family and our school.
3rd Grade News
Third grade is hoping that everyone had a very enjoyable and relaxing winter break. We were very anxious to get the third quarter started and move forward with our curriculum. In math we are starting a unit on measurement and fractions. The students will be able to build fractions as parts of a whole. They will also be able to locate equivalent fractions and compare fractions with the same denominator. In our intervention groups we will be reviewing money and time. Please take the time to help out your child out home with counting money and telling time on an analog clock. Have your child count your change or money that you get back while out in the community.
In social studies we will be working on a unit studying about government. The students will be learning about the three branches of our government and what duties they perform. In reading, we will be working on a story titled, The Armadillo From Amarillo. Geography and poetry will be integrated in this story. The students will be introduced to various types of poetry and even write a little of their own as well.
Please have your child read independently at home and work on math facts. The AZ Merit will be here quickly and we are busy getting these students prepared, so that they will be able to perform to the best of their abilities and feel confident with how they will perform.
4th Grade News
5th Grade News
Welcome Back to 5th Grade!
We have made through the first semester of the year! We hope everyone enjoyed the break. As we start the new year we have been reviewing policies and procedures with the students. We have been practicing the policies and procedures so that the new year can run smoothly. We are halfway to 6th grade!
Please make sure to discuss with your students the importance of always doing their best work and turning their assignments in on time. This will be a noticeable change for this quarter, as we are going to be working on responsibility, accountability, and time management. This helps them be ready for the years to come.
We will start having homework this quarter. So please look for daily work on Monday-Thursday. This will be assignments that will support what we are working on in class. Thank you in advance for your help with this.
ELA: We will be starting to work on Story Elements and Cause and Effect. These are both difficult concepts. They will need to understand the vocabulary and how to apply the concepts to classwork and assessments.
Social Studies: We will be covering: The Constitutional Conventions, The Three Branches of the Government, and The Bill of Rights. I am looking forward to starting a new unit and the students usually enjoy learning about how the government works.
Math: We are beginning this quarter working with double digit multiplication with and without decimals. Then we will be moving into long division with double digit divisors, with and without decimals.
Science: Our Force and Motion kit should be arriving any day now. In that unit we will be experimenting the causes and effects of different forces and motion. We will also be building cars out of K’nex. While we are waiting for those to arrive, we will be delving deeper into the solar system, learning about different planets as well as creating our own planet.
**5th graders may be participating in a Science Fair this year. If we do participate, more information will be coming soon.
6th Grade News
Social Studies
We will be studying the Ancient Egypt and continuing on to the Renaissance Era.
English Language Arts (ELA)
We began a literature study with the book Holes. This will incorporate all of the reading skills we have been practicing so far this year.
Math
We began positive and negative numbers in January and will continue on to basic algebra expressions. This is new in sixth grade so we will spend time focusing on the concept of algebraic thinking.
Science
In science, sixth grade will be focusing on cells; plant and animal. We will also be learning how to care for and use a microscope. This will continue our plant unit.
Library News
We are working on comparing and contrasting versions of fairy tales this month. So far we have learned about "The Little Red Hen" and "The Gingerbread Man."
First Grade:
We are loving our Laura Numeroff book study. We are becoming familiar with all of her books, including "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie."
Second Grade:
We have learned about Wilma Rudolph and Ruby Bridges so far and will continue to learn more about famous African Americans who had a positive impact in the 1960's.
Third Grade:
We are learning about Martin Luther King Jr. this month which will take us into our biography unit later on.
Fourth Grade:
We loved reading "Henry's Freedom Box" to discuss slavery in the 1800's.
Fifth & Sixth Grade:
We are reading "Six Dots" which is a great read about the importance of braille. Once we are finished, we will be practicing using braille by writing our names in it.
Battle of the Books:
Congratulations to Jassir, Daniel, and Miguel for winning their second battle in a row!! Way to go!
Student Council News
We will be selling Smencils during lunch before Valentine's Day for $1 on February 6th through the 13th. Our Cookie Dough Fundraiser will start February 26th.
PE News
We have been having a fun time in PE class, playing soccer and playing a game called Cross the River to work on teamwork and communication.
Coming up K-6 will be working on basketball skills.
K-2 grade will also be practicing climbing the rock wall and throwing and catching. 3-6 grade will start our Track and Field unit in February.
The kids enjoyed having a guest teacher, Julius the Yo-Yo man. He taught the kids some yo-yo skills and tricks.
Jump Rope for Heart will take place the week of February 12-16 during PE class. This year the theme is Scare Squad and your child can earn monsters that “come to life” with the app on your smart phone. More information will be sent home soon.
Remember to wear tennis shoes on your PE day.
1,2,3…we love P.E.!
Math News
A great way to build number sense is for students to calculate math mentally. Mental math encourages students to build on their knowledge about numbers and numerical relationships. When they cannot rely on memorized procedures or hold large quantities in their heads, students are forced to think more flexibly and efficiently, and to consider alternate problem solving strategies. (Parrish, 2010)
Two simple activities that involves mental math are:
The Answer is…
For this activity, students need to compute a series of quantities in their
head. Example: Start with the number of days in a week. Subtract
the number of wheels on a tricycle. Double that
number. And the
answer is…
Go Fish with A Twist: Change up the game of “Go Fish” by asking your child to use equations or number relationships when asking for a number card. For example, instead of asking: “Do you have a ten?” your child may ask: “Do you have the answer to five plus five more?” Instead of asking: “Do you have the number 4?” Your child may ask: “Do you have three less than seven?” This way both players are using mental math to quickly do equations and learning how numbers relate to one another.
Reading News
ELL News
What we are Learning
Kindergarten Block: Seasons - Winter and Snowmen Sequencing. Our Reading focus includes: Uppercase Letters, Sequencing Events, Story Retell, Syllables,
Blending 3-letter words, Rhyming Patterns and Word Families. Please read with your child every night. A great resource is www.Starfall.com. In the next few weeks we will be reviewing our skills to prepare for the upcoming AZELLA test in February.
1st/2nd Grade Block:Our class was so excited and honored to meet our new volunteer. Mr. Andrew is an army veteran. He helps us during our Grammar Block on Tuesdays. Our reading focus is on bonus letters, closed syllable exceptions and welded sounds. We are also working hard on improving our handwriting. Mrs. Mehl received a large number of books and we get to bring three books home each evening to share with our families.
3rd - 5th Grade Block: Our class has been busy learning about the Civil Rights Movement and Martin Luther King, Jr. We have been incorporating reading, writing, speaking, listening, and grammar, all while learning about this important time in American history. In the coming weeks we will be reviewing numerous skills in order to prepare for the upcoming AZELLA test.
Special Education Resource & Speech News
Welcome back,
The Special Education team at Harris is excited to continue learning in 2018. We saw tremendous growth from our students during the first part of this school year, and we hope to continue that growth as we move forward with the 3rd and 4th quarters. The team continues to provide support to students as they are learning in the general education classroom by breaking assignments down into smaller parts, making the language used in lessons a little easier to understand, and providing redirection or repetition of key material. We work together with classroom teachers, planning lessons and teaching.
The special education team continues to provides small group teaching in a different classroom during intervention times when other students are also changing classes. The smaller groups provide time for us to re-teach what was taught in the classroom or provide instruction at a different pace.
We are part of the professional learning communities that meet on Wednesdays when the students leave early. Together we plan the course of units, offer suggestions to each other to improve our teaching, review data, and work to strengthen our skills.
The team is looking forward to watching students excel in various upcoming school activities such as Math Night and the Talent Show! We hope to see you there!!
Music News
Kindergarten - We have been practicing steady beat on our bodies and on instruments. We also have been singing songs about mice and numbers. We have been exploring different ways to move (walk, tiptoe, jog, hop, jump, gallop, crawl).
1st grade - We have been preparing for our Valentine's Day themed program! The program is Tuesday February 13th at 6:30 pm in the Harris cafeteria. Students will need to be in the music room that evening no later than 6:10. They need to wear blue jeans, and a red, pink, or white shirt if possible. Please put this date on your calendar and we will see you there!
2nd grade- We have been practicing reading rhythms (quarter note, eighth notes, and quarter rest). We have also been singing songs using our three singing notes (So, Mi, and La).
3rd grade - We have learned two rhythms (whole note and sixteenth notes), and have been playing games and singing songs that use those rhythms.
4th grade- We have continued to play songs on our recorders using the notes B, A, and G on our recorders. We also performed a rondo chant using wood, metal, and skin instruments.
5th and 6th grade - We have continued to play songs on our recorders using the notes B, A, and G. We also learned a new note, E. We also have been reviewing different time signatures.
Band News
I would like to congratulate all of our band students for performing a wonderful concert in December. They worked hard and did a great job! I am proud of you all!
The 5th graders are working towards a district music note reading test. This test will take place at the end of February. Daily home practice along with our class rehearsals will help in the preparation of this test. The students will also start to receive sheet music that we will perform in our spring concert. Students can also perform a solo or in a small group if they wish. More info will be going home.
The 6th graders have their 6th grade band festival on Tuesday, February 6th, at Mesquite Junior High's gymnasium. We have been preparing the 2 music selections in class. The students are doing a great job! Students should also be practicing their parts at home as well. *Parents are to bring their students to MJHS' gym at 4:45 on Feb. 6th. The concert will be at 6:30 pm. I will be sending home more detailed info the week of January 22nd.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding band. Thank you!
Strings News
The 6th grade Strings Festival is Feb 8th at Mesquite HS. Concert starts at 7 pm.
Author Visit ~ Carmen Agra Deedy - January 11 2018
Student Shout Outs
Taylor Martin
Bicycle Winners:
Jera De La Rosa
Zooey Huerta
Ismael Valencia Patino
Jaslyne Ayala Samaniego
Saul Lopez Diaz
Staff Shout outs
Last summer Mrs. Mehl applied for the Bookstorm Award sponsored by the Friends of the Phoenix Public Library. She was awarded 750 books to share with our students. She picked up half of the books last fall and will get the rest of them next week!!
Harris Elementary School has been selected to receive the fall 2017 Lowe's Toolbox for Education Grant in the amount of $4295.00 for New Campus Walkie Talkies Project!!
Upcoming Events @ Harris
January 22 - Yo Yo Julius Attending all PE Classes today!
January 23 - Yo Yo Julius Attending all PE Classes today!
January 23 - Dental Sealant Program for 2nd & 6th Grades
January 23 - Math Night 5:15 pm - 6:30 pm in the cafeteria
January 24 - 2:30 pm EARLY RELEASE DAY
January 25 - Yo Yo Julius Attending all PE Classes today!
January 25 - Site Council Meeting 4:00 pm -5:00 pm
January 26 - Monthly School Tour with the Principal 4:00 pm -5:00 pm Call 545-7060 ext. 200 to schedule.
January 31 - 2:30 EARLY RELEASE DAY
February 2 - Author Visit - Collen Dougherty
February 5 - PTSO Goodwill Donation Drive - End February 16th.
February 6 - Student Council - Valentines Day Smencil Grams
February 6 - 6th Grade Band Festival - MJHS 4:15 pm - 7:15 pm
February 7 - Student Council - Valentines Day Smencil Grams
February 7 - Preschool Recycling Program
February 7 - Cupid Shuffle Fun Run (During Lunch Recesses)
February 7 - 2:30 EARLY RELEASE DAY
February 8 - Student Council - Valentines Day Smencil Grams
February 8 - 6th grade Strings Festival @ Mesquite High School 7:00 pm
February 9 - Student Council - Valentines Day Smencil Grams
February 9 - Peter Piper Pizza Night 4:00 pm -8:00 pm
February 12 - Student Council - Valentines Day Smencil Grams
February 12 - PTSO Meeting 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
February 13 - Student Council - Valentines Day Smencil Grams
February 13 - 1st Grade Music Performance 2:15 pm and 6:30 pm
February 14 - 2:30 pm EARLY RELEASE DAY
February 15 - STUCO - Field Trip - Friends for Life
February 16 - 1st Grade Field Trip to the Phoenix Zoo
February 21 - 2:30 EARLY RELEASE DAY
February 22 - Reading Night 5:15 -6:30 pm
February 23 - Monthly School Tour with the Principal 4:00 pm -5:00 pm Call 545-7060 ext. 200 to schedule.
February 26 - Read Across America Week!
February 28 - 2:30 pm EARLY RELEASE DAY
February 28 - Site Council -4:00 pm - Library