Weekly Update

Owl #19

Update on our Concurrent Learning Pilot

Update on our Concurrent Learning Pilot

We all seemed to survive the first week of our concurrent learning pilot. Although, honestly, I've never gone home from school quite so tired before. This model of teaching brings multi-tasking to a whole new level! Truly, the kids were great. They are trying their best to stay engaged and make the most out of each learning experience. Professor Quimby reports that his sessions are running smoothly. While I will always provide him with a focused lesson, he always has my permission to change course. Being responsive to the students' needs is his first responsibility. If they are struggling or frustrated with a task, I want them to receive the help they need. In my opinion, there is nothing more important than tending to our students' social and emotional needs. I constantly remind myself that we are all still teaching and learning during a pandemic. For reasons known and unknown, this may not always be easy for our students. We will continue to work hard to always put them first.


This next week will follow the typical schedule:


Monday and Tuesday: Cohort one in-person, Cohort 2 remote

Wednesday: 1/2 day AM remote instruction for all, 1/2 day PM independent work for all

Thursday and Friday: Cohort two in-person, Cohort 1 remote


Specials:

Monday - Library

Tuesday - Technology

Wednesday - Art

Thursday - Music

Friday - Gym

Update on our Concurrent Learning Pilot
Packing for Hogwarts

Packing for Hogwarts

  • A fully charged iPad
  • Green Clough folder
  • Wonders Reading/Writing Companion (Unit 1-2) Workbook
  • Chapter 3 - Go Math!
  • 3 Composition Notebooks (Dear Harry, Math, Reading)
  • Pencil box containing things like pencils, scissors, glue stick, colored pencils, pencil sharpener, crayons, etc.
  • A spare mask in a ziplock bag
  • Snack and a water bottle


* Last call for all Charlotte's Web books to be returned!


(Large white binders can stay at home)

Packing for Hogwarts

Please dress your child in LAYERS!

It is January and the weather is COLD. In order to keep your child as safe as possible, classroom windows and even bus windows need to remain open at all times. Our classroom can feel truly bitter. I allow winter hats to be worn in class and thin gloves might be a good idea for some students. A small lap blanket would also be allowed if your child has low cold tolerance (as I do!).

Technology

Troubleshooting WiFi Issues in the Home

Doug Belshaw offered this handy family-friendly guide on understanding your home wifi. It provides practical tips to understand better the Internet infrastructure in your home and what you can do to improve the quality if you encounter issues.


Having Trouble with the iPad?

Many iPad issues can be resolved by closing out of apps and open tabs in the browser. The next easy thing to try is to power down the iPad for a few minutes and then restarting it. When all else fails, fill out a "HelpDesk" request. The MURSD tech department is very responsive to HelpDesk requests. You can access this help by clicking on the HelpDesk link on the student iPad or clicking HERE.

Celebrations

Valentine's Day

Unfortunately, students will not be able to exchange Valentine cards or candy this year due to health and safety guidelines. I already have some ideas that will ensure that the students are able to express love and feel loved around this traditional holiday. Thanks so much for understanding. Do feel welcome to pack a special snack on the 9th (Cohort 1) and 12th (Cohort 2) of the month!


4th-grade Celebration

The Clough PTO is beginning to collect 4-5 photos of your child/group during their time at Clough. Photos can capture years K-4. Photos should picture your child participating in school events like getting on the bus, class parties, Clough Halloween, field days, field trips, etc. You can also submit a couple of pictures with your child and his/her friends as the committee understands that the pandemic may have made capturing your child at school events more challenging. Finally, please also include a baby or toddler picture. The committee asks that you politely refrain from sending in pictures of your child at a birthday party, playdate, or sports event. Pictures should be emailed to cloughclassof2029@gmail.com. The deadline for pictures is February 14, 2021. If you are struggling to find pictures, please email me directly and I will be sure to take some photos in school and send them to you. Finally, you can email cloughclassof2029@gmail.com with any questions you may have.

Staying Connected

Let's continue to stay connected. Please reach out should you have any questions or concerns. Also, always feel free to share triumphs you're noticing in your child. We love hearing stories of growth and increased independence. We are committed to helping your child overcome obstacles and to set and work toward meaningful goals. As a parent myself, I know how tricky navigating parenting during typical days is let alone during a pandemic. Let's continue to keep the dialogue open as we move through the school year. Don't ever hesitate to contact us.
Professor Brigham

Professor Brigham

Professor Brigham

10 North Avenue, Mendon, MA, USA mbrigham@mursd.org (508) 634-1580 mrsbrigham.org
Professor Griswold

Professor Griswold

Professor Griswold

10 North Avenue, Mendon, MA, USA agriswold@mursd.org (508) 634-1580
Professor Quimby

Professor Quimby

Professor Quimby

10 North Avenue, Mendon, MA, USA aquimby@mursd.org (508) 634-1580