April 21, 2020
Dear Families,
I want to thank you all for being supportive during this very challenging time. I appreciate seeing your child, as much as possible, and hope they are settling in with their new schedule. Below is the E-Learning plan from March 26th that the district passed out when you first picked up your child's supplies from school.
Today, I want to give you some information regarding moving forward. I have been giving your child a math problem of the day online each day. This was to prepare them for how to turn in materials, check for corrections, and resubmit. Starting Monday, April 27th, all your child's work will be delivered through the computer. If you have access to a printer, and your child prefers a paper pencil copy, you can print the Google Slides out for each lesson and then let me know it's complete with a picture.
Here is our plan moving forward:
Thursday, April 23 - 2nd grade's last day of paper pencil work. Second graders probably have one more day of paper pencil work because when we first made our calendar, we gave the first day for organizing and looking through the work.
Friday, April 24 - This will be a practice day with turning in assignments, adding a text box, and answering any questions regarding the work. I'll have some sample activities they'll do as we practice turning in electronically.
Monday, April 27 - E-Learning begins with approximately 2 hours worth of work for second graders. In their Google Classroom, there will be the follows assignments:
1. Attendance - everyday your child needs to sign in and click "yes, I'm here" or "no" and let me know why. I have to take attendance everyday.
2. Daily Agenda - Same as what I've been doing to explain the daily activities
3. Math Work (40 minutes) - This will take the place of the math problem of the day. Our first week is measurement. I sent home a paper ruler, but we'll use nonstandard units of measurement and other tools you have around the house.
4. Reading Work (40 minutes) - There will be Google Slides for each day. We'll start where we left off and continue with the standards we have not yet completed. Many of the days will include a video with one of the 2nd grade teachers.
5. Writing Work (20 minutes) - Similar to what we've been doing, but with more Google Slides.
6. ScienceWork (10 minutes) - Google Slides
7. Special Areas - Art, Phy. Ed, Music and Media - 10 min. a day
I will be adding your email to your child's Google Classroom. I believe you'll get a weekly email regarding how your child is doing with their classwork. If you are getting too many messages, or don't want the emails, please let me know and I'll remove you. Thanks!!
Google Meets: Starting Monday, April 27th, I will continue to hold our class meeting from 10:30-11am. This is optional, but I would love to see each child at least once a week. I ask that during the meeting, only Kennedy Cubs are in the view of the screen, and the 2nd grader is doing the talking.
During our meeting, we will:
I then will be available to work with kids individually or in small groups regarding questions with their work. I want to be the resource they turn to for help. I will have my Google Meet link open most of the day for kids to pop in with questions. There will no longer be a 1:15 chat time to allow for questions.
Please keep me informed regarding how your child is doing and if there is any way the school can help during this very challenging time.
Hoping ALL are staying SAFE and HEALTHY!!
Love, Kim Veroeven
I want to thank you all for being supportive during this very challenging time. I appreciate seeing your child, as much as possible, and hope they are settling in with their new schedule. Below is the E-Learning plan from March 26th that the district passed out when you first picked up your child's supplies from school.
Today, I want to give you some information regarding moving forward. I have been giving your child a math problem of the day online each day. This was to prepare them for how to turn in materials, check for corrections, and resubmit. Starting Monday, April 27th, all your child's work will be delivered through the computer. If you have access to a printer, and your child prefers a paper pencil copy, you can print the Google Slides out for each lesson and then let me know it's complete with a picture.
Here is our plan moving forward:
Thursday, April 23 - 2nd grade's last day of paper pencil work. Second graders probably have one more day of paper pencil work because when we first made our calendar, we gave the first day for organizing and looking through the work.
Friday, April 24 - This will be a practice day with turning in assignments, adding a text box, and answering any questions regarding the work. I'll have some sample activities they'll do as we practice turning in electronically.
Monday, April 27 - E-Learning begins with approximately 2 hours worth of work for second graders. In their Google Classroom, there will be the follows assignments:
1. Attendance - everyday your child needs to sign in and click "yes, I'm here" or "no" and let me know why. I have to take attendance everyday.
2. Daily Agenda - Same as what I've been doing to explain the daily activities
3. Math Work (40 minutes) - This will take the place of the math problem of the day. Our first week is measurement. I sent home a paper ruler, but we'll use nonstandard units of measurement and other tools you have around the house.
4. Reading Work (40 minutes) - There will be Google Slides for each day. We'll start where we left off and continue with the standards we have not yet completed. Many of the days will include a video with one of the 2nd grade teachers.
5. Writing Work (20 minutes) - Similar to what we've been doing, but with more Google Slides.
6. ScienceWork (10 minutes) - Google Slides
7. Special Areas - Art, Phy. Ed, Music and Media - 10 min. a day
I will be adding your email to your child's Google Classroom. I believe you'll get a weekly email regarding how your child is doing with their classwork. If you are getting too many messages, or don't want the emails, please let me know and I'll remove you. Thanks!!
Google Meets: Starting Monday, April 27th, I will continue to hold our class meeting from 10:30-11am. This is optional, but I would love to see each child at least once a week. I ask that during the meeting, only Kennedy Cubs are in the view of the screen, and the 2nd grader is doing the talking.
During our meeting, we will:
- Greet each other
- Share something
- Play a class game
- Review today’s schedule - I will record this for those who can't come
- Questions???
- Chat time! - I mute my mic and video and let them chat and socialize with each other, while I listen in and ensure they're making good choices.
I then will be available to work with kids individually or in small groups regarding questions with their work. I want to be the resource they turn to for help. I will have my Google Meet link open most of the day for kids to pop in with questions. There will no longer be a 1:15 chat time to allow for questions.
Please keep me informed regarding how your child is doing and if there is any way the school can help during this very challenging time.
Hoping ALL are staying SAFE and HEALTHY!!
Love, Kim Veroeven
March 26th, 2020
MAPS Elementary Parent Handbook: E-Learning
The MAPS Distance E-Learning Plan has been developed to meet the educational needs as best as possible when schools are closed for K-5 students. The plan is used to meet the needs of all students. "E-learning day" means a school day where a school offers full access to online instruction provided by students' individual teachers.
The Distance E-Learning Plan provides time from 7:30 am -10:00 am for teachers to prepare and front load curriculum based on student’s needs. Students are to be working on the curriculum between the hours 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. Teachers will be available from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm on school days to answer questions from students and parents.
Combined Instructional Time and Student Work Time (all are approximate)
The MAPS Distance E-Learning Plan has been developed to meet the educational needs as best as possible when schools are closed for K-5 students. The plan is used to meet the needs of all students. "E-learning day" means a school day where a school offers full access to online instruction provided by students' individual teachers.
The Distance E-Learning Plan provides time from 7:30 am -10:00 am for teachers to prepare and front load curriculum based on student’s needs. Students are to be working on the curriculum between the hours 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. Teachers will be available from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm on school days to answer questions from students and parents.
Combined Instructional Time and Student Work Time (all are approximate)
- Grades K-2: 2 hours total per school day
- Grades 3-5: 2-2.5 hours total per school day
- Teachers will ensure that students are engaging in distance learning instruction and aligned instructional activities on a daily basis.
- This will be accomplished through E-Learning platforms; Google Classroom and other e-tools to support learning.
- Students may complete work on and offline.
- There is not an expectation that students need to be online 100% of the time.
- All presentations, discussion, tutorials, or demonstrations will be recorded for learning flexibility.
Friday, March 27th
Dear Families,
On Tuesday, I will be available to answer questions regarding report cards and distant learning. Please do NOT let your child start any of the paper pencil work until Wednesday, April 1st, If they go ahead, it will be difficult for me to support their learning. My plan Tuesday, is to teach them how to join a Google meet, navigate their daily work, along with how to contact me with questions. I'm sure other things will come up, too. All but a few friends will be ready to go on Google Classroom Tuesday, so I plan to start. I will send the directions out on Google Classroom at 9 am and I will go on at 10 am. I'm planning the first Google Meet at 10:15.
The district is asking teachers to take today and Monday as our Spring Break, to regroup and be ready for distant learning on Tuesday. I am going to start school hours, so I won't respond to Remind after 5 pm, until the next day. Thank you for understanding!
On Tuesday, I will be available to answer questions regarding report cards and distant learning. Please do NOT let your child start any of the paper pencil work until Wednesday, April 1st, If they go ahead, it will be difficult for me to support their learning. My plan Tuesday, is to teach them how to join a Google meet, navigate their daily work, along with how to contact me with questions. I'm sure other things will come up, too. All but a few friends will be ready to go on Google Classroom Tuesday, so I plan to start. I will send the directions out on Google Classroom at 9 am and I will go on at 10 am. I'm planning the first Google Meet at 10:15.
The district is asking teachers to take today and Monday as our Spring Break, to regroup and be ready for distant learning on Tuesday. I am going to start school hours, so I won't respond to Remind after 5 pm, until the next day. Thank you for understanding!
Thursday, March 26th
Dear Second Grade Families,
I hope you are all well and settling into new routines and schedules at home. I am including 15 days of at home learning plans, a student learning calendar for assignments, and a possible daily schedule to follow (feel free to use whatever schedule works in your home that enables your child to get their required learning done each instructional day). Theses 15 days are all paper pencil lessons, as our district prepares devices for families.
These first 15 days of at home learning are tasks that are similar and repeat most days, in order to build a routine of practice each day in math, reading, writing, and science. The skills addressed are areas that have been previously introduced, but please support or enrich your child’s learning according to their specific need as you see fit.
I have included a Student Learning Calendar of the instructional days students will be required to work on. Each instructional day, I will send out a morning message at 10:00 a.m. through Google Classroom and Remind. I will also take attendance within Google Classroom. I will use Remind to communicate with you and Google Classroom to communicate with your child. I will be available through Remind, email, Google Classroom or my home number 507-625-2262 (please just for those who do not have Google Classroom), 10:00 a.m-3:00 p.m for questions or comments.
Important: Please have your child complete the specific tasks indicated on the Student Learning Calendar each day, without going ahead or skipping days unless your child is sick. If they are sick, please text me on Remind, so I can record that in the attendance. If you are looking for extensions to lessons or more learning, please see the optional learning practice area of the lesson plan (though these are NOT required). I will also have optional lessons in Google Classroom.
I have organized your child’s learning materials in the following way:
Green Folder: Parent Information/Writing and Content
Thank you ahead of time for your dedication to your child’s learning as you work with them to accomplish these tasks at home.
I hope you are all well and settling into new routines and schedules at home. I am including 15 days of at home learning plans, a student learning calendar for assignments, and a possible daily schedule to follow (feel free to use whatever schedule works in your home that enables your child to get their required learning done each instructional day). Theses 15 days are all paper pencil lessons, as our district prepares devices for families.
These first 15 days of at home learning are tasks that are similar and repeat most days, in order to build a routine of practice each day in math, reading, writing, and science. The skills addressed are areas that have been previously introduced, but please support or enrich your child’s learning according to their specific need as you see fit.
I have included a Student Learning Calendar of the instructional days students will be required to work on. Each instructional day, I will send out a morning message at 10:00 a.m. through Google Classroom and Remind. I will also take attendance within Google Classroom. I will use Remind to communicate with you and Google Classroom to communicate with your child. I will be available through Remind, email, Google Classroom or my home number 507-625-2262 (please just for those who do not have Google Classroom), 10:00 a.m-3:00 p.m for questions or comments.
Important: Please have your child complete the specific tasks indicated on the Student Learning Calendar each day, without going ahead or skipping days unless your child is sick. If they are sick, please text me on Remind, so I can record that in the attendance. If you are looking for extensions to lessons or more learning, please see the optional learning practice area of the lesson plan (though these are NOT required). I will also have optional lessons in Google Classroom.
I have organized your child’s learning materials in the following way:
Green Folder: Parent Information/Writing and Content
- Student Learning Calendar
- Possible Daily Schedule
- Science Directions and Science Choice Board
- Writing Directions and April Prompt Calendar
- 2nd Grade Math Review Booklets (Week 1, Week 2, Week 3)
- Math Directions
- Math Games
- 2nd Grade Reading Passages (Week 1, Week 2, Week 3)
- Week 1 & 3 Directions, Week 2 Directions
- Spring Conference Report
- Miscellaneous other forms from me or Special Area Teachers (music, art, phy. Ed, media, reading teachers)
Thank you ahead of time for your dedication to your child’s learning as you work with them to accomplish these tasks at home.
READING
Week 1 - Nonfiction Passages and
Week 3 - Fiction Passages
I can read with fluency and accuracy to understand my story.
Activity 1 -
Materials needed: timer and a pencil
Same routine each day. Your child will read the same story 3 times.
Directions:
If no timer is available, follow the same procedure without time. Have your child read the entire passage three times and notice their improvement each time.
Week 2 - Reading Passages
Activity 1: You will read a variety of passages over the next few days in which you can practice answering questions and finding text evidence to prove your answers. Use a green crayon (or a pencil) to prove your answers. Remember to underline your evidence and put the number by where you have found your answers. There are 4 pages to be completed each day. All pages contain important 2nd grade standard work.
Day 1 - “Skunk Alert”
RL.2.1 I can ask and answer questions such as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text.
Day 2 - “Grandpa’s Missing Socks”
RL.2.1 I can ask and answer questions such as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text.
Day 3 - “Sleepy Bear”
RI.2.1 I can ask and answer questions such as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text.
Day 4 - “Nature Treasure Hunt”
RL.2.1 I can ask and answer questions such as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text.
L.2.4 I can determine or clarify the meaning of unknown & multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 2 reading and content, choosing flexibly from an array of strategies.
Day 5 - “The Hunt for Gold”
RL.2.1 I can ask and answer questions such as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text.
L.2.2 I can demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
RL.2.7 I can use information gained from the illustrations and words in a print or digital text to demonstrate understanding of its characters, setting or plot.
Activity 2 - Pick 1 or 2 from the menu below, each day.
These optional choices are all online through their OmniPortal login:
Reading Strategies - comprehension
Writing Strategies
Vocabulary
Grammar and Mechanics
Week 1 - Nonfiction Passages and
Week 3 - Fiction Passages
I can read with fluency and accuracy to understand my story.
Activity 1 -
Materials needed: timer and a pencil
Same routine each day. Your child will read the same story 3 times.
Directions:
- Your child will read the 1st time to build accuracy. It should be timed for 1 minute. Count the number of words read correctly and record the words per minute (WPM).
- Your child will read the story a 2nd time to practice using punctuation when reading and to develop expression.
- Your child will read the story a 3rd time to develop comprehension, in addition to fluency.
- Your child will graph their top 2 (WPM) scores for each passage.
- Your child will answer the comprehension questions connected to the passage. This will help enhance comprehension and vocabulary development.
If no timer is available, follow the same procedure without time. Have your child read the entire passage three times and notice their improvement each time.
Week 2 - Reading Passages
Activity 1: You will read a variety of passages over the next few days in which you can practice answering questions and finding text evidence to prove your answers. Use a green crayon (or a pencil) to prove your answers. Remember to underline your evidence and put the number by where you have found your answers. There are 4 pages to be completed each day. All pages contain important 2nd grade standard work.
Day 1 - “Skunk Alert”
RL.2.1 I can ask and answer questions such as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text.
Day 2 - “Grandpa’s Missing Socks”
RL.2.1 I can ask and answer questions such as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text.
Day 3 - “Sleepy Bear”
RI.2.1 I can ask and answer questions such as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text.
Day 4 - “Nature Treasure Hunt”
RL.2.1 I can ask and answer questions such as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text.
L.2.4 I can determine or clarify the meaning of unknown & multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 2 reading and content, choosing flexibly from an array of strategies.
Day 5 - “The Hunt for Gold”
RL.2.1 I can ask and answer questions such as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text.
L.2.2 I can demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
RL.2.7 I can use information gained from the illustrations and words in a print or digital text to demonstrate understanding of its characters, setting or plot.
Activity 2 - Pick 1 or 2 from the menu below, each day.
- Have your child read a book or chapter. Have them pick a prompt from the first page of their red Reading Response and write in response to their reading.
- Put on a play or puppet show of a book you’ve read.
- Retelling is a great way to talk about a favorite book in a new way. 1) Read a favorite story together. 2) Talk about what happened in the book. 3) Go back to the beginning of the story and tell what happens on each page. (Touch the pages as you go!) 👍🏻Remember: Retelling is about explaining the story without worrying about or actually reading the words. 4) Draw a picture of your favorite part of the story and write a sentence about why you love it.
- My Book Review - Create a book review that will inspire a family member to want to read the book. Share what you liked about the book and why it is special to you.
- Read to Someone protocol from Daily 5, I read a page, you read a page
- Listen to Reading from any of the sites we use: Tumblebooks, MyOn, Epic,
These optional choices are all online through their OmniPortal login:
- Learning A-Z - go to the level up room, pick a book and take the quiz
- PebbleGo - Pick a book, read it and write down 3 facts you learned in your red Reading Response. Then, share your opinion about the book.
- Kennedy website, www.ke.isd77.org, links, learning commons, grade 2, you pick!
- IXL Language - these include all 2nd grade reading and writing standards
Reading Strategies - comprehension
Writing Strategies
Vocabulary
Grammar and Mechanics
- If it's too easy, go to 3rd grade, if it's too hard go to 1st.
MATH
For math, students will be reviewing 2nd grade math standards for the year. Each day, students will complete 3 math pages that focus on one 2nd grade math standard. Please use the 2nd Grade Student Learning Calendar for assignments for each day. When completing these problems, students are encouraged to use the strategies they have learned throughout the year and to show their work. The topics of each week are below:
Week 1 (Number & Operations in Base 10): writing numbers in different ways, addition and subtraction, word problems
Week 2 (Measurement & Data): counting money, using/creating picture graphs and bar graphs, using/creating line plots, telling time, measuring an object*
*Paper ruler included for measuring
Week 3 (Geometry, Operations & Algebraic Thinking): identifying shapes, dividing rectangles equally, addition and subtraction, odd and even numbers, arrays
If you or your child has questions about a math problem, 2nd grade teachers will be available each weekday from 10:00 a.m - 3:00 p.m. through phone call, email, or Remind text. We will also be doing a weekly phone call to check on your child’s math understanding. We care about your child’s math progress and are glad to help during this time of distance learning!
Extra Practice Resources (Optional) - IXL Math: Each 2nd grade math standard that we are practicing is listed in IXL math. The suggested IXLs for practice are listed below. If it is too easy, go to 3rd grade. If it is too hard, try 1st grade.
- Numbers & Operations in Base 10: any skills under M, G, or H
- Measurement & Data: any skills under P, Q, R
- Geometry: any skills under T or U
- Operations & Algebraic Thinking: any skills under A, D, E
- Math Card & Dice Games: Use the game packet to play one new math game every week. For each game, you will need the included recording sheet and a deck of cards.
- Any additional math site suggested by your teacher
WRITING
2nd Grade Writing & Language Standard Work - W 2.1 - I can write opinion pieces on topics or texts supporting a point of view with reasons and information.
- W 2.2 - I can write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.
- W 2.3 - I can write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events.
- L 2.1 - I can use correct grammar and sentence structure.
- L 2.2 - I can use correct capitalization, punctuation, and learned spelling patterns in writing, revising, and editing.
Materials needed: writing notebook, April calendar prompts, and a pencil.
Directions: Each day you will choose a writing prompt from the April writing calendar. Make sure to pay attention to your writing and write complete sentences with a naming part and a telling part. All sentences need to start with capital letters and have proper punctuation. When your writing is complete, read it out loud to yourself to make sure it makes sense and then draw a picture to match your story.
SCIENCE
Hello 2nd grade scientists! In addition to reviewing 2nd grade goals we have had this year, you also have a chance during this time to explore our science book! This book is full of colorful pictures and great science topics, so feel free to look through it and explore. During the next three weeks, we will be doing three chapters in our science book. The chapters are listed below:
Week 1 (Chapter 1, The Nature of Science): questions scientists ask, tools scientists use, skills scientists have, how scientists find answers and collect data
Week 2 (Chapter 2, Technology and Tools): defining technology, designing new ways to accomplish tasks, looking at how scientists use tools and machines
Week 3: (Chapter 7, Weather): the water cycle, describing weather, measuring weather, how weather changes
Each day, students will be assigned several pages to read through and complete the questions with their pencil. The questions range from filling in the blank, drawing your ideas, or circling important ideas. Look for the BLUE directions on each page for your pencil activities. Please use the 2nd Grade Student Learning Calendar for specific page numbers for each day. If you finish your science pages early, feel free to use the attached Science Choice Board to complete a science activity.
At the end of each week, students will have a “ketchup” time instead of a science lesson. This is a time to do any assignments that they did not complete over the week. If students have any questions about any assignments, they may also contact their teacher on weekdays between 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. If they have completed all the activities for the week, they may use this extra time to use any extra math, reading, or science resources to celebrate their learning for the week!
Hello 2nd grade scientists! In addition to reviewing 2nd grade goals we have had this year, you also have a chance during this time to explore our science book! This book is full of colorful pictures and great science topics, so feel free to look through it and explore. During the next three weeks, we will be doing three chapters in our science book. The chapters are listed below:
Week 1 (Chapter 1, The Nature of Science): questions scientists ask, tools scientists use, skills scientists have, how scientists find answers and collect data
Week 2 (Chapter 2, Technology and Tools): defining technology, designing new ways to accomplish tasks, looking at how scientists use tools and machines
Week 3: (Chapter 7, Weather): the water cycle, describing weather, measuring weather, how weather changes
Each day, students will be assigned several pages to read through and complete the questions with their pencil. The questions range from filling in the blank, drawing your ideas, or circling important ideas. Look for the BLUE directions on each page for your pencil activities. Please use the 2nd Grade Student Learning Calendar for specific page numbers for each day. If you finish your science pages early, feel free to use the attached Science Choice Board to complete a science activity.
At the end of each week, students will have a “ketchup” time instead of a science lesson. This is a time to do any assignments that they did not complete over the week. If students have any questions about any assignments, they may also contact their teacher on weekdays between 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. If they have completed all the activities for the week, they may use this extra time to use any extra math, reading, or science resources to celebrate their learning for the week!
Tomorrow....March 25, 2020
TEACHER PARADE
You've maybe heard of other schools driving through neighborhoods to wave to their students who we all miss so very much. Tomorrow, Wednesday, March 25th, Kennedy Staff will participate in a caravan of teachers. This is the plan that was sent to me. We're leaving Kennedy at 5:30 PM.
List of streets (zig zag between Kennedy St and Main street)
Fair Street
Maribou
N Maribou
Mary Lou Ln
N Mayfair Dr
Black Eagle
Main Street to Hosanna Dr.
The next 4 streets zig zag on the way to Hoffman)
Pather Ln
Cheetah Ln
Lynx Ln
Cougar Dr
Cross over Hoffman
(small loop here)
Crystal Circle
Crystal Ln
Amber Ln
Sunstone Dr
Back on to Hoffman
Eastwood Manner Mobile home park
Hilltop Apt complex parking lot
Over by campus
Eastport Apt parking lots
Homestead Rd
Apt before homestead
Homestead Apt
Belle Ave
High Ciara mobile home park
Kennedy St
Fair (going towards Wal-Mart)
Itasca Dr
Thro Ave
Main street back to Kennedy
HOPE to see some of you!!!
You've maybe heard of other schools driving through neighborhoods to wave to their students who we all miss so very much. Tomorrow, Wednesday, March 25th, Kennedy Staff will participate in a caravan of teachers. This is the plan that was sent to me. We're leaving Kennedy at 5:30 PM.
List of streets (zig zag between Kennedy St and Main street)
Fair Street
Maribou
N Maribou
Mary Lou Ln
N Mayfair Dr
Black Eagle
Main Street to Hosanna Dr.
The next 4 streets zig zag on the way to Hoffman)
Pather Ln
Cheetah Ln
Lynx Ln
Cougar Dr
Cross over Hoffman
(small loop here)
Crystal Circle
Crystal Ln
Amber Ln
Sunstone Dr
Back on to Hoffman
Eastwood Manner Mobile home park
Hilltop Apt complex parking lot
Over by campus
Eastport Apt parking lots
Homestead Rd
Apt before homestead
Homestead Apt
Belle Ave
High Ciara mobile home park
Kennedy St
Fair (going towards Wal-Mart)
Itasca Dr
Thro Ave
Main street back to Kennedy
HOPE to see some of you!!!
MArch 26, 2020
Kennedy Elementary
DISTANCE LEARNING PICK-UP PLAN for THURSDAY
Office: 507-387-2122
WHO: All families with students at Kennedy Elementary.
WHAT: Lessons and materials pick up at the school.
WHEN: Thursday, March 26
WHERE: Door 1 - Front of the building on 2600 E Main Street.
HOW: Front car will drive up to the PICK UP SIGN in the front of the building on E Main Street. All other cars should start lining up along the curb in front of the building on E Main Street. PLEASE DO NOT BLOCK THE ENTRANCE TO THE PARKING LOT.
NOTE: Our school is now closed to the public.
We regret that we cannot let you into the building at this time.
DISTANCE LEARNING PICK-UP PLAN for THURSDAY
Office: 507-387-2122
WHO: All families with students at Kennedy Elementary.
WHAT: Lessons and materials pick up at the school.
- We will be using a staggered approach by student last name.
- Please be prepared with the following information: Student name, grade, teacher
WHEN: Thursday, March 26
- A-F = 8:00 to 9:30
- G-N = 9:30 to 11:00
- O-Z = 1:00 to 2:30
- Open = 2:30 to 4:00
- This block is open to anyone that is unable to pick up at their assigned time.
WHERE: Door 1 - Front of the building on 2600 E Main Street.
HOW: Front car will drive up to the PICK UP SIGN in the front of the building on E Main Street. All other cars should start lining up along the curb in front of the building on E Main Street. PLEASE DO NOT BLOCK THE ENTRANCE TO THE PARKING LOT.
- First car will pull up to sign, tell the school employee the names, grades, and teacher names of students.
- Walkie Talkies will be used to get this information into the volunteers inside of Kennedy.
- Materials will be brought out and placed outside of the car. One person from the car will need to come out and collect the materials. This will maintain social distance.
- We will also appreciate your patience. This will be a one car at a time operation so please stagger your arrival within your assigned time.
NOTE: Our school is now closed to the public.
We regret that we cannot let you into the building at this time.
March 17, 2020
Dear Families,
Please give your child a hug from me and tell them I wish we could be together.
Until then, I have a new math site I'd like them to practice on and I'll eventually be adding materials to our Google Classroom. If they go to our Google Classroom site, we can say hello to each other. ;) I only want them to go to the Google Classroom titled, Mrs. Veroeven's 2nd Grade All-Stars. The other classes listed will be added in the coming days. They can access Google Classroom through their OmniPortal (see link) it's also found on this website under the website tab. OmniPortal is also where your child can find eBooks. If they forgot their password, please send me a message on Remind and I can send it to you. Teachers are meeting this week to make a plan for future instruction. Formal instruction and assignments will not start until March 30th. At this point, I do not know exactly what that will look like, but I should have a better idea in the coming days. For now, please try to keep your child working on reading, writing, and math daily for at least 30 minutes each.
I recommend:
Reading: 20 minutes of independent reading and 20 minutes of either listening to reading or read with someone.
Math: 30 minutes, board game, IXL, Happy Numbers, RACES (found on the website tab)
Writing: 30 minutes of journal writing or creative writing - maybe it can be a story they share with the class!
Please give your child a hug from me and tell them I wish we could be together.
Until then, I have a new math site I'd like them to practice on and I'll eventually be adding materials to our Google Classroom. If they go to our Google Classroom site, we can say hello to each other. ;) I only want them to go to the Google Classroom titled, Mrs. Veroeven's 2nd Grade All-Stars. The other classes listed will be added in the coming days. They can access Google Classroom through their OmniPortal (see link) it's also found on this website under the website tab. OmniPortal is also where your child can find eBooks. If they forgot their password, please send me a message on Remind and I can send it to you. Teachers are meeting this week to make a plan for future instruction. Formal instruction and assignments will not start until March 30th. At this point, I do not know exactly what that will look like, but I should have a better idea in the coming days. For now, please try to keep your child working on reading, writing, and math daily for at least 30 minutes each.
I recommend:
Reading: 20 minutes of independent reading and 20 minutes of either listening to reading or read with someone.
Math: 30 minutes, board game, IXL, Happy Numbers, RACES (found on the website tab)
Writing: 30 minutes of journal writing or creative writing - maybe it can be a story they share with the class!
MATH
I've enrolled our class in a new program to work on math skills. IXL is fantastic, but I thought they might like a new challenge. When your child first logs on, they will take a short placement test. Please do not help them with it, since the test will provide the appropriate starting place for their learning and practice. I will send your child's password for Happy Numbers to you through Remind. You will need the class number as listed below and the link also provided.
I've enrolled our class in a new program to work on math skills. IXL is fantastic, but I thought they might like a new challenge. When your child first logs on, they will take a short placement test. Please do not help them with it, since the test will provide the appropriate starting place for their learning and practice. I will send your child's password for Happy Numbers to you through Remind. You will need the class number as listed below and the link also provided.
Class number is 413 472
If your household does not have access to WiFi, I understand your child won't be able to access these sites.
Hope you all are able to stay safe and healthy. Bye for now!!
Hope you all are able to stay safe and healthy. Bye for now!!
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2-2-20
Reading
If you haven't done so yet, please turn in your child's January reading calendar. These are the logs I have now: Rayna, Savannah, Allie, Vanneta, Lucas, and Hayden. Crazy hair day will be Thursday, February 6 for children who colored at least 18 paws for January. In your child's Tuesday Folder, will be their assessment results from Unit 4. Please look over with your child and sign the cover page. Then, return it to school. Thanks! Last week, we started Unit 5 in reading. This unit's standards are: RI.2.4 - I can determine the meaning of unknown words and phrases (context clues) . We've been working on being "word detectives" and going on the hunt within a passage to figure out what an unknown word could mean. RI.2.6 - I can identify the main purpose of a text (author's purpose) Unit 13 - phonics and spelling focus The sound of "ow, ou" Week of 2/3/20 1. down 2. shout 3. mouth 4. town 5. sprout 6. south 7. surround 8. powder 9. outside |
Writing
We've been introduced to Google Docs. This is a digital format for writing. Your child will use Google Docs all throughout their schooling here in Mankato. We learned how to create a document, name it, type, change the font and size, and return to the next line. Your child can access their Google Docs by logging into their OmnID Portal on the Mankato Area Public Schools link, found on our class website and then enter their user name and password. Look for fun digital writing projects in the future! |
Math
We just wrapped up Unit 4 in math. A parent letter will come home in your child's Tuesday Folder with how they did. These are the strategies we've recently learned for subtraction. We do not learn formal algorithms in second grade. The strategies we teach focus on mental math and flexible thinking. We started Geometry last week. In second grade, we focus on similarities and differences among shapes. The unit includes a lot of vocabulary, such as:
attributes perpendicular parallel lines intersecting lines 2D shapes and their names 3D shapes and their names vertex and vertices edge nets This week's special days: Monday and Thursday - Phy. Ed. Tuesday - Music Wednesday - Art Friday - Library Media Have a fantastic week!! |
12-15-19
READ AND FEED
We will be celebrating reading by having a “Read and Feed” and PJ Day on Friday, December 20th. Activities in the morning will include: read to self, read to someone, teacher-led reading, listening to reading, and staff guest readers. Students will also be able to relax by bringing a special blanket/pillow (if you wish to send them) and eating a healthy snack while celebrating their love of reading. It would be very helpful if you would be willing to donate a healthy snack at our “Read and Feed”. We would appreciate snacks that promote healthy food choices. In the afternoon, we will be watching a holiday movie. Thank you for supporting our love of reading! AFTER Break Leave I have not told the class yet, but I will be getting shoulder surgery on December, 27th. I will have to be in a sling for 4 weeks. At this point, I have a sub from January 2-17. I definitely wish this was not needed, however, I learned over Thanksgiving break that my rotator cuff is torn. I will be in regular contact with the sub, however, if you have daily schedule changes or need to get a message to your child, please call the office during this time. Thanks! |
Reading
We're currently wrapping up Unit 3 in reading. We'll be taking the Unit Assessment later this week. These are the focused standards: RI 2.3 I can describe how characters in a story respond to major events and challenges. RI 2.5 I can know and use various text features (e.g., captions, bold print, subheadings, glossaries, indexes, electronic menus, icons) to locate key facts or information in a text efficiently. NEEDS Kennedy is in need of donated kids clothes for when children have accidents or spill at lunch. If you have clothes to donate, please bring them to me. We can always use winter clothes too. Also, if you have any books you ever want to donate to our classroom, I would love to add them to our library for kids to read and take home. Thanks! |
MATH - Unit 4
(Add and Subtract 2-Digit Numbers) We've been working on double digit addition. There will be many "strategies" taught, and your child will be encouraged to use the strategy that works best for him/her. These strategies are not like the traditional methods that you or I learned when adding multiple digits. Studies show that the traditional methods increase errors and takes away from the value of each digit (i.e. in a problem like: 54+23 we would say 4+3 and then 5+2 instead of 50+20). Plus, with these new strategies you will notice your child attempting to solve problems mentally which will be the ultimate goal. You may be tempted to "teach" your child the traditional method and some only want to do that already, but I ask that you allow your child to teach YOU these new strategies. Keep in mind that not all strategies are a good fit for all students. I encourage the student to stick with the strategy that they can connect with and are most comfortable with. When students become more fluent in their adding, they will begin to realize that some strategies work best for certain problems and some for others. Two weeks ago, we learned the split strategy using base ten blocks and drawing pictures. We use one line to represent a ten and a dot to represent ones. Then, we moved onto writing on paper, breaking into tens and ones, see the video below. We learned everything in the video, except we don't circle the numbers (step 2) Last week, we learned the jump strategy. Have your child show you how to add 62+39 using each strategy. Have a wonderful week and winter break!
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12-2-19
Children's Museum Visit
Tuesday, December 3, from 9-11 our class with be at the museum developing knowledge about the concepts of matter and motion as they relate to rocks and quarries. We'll practice making observation, experimenting with different materials and equipment with classmates in the quarry. We'll also get a chance to play and explore, so please have your child wear tennis shoes. November PAWS reading calendar Please have your child return their calendar. For children who read at least 20 PAWS in November, we will have PJ Day on Thursday, December 5th. I will send a letter home once I receive their calendar. Holiday Program December 13th, at 9:30 and 1:00. Same concert at both times. Come to the time that works best for you! READING Tomorrow, in your child's Tuesday Folder is their assessment results for Unit 2. Please look over the results with your child and rip off the top sheet, sign the back and send it back to school. This will communicate to me that you've received the information. This week, we started Unit 3 in reading. The standard focus is: RI 2.3 Identify sequence of events: Determine the order of events for stories and for topics such as history, science, or biography. |
Math
Also, in your child's Tuesday Folder will be their assessment results for Unit 3 in math. There are IXL's to practice at home if your child is still working on one or more of the standards. Today, we started Unit 4 in math. The standard goals for this unit are: 2.1.1.3 Find 10 more or 10 less than a given three-digit number. Find 100 more or 100 less than a given three-digit number. 2.1.1.4 Round numbers up to the nearest 10 and 100 and round numbers down to the nearest 10 and 100. 2.1.2.3 Estimate sums and differences up to 100. 2.1.2.4 Use mental strategies and algorithms based on knowledge of place value to add and subtract two-digit numbers. Strategies may include decomposition, expanded notation, and partial sums and differences. |
Weekly Phonics focus:
Unit 6- vowel teams - long e 1. dream 2. feel 3. yield 4. cream 5. wheel 6. field 7. greedy 8. increase 9. relief Upcoming Events 12-5 - Family Fit Night 6-7PM 12-10 - 2hr late start 12-13 - Winter concert 12-23-12-31 - No School - winter break Have a wonderful week! |
10-30-19
It's time to sign up for Fall Conferences!
Use this link www.ptcfast.com/schools/kennedy_elementary_2 Picture retakes this Friday! If you want your child's pictures retaken, you need to return the first set of pictures. Reading - Unit 1 Standards we're currently working on: RI 2.1 - Ask Questions: Ask and answer questions such as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text. RI 2.2 - Main Idea and Detail: Identify the main topic of a multi-paragraph text as well as the focus of specific paragraphs within a text. The "Beanie Baby" strategies are strategies we use when we come to a word we don't know. See attached bookmark. |
Math
We just wrapped up Unit 2 in math. We've learned multiple strategies for adding and subtracting one-digit numbers. Our next unit is focused on place value, time, and money. The standard goals for Unit 3 are: 1. Read, write and represent whole numbers up to 1000. Representations may include numerals, addition, subtraction, multiplication, words, pictures, tally marks, number lines and manipulatives, such as bundles of sticks and base 10 blocks (2.1.1.1) 2. Use place value to describe whole numbers between 10 and 1000 in terms of hundreds, tens and ones. Know that 100 is 10 tens, and 1000 is 10 hundreds. (2.1.1.2) 3. Compare and order whole numbers up to 1000. (2.1.1.5) 4. Tell time to the quarter-hour and distinguish between a.m. and p.m. (2.3.3.1) 5. Identify pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters. Find the value of a group of coins and determine combinations of coins that equal a given amount. (2.3.3.2) |
Word Study vs. Spelling Tests
In second grade, your student will practice a phonics pattern each week. We'll build, write, and read words with the week's focus and then check to see how well the pattern has been mastered on Friday. The spell check on Friday, will be done with a partner and it's called a Peer Check. You hopefully saw one in your child's Tuesday Folder. Children take turns being the teacher and the student. The student has two tries to spell the word correctly and if it's still wrong, the word is spelt to them by their peer. Some parents in the past, have preferred to check the phonics/spelling patterns at home with their child before Friday. You will find all the words on our classroom website under the tab, Weekly Phonics Pattern / Spelling. This week's pattern is CVCe. Unit 2 silent e Week of October 28 1. crate 2. stroke 3. glide 4. woke 5. plate 6. pride 7. reptile 8. naptime 9. mistake Bring Sweatshirts The dome area of the school can be quite drafty and cool. Please send a sweatshirt to school with your child every day. Thanks!! Have a GREAT week! |
10-15-19
Thank you all for encouraging and supporting your child in Kennedy's at home reading program, PAWS to Read. Our goal is 5 full PAWS per week. If your child needs additional books for reading at home, I have books to send home with them at their "just right" reading level. Just let me know, through Remind, and I will send books home. I just ask that you help ensure the books will be returned when done.
Reading logs due for check in every Wednesday! Reading Focus We've been learning the six syllable types. We refer to them as, CLOVER. C = closed syllable - follows a CVC pattern, like mat L = consonant le - follows the end pattern, ble, in the word ta-ble O = open syllable - follows a CV pattern, such as cu, in the word cu-pid V = vowel teams - follows the pattern of 2 vowels next to each other in a word, like the two ee's in speech E = silent e - follows the pattern CVCe, as in spike R = r-control - follows the patterns with the sounds: ar, er, ir, ur, and or Learning these syllable types will help us learn how to read and spell multisyllabic words. |
Math Focus
Small group math rotations are ready to start after MEA. Students will rotate to four stations: teacher table, desk work (independent work), IXL, and Fact Fluency tubs. One of our second grade standards is fact fluency, the ability to add and subtract facts with automaticity and strategies. I have completed a math running record with each child. This information places children in a level for fact development. After a child works through a level and shows mastery, they will move on it the next level. If they need additional practice, I will then send games and work home for you to practice with your child. I will share how they're doing at conferences, next month. The levels are: LEVEL 1 +0 and +1 Facts LEVEL 2 Add Within 10 (facts under sum of 10) LEVEL 3 Friends of 10 - (every number has a partner) 0+10, 1+9, 2+8. 3+7, 4+6, 5+5. 6+4, 7+3. 8+2, 9+1, 10+0 LEVEL 4 Doubles 4+4, 5+5, 7+7 etc. LEVEL 5 Doubles +1 4+5, 5+6. 7+8, etc, LEVEL 6 Doubles +2 LEVEL 7 - Make a Friendly Number Make 10 First, then add the rest - (9+5 is actually 10+4) LEVEL 8 Add 10 LEVEL 9 Add 10 (10+5,10+6, etc.) LEVEL 10 Add within 20 |
Writing Focus We're focusing on sentence structure. We've learned every sentence has a subject (naming part) and a predicate (telling part). All our writing continues to develop as we work on being creative and writing about what we’re most interested in. KMR The last day of each week for 15-20 minutes, we make time to catch up on work not completed throughout the week. The K in KMR, stands for catch up (Ketchup). The M stands for mustard minutes, or time owed for poor behavior choices. During mustard minutes, the child reflects on their behavior by writing a letter expressing what Kennedy rule they broke and what they'll do in the future to improve. Then R, relish, is free choice in the classroom as a reward. SEESAW If you haven't signed up yet, please do today. Your child is excited to share their class and learning with you. Link- https://app.seesaw.me/s/524-792-911 Scholastic Book Order In your child's Tuesday folder, the first book order came home. You can order online or send an order form in to school. Book orders are due Wednesday, October 23rd. Our classroom code to order online is: HBBG6 Plan ahead to visit Kennedy during our Open House on Thursday, October 24th! Have a GREAT MEA Break! |
9-24-19
Reading Focus
We’re continuing to learn a new reading strategy each day. As we learn a new strategy, it's added to our CAFE menu. C - comprehension A - accuracy F - fluency E - expand vocabulary See the reading strategies tab on this website for all our strategies. Daily 5 - We're working hard on building our reading and writing stamina. We've successfully mastered 15 minutes for both Read to Self and Work on Writing. Children were also introduced to Listen to Reading. A letter in their Tuesday folder today, explain the site EPIC that can be used at home, too |
Writer's Workshop
You might see random writing pieces coming home. As we learn our routines, children are creating original writing pieces of their choice. It's very important that we praise their attempts on spelling and not tell them that words are misspelled. We established rules such as: 1. Write the whole time 2. Write at your desk or tummy write 3. Zero voice level 4. Get started right away 5. Underline words you don't know how to spell 6. If you can't think of something to write, start with a picture. Resources we use for spelling: We add 5 new words to our class Word Wall each day to help as a quick reference tool. We also will use a QuickWord Handbook. This is a little dictionary that has many common words listed and I can add words to it, too. This is a valuable resource we’ll use all year. |
Math Focus
We’re continuing to revisit First Grade math skills and learn math routines. We’re also starting to work with the online resource, IXL. A letter about IXL was sent home today, as well. Content Focus Bus evacuation drill is Wednesday. All children regardless if they ride the bus or not, will go through our 2nd grade bus safety curriculum. Birthday Celebrations In my class, I try to make your child's special day enjoyable! It starts with them being my helper for the day. We sing our special song and then the birthday child gets to select a fun classroom game or free time at the end of the day. If you're child brings a store bought treat to share with the class, I will pass it out in the lunchroom as a bonus dessert. I just ask that you don't bring anything that has to be refrigerated or cut into pieces. Birthday Invitations: When children have a party outside of school, I understand how hard it is to distribute the invitations, but I only allow children to pass out invitations in the class if everyone is invited. Please understand any other way creates hurt feelings. Thank you for understanding! Upcoming Events Fall pictures, this Friday Have a fantastic week! |
9-10-19
It's been a great start to our new year. We've been working on classroom routines along with building a community of active learners.
One routine is Daily 5. Daily 5 is a classroom organization system which allows for student independence during reading. This independence allows me to teach small reading groups. We've started with Read to Self. We established the following rules and have been practicing them daily. 1. Stay in one spot 2. Read the whole time 3. Eyes in your book 4. Get started right away 5. Zero or one voice level 6. Just right books 7. Clean up when done You might want to use these rules at home too. |
Reading Focus
We've been working on learning strategies all good readers use. We've learned that all readers, Check for Understanding. We stop along the way and make sure we understand the story. Good readers also, Cross-Check. If a word doesn't look right or sound right, we must go back and fix it. When we Cross-Check, we say: Does it look right? Does it sound right? Does it make sense? There are arm movements, I taught today, to go with the strategy. Ask your child to show you and use this strategy at home when they misread a word. You can say, "Let's cross-check that." Math Focus We're starting math out with a few inspirational lessons: Lesson 1 - Brains grow and change Lesson 2 - Mistakes are okay Lesson 3 - Believe in yourself (9/11) Lesson 4 - Speed is not important Lesson 5 - Our brains think about math visually We're also reviewing First Grade skills such as: money, time, calendar, patterns, and basic facts. Please send your child's coins if you haven't already. |
DATA
The district sent home your child's NWEA and DIBELS data from First Grade, today. Looking Ahead 1. Tuesday Folders came home tonight. (9/10). Please empty it and return it to school tomorrow. 2. Reading calendars came home today and are due for check in next week on (9/18) 3. SPECIALS Day 5 - 9/11 - Media - books picked Day 1 - 9/12 - Phy. Ed. (bring socks) Day 2 - 9/13 - Music Day 3 - 9/16 - Art Day 4 - 9/17 Phy. Ed. Day 5 - 9/18 - Media - books returned 4. Two-hour late start on Tuesday, September 17th. The first bell will ring at 9:55 a.m. and the tardy bell will ring at 10:05 a.m. 5. Friday, September 20th, Movie Night and PTO meeting, 6 pm 6. DIBELS assessment for Fall on Friday, September 20th. 7. Fall pictures on 9/27, along with Fundraiser walk/run event. 8. Children can bring their own water bottle to school. The bottle should be leak proof and kept on the floor by their desk. Have a WONDERFUL week! |