Dear Parents,

Report cards will be coming home soon and I hope you find them full of good information and showing progress.  Praise for hard work and a show of support and confidence goes a long way in motivating young minds.  Please continue to work on the habit of good attendance and completing assignments on time.  We certainly do not want students to come to school when they are ill, but every day they can be here is another opportunity to learn something new!

If you have any concerns after reviewing your child’s report card please be sure to contact his or her teacher.  This does not have to be an uncomfortable conversation, rather it shows your child that you value their education and you are working as a team, with their teacher, to help them be the best student they can be.  A simple phone call asking a teacher what you can do at home to help is all it takes.  After 20 weeks, now the teacher’s have a good handle on the strengths and weaknesses of each of their students.  You may be asked to read nightly with your child, help with organization, practice math facts, etc.  Short, frequent “episodes” of learning and practice can help sharpen necessary skills. 

Our PTSA has been busy hosting and/or sponsoring a number of events here at Pratt.  Last week they held a family movie night which was very well attended and there is talk of hosting another one next month.  On Feb. 7th they are bringing in a guest speaker to talk to our students in grades 5 – 8 along with our staff during the daytime.  That evening, from 6:30 to 7:30, that same speaker will give a presentation for all parents , regardless of how young or old your children are, designed to educate us on what we can do to safeguard our children in regards to the internet and new technologies.  The PTSA has also sponsored a very successful book fair, Holiday gift shop, 3rd Grade Japanese Culture Day, 3rd & 6th Grade Gingerbread House projects, and a Reflections Contest.  Thank you PTSA!