Information+for+Parents



Dear Parents,

 As a secondary, English teacher, I feel that it is important to instill in students a passion for writing and reading as they gain confidence in the skills needed to become life-long readers and writers. I feel that it is imperative to bridge the gap between home and school, as students understand that what they learn in school directly impacts their lives outside the classroom. Making connections and extending the classroom walls is what Wiki helps students, parents and teachers realize, The Wiki allows the students to express both their confusions and passions, in a non- threatening environment. It helps clarify questions and solidify solutions regarding classroom curricula and its relationship to the student’s world outside the classroom

 The Wiki is also utilized to publish student assignments and assignment guidelines. This serves as an effective method for students to understand my expectations for the academic school year. Planning ahead, and setting clear goals lower the level of concern in students as they can organize their work to reduce the stress of “last minute” cramming. This allows them to gain the necessary skills needed to plan and carry out assignments with realistic expectations. Here, in this Wiki section, parents can help their child pace their English writing assignments, acting as a support system, sharing a common interest and delineating clear-cut goals.

Also built in to the Wiki experience is the ability for students to communicate with their peers. This helps foster a sense of belonging to a greater learning community, where peers reach out to one another, in collaborative, team building groups. Information is shared, ideas are expressed, and discussions ensue. The discussion feature of the Wiki provides the students the opportunity to look at different perspectives and increase their sense of empathy as different points of view are embraced and shared. Whether it is fascinating quotes, or analysis of a point of view or theme, students will grow as literary “experts”.

 Lastly, another helpful Wiki characteristic is the space where student tips are listed to deepen ones reading analysis, or provide the necessary skills to broaden their writing abilities. I encourage you to refer them back to any of the Wiki pages so that we continue to work as a team, on the same “page” so to speak. I look forward to a year filled with students who continue to ask questions and seek solutions, with both myself and you, their parents, supporting their determination to reach their goals in English class. Thanks for your support, and I look forward to a wondrous year with your inspiring children!

 Sincerely,  Julia Bressler