Classroom Assignments for the 2010-2011 School Year

Some information about what to expect regarding classroom assignments for the 2010-2011 school year:

1) As usual, most of our students will see their familiar teachers as they advance a grade but stay in their current multi-aged classrooms at the primary, lower elementary, or upper elementary grade level.

2) Classroom assignments for incoming pre-K and K students will be made after the lottery results are announced.  Orientations for pre-K and K students and their families will be held May 10.

3) Students in K, 3rd, and 5th grade have “move up day” on May 5.  “Move up day” introduces students to the next grade level.  As always, students visit a classroom at the next grade level so they get a feel for what it will look like.  The classroom visited is NOT the students’ assignment.

4) Families of K and 3rd grade students are invited to introduce themselves to the lower and upper el teams, respectively, for “move up orientations” from 6:00 to 6:30 pm on April 26.  This is a time to learn what changes in independence, scheduling, and homework can be expected at the next grade level.

5) Families of current George Watts Montessori students should make a conference appointment with their current teacher to discuss any hopes or concerns about their own child’s progress.  Conferences are not required but can be a nice way to wrap up the school year.

6) Before school lets out, the current teachers make recommendations about assignments for next year to the principal.

7) Because of the expected staffing cuts, the principal and assistant principal will not be making classroom assignments until August.  As much as they will try to communicate this information early, it will likely be just before school starts and the exact method of communication is not known at this time.  We currently have 5 upper el classes, 9 lower el classes, and 6 primary classes.  This may change next year.  Other variables on assignments include things like class size, the recommendations of the current teacher, a student’s “fit” with the new teacher/TA team, and class composition.

8) All families and students will be invited to a “back to school” event just before school starts.  While general supply lists are posted on the school website by mid-summer for families’ convenience, families may prefer to review their actual classroom list before investing in unnecessary items.  The “back to school” event is the perfect opportunity to meet a new teacher, volunteer to meet classroom needs, and sign up for the PTA!