Structured language is one of the most essential components of every Craig School class. We know that breaking language (both written and spoken) will help all learners access the information at hand better. All language is classified into receptive (reading, listening) and expressive (speaking and writing). The faculty understands that our students need help with one, if not both, of these areas. We use direct instruction in classes like Orton-Gillingham Reading, Language Arts, and Speech, but all teachers are breaking down the language they use to teach in order to reach all learners. As you hear more about the progress your student is making in their classes, you may hear the teacher use some of the terms in the chart below. Knowing these terms will make it easier for you to understand how our faculty teaches. You may even hear your student use some of these terms regarding what they do here at Craig! Many teachers use various games and other creative ways to allow students to “play” with and “manipulate” language to teach how language is structured. We take language apart so that we can put it back together!
Dear Badger Families,
What a great night we had last night! I cannot thank the faculty and staff enough for their incredible energy and the expert way they share your child’s day and experiences with you. As I walked around visiting all of the classrooms and mingling with families in the hallways, I heard over and over again how much families liked their teachers and what a fabulous night it was.
Some families expressed they wish this night happened sooner in the year. We all completely agree with you and we wish it could happen sooner as well. Back to School Night is purposely scheduled this far into the year because of the way we assess and adjust our groups, especially the reading groups, at the beginning of the year. It takes time to really get to know the students and the group dynamics. We wouldn’t want you to meet one teacher only to find out the following week your child will be with a different teacher for the remainder of the year. Although we keep our minds open throughout the year to beneficial change, this has always been a good time to host Back to School Night.
Thank you for partnering with us! If you were unable to attend last night, please reach out to your child’s teachers directly. They will be happy to provide you with the information they shared last night. If you need a list of your child’s teachers, please reach out to my assistant, Renee Hecht, rhecht@craigschool.org.
Halloween is right around the corner and we are happy to invite our parents to campus again for our afternoon festivities. Celebrating Halloween the Friday before the holiday is a tradition at The Craig School. Please see the PACS Newsletter about Trunk or Treat participation and candy donations.
Have a great weekend,
Jennifer Guthrie
Director of the Lower & Middle School
October
A Huge THANK YOU to all the parents who signed to be Grade Parents. We appreciate all that you do. Also, A big Thank You to all the parents who helped make our Back to School Night so sweet and yummy with baked goods.
COFFEE WITH PACS
Come join PACS for coffee and conversation on October 17th 8:30-9:30am in the Lower/Middle School Cafeteria. We look forward to connecting with you and sharing all the ways to get involved with PACS.
TRUNK-OR-TREAT
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27TH @1:00PM
We still have slots open if you want to decorate your trunk for our Trunk or Treat.
Click here to sign up
Frost Valley
Badger Homework Support -
Monday, October
Wednesday
Thursday
Pick up is at 3:55 pm
October is Fire Prevention Month. At elementary schools across the country, firefighters are visiting, bringing trucks and equipment, talking to the students about safety, and showing what outstanding community helpers they are. The Craig School is no different. Friday morning the Mountain Lakes Fire Department came to campus and all students in grades 2-6 had a chance to visit with the firefighters, go on the fire truck, maybe try on some equipment, and get a fire hat. Understanding that our community is full of people who are helpful in a time of need, getting up close with people in uniforms that could be a little scary to some children, and learning about fire prevention and safety are all important lessons for our students. Thank you to Mr. Furlong for this annual October tradition.
Badger Soccer CO-ED for grades 5th to 8th.
10/17 Game 3:00-5:30 Peck/Away
For more information on ways of giving or to make a donation online you can clicking here.
