Springing into May

Good Afternoon,

It’s hard to believe we’re already a full week into May—time is officially flying! With that, it feels like we have entered into the home stretch of the school year, and this is such an important time to help our leaders stay motivated, focused, and engaged as we work toward the finish line together. It truly takes a team effort, and I’m so grateful for all the ways you continue to support your child’s learning at home. Thank you for partnering with me every step of the way. Let’s finish the year strong!

Week in Review:

Leader in Me: This week we learned to successfully collaborate with a team. We learned how feedback can help us find synergy. Invite your learner to use the Synergizer resource on Leader in Me Online and guide the family in resting a plan for a challenge you may be facing.

Writing: This week in 4th grade writing, our writers wrapped up Bend 1 of our graphic novels unit with an exciting Artist Alley Celebration, where they proudly shared their work. We then launched Bend 2 by generating powerful true stories to turn into graphic novels. Students practiced planning their stories by creating page-turner panels in a book map, pacing their stories with tiers, and revising their plans by stretching out key moments.

Math: This week in 4th grade math, our mathematicians wrapped up their work on comparing fractions with unlike denominators and had fun practicing their skills with a Fraction Showdown! We then moved into exploring decimals, using hundredths grids and decimal strips to build a strong foundation. Students practiced comparing decimal fractions and decimal numbers, making great connections between fractions and decimals along the way.

Reading: This week in 4th grade reading, our readers continued exploring historical fiction by deepening their interpretations through collaboration and close reading. We practiced paying attention to minor characters and used self-assessment tools to reflect on the strength of our interpretations. As we moved forward, we turned to primary sources and added background information to help us better understand the historical context in our books. 

Content: This week in 4th grade social studies, our students explored how producers make economic decisions by considering opportunity costs. They put themselves in the shoes of entrepreneurs—surveying their classmates to assess needs and wants, analyzing market demand, and identifying potential business opportunities. We also learned about economic growth in our state, looking at how different industries have shaped the landscape and community over time. To apply their learning, students created a business plan describing what they would produce, how they would produce it, and who their product would serve. They practiced giving kind, helpful, and specific feedback to a partner, then revised their work using that feedback.

  • Thank you to a parent who shared this great resource which can benefit your 4th grader and family! Every fourth grader in the US is eligible to receive a free pass for their family to visit America’s natural wonders and historic sites, which accesses hundreds of parks, lands and waters for an entire year! Visit everykidoutdoors.gov/rules.htm for more information and to get your pass!


A Look Ahead:

  • May 12th - Family Night RSVPS Due
  • May 20th - Family Night with Community Clothes Closet 5:00-6:30
  • May 23rd - Early Dismissal (11:30)
  • May 26th - No School
  • May 29th - 4th Grade Concert
  • May 30th - Impact project celebration in classroom for families to attend 
  • June 3rd - Field Day
  • June 4th - 4th Grade Walk to Library & End of Year Picnic 
  • June 4th - Cafe Krueger Celebration
  • June 5th - Last Day of School; Early Dismissal (11:30)


That's all for this week!

Have a great weekend!


Mr. VW




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