<h2>Dear Families,</h2>
Oh, the excitement!!!  Our <strong>“Earth Day Documentary” </strong>officially had its status changed to <strong>Fully Funded</strong> as of last Thursday!  The kids were raring to go when we began pre-production talks on Friday.  As I’ve mentioned, all of the students will have the opportunity not only to produce, but to appear in the film – as long as parents have approved, signed, and returned the media release forms. There are plenty of ways to participate for students who do not have permission but please let me know if you change your mind and I will supply you with a new form before taping.

In the meantime, please work with your child by pointing out some easy “planet-saving” efforts that can be made everyday – such as recycling, and water and energy conservation.  These extracurricular experiences will help your child feel more like an expert when the time comes to teach their peers.  The making of our film will include a formal research project that may require adult assistance.  I will send the criteria for that as the time approaches.
<h2>This Week, We Learned</h2>
This week, we introduced a new facet to our writing called the Response Journal.  The Response Journal is basically an open written dialogue between student and teacher kept in a composition notebook here in class.  The response journal not only allows the students to become even more proficient at reading and writing, but offers us an opportunity to practice conversation.  Response Journals will be available for you to review during your visits and will go home at the end of the year.
<h2>Next Week, We Will</h2>
Next week, we will take our Everyday Math Mid-Term Assessment.  This is a long exam so I will break it into two parts and we will test on both Tuesday and Wednesday, following our Monday review.
<h2>Reminders</h2>
<strong>There is no school on Friday, January 29, 2010.</strong>

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<h2>Announcements</h2>
We have 2 <strong>Field Trips</strong> in March. Please send in written permission and fees if you have not already done so.  Also, students must bring a bagged lunch (clearly labeled) for both trips.

The beginning of a new month is upon us, please send one days worth of snack for the class.  We currently have 31 students.
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<h2>Thank Yous</h2>
Thank you to all of the parents who continue to send snacks (sometimes more than their fair share!)

Extra special thanks to the families of Justin, Yasmin, and Ria for their financial support!  I’m not sure our documentary would have been possible without them.
<h3>emrosa@cps.edu</h3>