Hello everyone.  I hope that you are enjoying these 70 degree days.  Please be aware that our classroom does not have working air conditioning, and is typically very hot.  It is suggested that students dress in layers so that they may remove sweaters to be cool once the room heats up in the afternoon.  I also suggest that students bring a water bottle to school to remain hydrated in the hot weather.

UP Education Network has launched a new web page for UP Academy Holland - you can access this page through this link:  http://upeducationnetwork.org/up-academy-holland/

There are also two informational meetings scheduled for nexxt week:
Family Information Session
Tuesday, April 15, 2014 (6:00PM - 7:00PM)
John P. Holland Elementary School Cafeteria
85 Olney Street, Dorchester, MA

Family Council Planning Session
Tuesday, April 15, 2014 (7:00PM - 8:00PM)
John P. Holland Elementary School Cafeteria
85 Olney Street, Dorchester, MA

Please also note that although I am very willing and excited to meet with any parent who wishes to speak to me, you must have an appointment to do so.  I cannot meet with parents who come in to talk during instructional time.  I would also like to remind you that you must check in with the office prior to visiting any classrooms.

There will be no school on Friday, April 18th in observation of Good Friday.   There is no school from 4/21-4/25 due to the spring vacation, and students will return to school on Monday, April 28th.   A Happy Easter to all who celebrate!   ~  Mrs. Mark

Along with the arrival of the warm weather, some unwanted behaviors have also arrived in room 212.  Students talking out, walking around the classroom, stealing, and destroying property all take away from important learning and instruction.  I want to take this time to review the rules and expectations of our classroom.

The rules are simple:
1.  Follow directions the first time they are given.
2.  Raise your hand to speak or leave your seat.
3.  Respect your teacher, your classmates and your school.
4.  Keep hands and feet to yourself.

The consequences for breaking these rules:
Green:  I am doing fine :)
Yellow:  Warning - time to make some changes.
Orange:  Time out - I need to sit separate from the class for 20 minutes to finish my work alone.  I can use this time to reflect on how to change my day around.
Red:  Parent letter - a letter will be emailed or sent home for my parents - I will stay in time out until the end of the day.  If my parents don't respond, I will call them during recess tomorrow to tell them of my behavior.
Purple: I will lose an activity and/or a recess.  


Students who continue to be disruptive after receiving a purple card will be referred to Saturday Detention. If this does not help behavior they may receive a suspension.  

With your support we can ensure that each child in my classroom learns in a peaceful and safe environment. ~ Mrs. Mark