June 20, 2019
Dear Families,
In a letter I sent you last July, I told you how excited I was to be your child’s fourth grade teacher this year. Well, after 180 days as Room 9’s classroom teacher, I must tell you how sad I am the school year is ending. I enjoyed an incredible journey this year with your children, as we all grew academically, socially, and emotionally.
Our growth as a community was due in large part to who your children are and to you as parents. Your children’s passion for learning, their creativity in expressing themselves, and their willingness to take risks throughout the year made for meaningful daily dialogue in Room 9. I learned many things this year from your children that I will carry with me into the fall with a new group of anxious learners, one of which is students’ undeniable quest for learning.
In celebrating our last day together, your children and I discussed how academically, socially, and emotionally ready they are to face the challenges of 5th grade. I have no doubt that each student will have a very rewarding, meaningful, and successful year in Grade 5. I mentioned to each student yesterday in one-on-one closing meetings that I want and expect them to have a great summer break, with loads of fun and laughter. I also told them that occasional math practice (math apps, multiplication and division facts, long division, 2-digit by 2-digit multiplication) and literacy practice (literacy apps, reading, and visiting the library) during the summer would benefit them greatly as they move on to Grade 5.
One of my goals at the beginning of this year was to create a “community of learners.” I believe that working together we did just that. I am extremely proud of the accomplishments of each and every one of my students. Each student should feel good about his and her growth as a fourth grader.
Thank you for all your support during the year. I hope you and your family have a wonderful summer, and I look forward to seeing you some time in the fall at Fox Hill.
Sincerely,
David M. Daley
Grade 4 Teacher, Room 9
