Ms. Vanessa's Web Page

Vanessa Halliday

Room 14

email: vhaliday@lgusd.k12.ca.us

(408) 335-2153

August 22, 2011

Dear Families,

Welcome back to school and welcome to first grade! I am very excited about my second year teaching at Daves Elementary and am looking forward to getting to know you and your family. This is my seventh year teaching. I have taught kindergarten for three years and this is my fourth year teaching first grade. I am trained in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program and have my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential with an emphasis in early childhood education. I will be finishing up a MA in Education and receiving my Administrative Credential next summer!

My class is designed to use the best teaching practices and to nurture and develop the natural talents of my students. Students are encouraged to fulfill their potential in a happy learning environment and to develop a love of learning that will last their whole life long. Students are provided with many opportunities to actively explore, think, question, create, and solve problems, as well as learn to communicate with others. They are taught to appreciate and care for the world and enjoy their achievements together.

Although Daves in not an International Baccalaureate authorized school, many of the topics studied in our class will follow the Primary Years Program philosophy. This structured inquiry gives the children and me opportunities to direct the learning process. Students are encouraged to take an active role in their learning and are motivated to become responsible and compassionate citizens, critical and creative thinkers, and life-long learners. The Primary Years Program fits naturally with my teaching style and it allows me to use my creative spirit to guide students on a journey of life-long learning.

In first grade, a very strong importance is placed on social development. I encourage children to be caring and well-balanced individuals who can begin to take responsibility for themselves and for others. I believe that positive attitudes are just as important as academic achievements. Activities that promote positive attitudes toward people, the environment, and toward learning are incorporated into all aspects of learning. I strive to develop the whole child academically, socially, culturally, physically, and emotionally.

Family participation and support is one of the top factors to a child’s success in school. I encourage you to share in this opportunity to support your child’s success. As a parent, you are your child’s first and most important teacher. There are many things that you, as parents, can do to help your child adjust easily and eagerly to first grade. Your child has a natural love of learning. Every first-hand experience that your child can have can teach him/her important skills. Enjoy this time! Your enthusiasm and involvement will help make your child’s first grade experience a wonderful year for both of you.

Thank You,

Vanessa Halliday