Gecko Gazette

Welcome to a wonderful year of learning! For kindergarten, August is all about establishing classroom routines, learning to be kind, and dipping our toes into core subjects like reading and math. In ELA, we will explore books and print, identify and write uppercase and lowercase letters, learn sight words like I, the, a, and see, and chop syllables in words. We will read our very first decodable book, as well! In math, students will count, write, and recognize numbers 0-10, compare groups, and learn to use math tools. Students will learn communities they belong to in social studies, and become meteorologists in science. In every moment in between, students will build independence with social behaviors through weekly meetings reviewing key life skills (i.e. flexibility, caring) and consistent review of classroom jobs and routines.

Reminders:

• Please make sure your child brings a water bottle every day - good hydration fuels good learning!

• Make sure your child brings their folder to school each day - behavior charts inside will be marked daily and require parent initials.

• Read, read and read some more at home with your child! Reading at home is the best predictor of future language development and reading success.

First Grade is so excited to be back and ready to have another amazing year! Here’s a snapshot of what we’re learning this month:

Reading: We are working through our short vowel sounds, beginning with /a/. We are also identifying the character and setting in stories.

Math: We are exploring addition up to 10.

Writing: First graders are practicing making their first story, a class story.

Social Studies: Students are learning what the differences are between rules and laws.

Science: First graders will explore light, dark, and shadows throughout this month!

We look forward to seeing everyone at Curriculum night where we can dive more deeply into what to expect this coming year!

We are so excited to welcome you and your child to what is sure to be a wonderful year of learning, growth, and discovery. Second grade is a time of big academic leaps, growing independence, and exciting new challenges. This year, we’ll build strong reading and writing skills, explore numbers and problem-solving in math, dive into science investigations, and learn about our community and the world in social studies. Along the way, your child will also grow socially and emotionally as they learn to work together, solve problems, and become more confident learners.

We can’t wait to partner with you to make this an amazing year for your child!

Third grade is such an exciting year, and we are so excited to welcome our students into the classroom! This is a year full of growth, where students will become more confident readers, writers, and problem solvers. They will take on new challenges, build important skills, and discover just how much they are capable of achieving. In third grade, students begin to think more deeply, ask thoughtful questions, and explore the world around them in new ways. We are excited to watch them develop independence while still working together as a supportive classroom community. This year, they will strengthen their friendships, learn how to collaborate, and celebrate each other’s successes. We will explore exciting topics, dive into engaging projects, and create memories that will last for years to come. Every day will be a new opportunity for students to learn, grow, and shine. We are ready to encourage, guide, and cheer them on every step of the way. Third grade truly is a year of growth, and we cannot wait to see all the amazing things our students will accomplish!

We’re excited to kick off another fantastic year in 4th grade! We are especially thrilled to welcome Ms. Chong to our 4th grade team—she brings fresh energy and enthusiasm, and we know she’ll be a great addition to our group.

To start the year, we’ll focus on building a strong foundation in both academics and classroom routines. In math, students will begin with a growth mindset unit, helping them develop confidence, perseverance, and a positive approach to learning. From there, we’ll dive into our first major content area: place value—a critical building block for future math success.

In reading, we’ll begin by introducing students to the processes, routines, and expectations that will guide them throughout the year. Once those are in place, we’ll jump into Module 1, which sets the tone for the year’s reading comprehension and discussion work.

We’re looking forward to a year full of learning, growth, and success!

Welcome back to a new school year! We are thrilled to be your child’s sixth grade teachers and are looking forward to an exciting year ahead. As the oldest students on campus, your child will step into the important role of being a leader and role model for younger peers. This year, they'll have many opportunities to demonstrate kindness, responsibility, and respect, whether it’s by helping others, setting a positive example, or working hard in class. Their actions will help shape our school community and inspire those around them. It's going to be a memorable and meaningful year here at Desert Sage!

Reminder:

• Please make sure your child chargers their Chromebook each night.

Specials would like to welcome Coach Patena to the team! We have some important dates coming up for band and choir members.

• 5th grade Band Club will be on Tuesday afternoons from 3:30-4:30 beginning August 5.
• 6th grade Band Club will be on Wednesday afternoons beginning August 6th.
• Choir will start before school rehearsals at the end of the month. 4th grade rehearsals will be on Wednesday mornings beginning August 27. 5th and 6th grade rehearsals will be on Thursday mornings beginning August 28.

Message from Coach Patena: Hi Desert Sage Parents - My name is Coach Patena and I feel privileged to be back here as a PE Teacher!

Thanks for making me feel so welcome the last couple weeks. I can't wait to introduce new games and activities to your kids this year. We can also revisit some of those favorite activities that your kids have enjoyed in previous years here at Desert Sage - Go Geckos