Mary Lynch Newsletter
September 11, 2026
Pre - K
We have introduced the letters A and B, including recognizing the letters and beginning to connect each letter with its corresponding sound. In math, students have been introduced to the numbers 1 and 2 and are beginning to practice recognizing, counting, and representing these numbers. During our Tree Study, students will explore different types and parts of trees, observe changes in trees, learn new vocabulary, and use their senses to investigate the natural environment.
Throughout the year, families will receive information about classroom celebrations, special activities, and other important events through our classroom newsletters and Apptegy.
Students are working hard to learn our classroom routines and expectations. We are focusing on being kind, safe, responsible, and respectful while learning how to share, take turns, use our words, and solve problems with friends.
Please encourage your child to practice independence at home, including putting on and taking off their coat, managing their backpack and belongings, using the restroom independently, and cleaning up after themselves.
Kindergarten
Kindergarten Learning Update:
We have completed Kindergarten Bootcamp and are pencil, crayon, scissors, glue, highlighter, and play-dough certified! YAY! We are getting started in our phonics, reading, and math programs. We are learning all about our letter sounds and rhyming words. In reading, we have been learning and reciting several nursery rhymes. We even practiced jumping over a candlestick like Jack Be Nimble and tried cottage cheese like Little Miss Muffet. In math, it's been all about numbers 1-10! Be sure to check your child’s folder so they can show and tell you what they are learning about!
First Grade
First-grade students have been building foundational skills in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. They have been practicing letter sounds, sight words, reading simple texts, writing complete sentences, counting and comparing numbers, adding and subtracting, and following classroom routines. Students have also been learning how to work independently, communicate with classmates, and be responsible members of the classroom community.
Students will continue developing their reading fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, and writing skills. In math, they will work with addition and subtraction, place value, measurement, shapes, and problem-solving. Students will also explore age-appropriate topics in science and social studies while continuing to develop important skills such as cooperation, responsibility, problem-solving, and independence.
Students are learning to share, take turns, use kind words, follow directions, and help one another. We celebrate students who demonstrate responsibility, kindness, perseverance, good listening, and positive choices. First grade is also a time when students are becoming more independent and learning how their choices affect themselves and others.
Parents and guardians can help by making sure students arrive at school on time, get plenty of rest, bring needed supplies, and complete any assigned practice or reading at home. Please check backpacks, folders, and classroom communication regularly. Most importantly, encourage your child to talk about their school day and celebrate their effort and progress—not just their grades.
Read every day, even for 10–20 minutes.
Practice writing names, letters, words, and simple sentences.
Practice counting and basic addition/subtraction facts.
Encourage your child to explain their thinking and ask questions.
Help your child develop responsibility for their backpack and belongings.
Establish a consistent bedtime and morning routine.
Praise effort, kindness, and perseverance.
Stay connected with the teacher and communicate questions or concerns.
Remember that every child learns at their own pace. Encourage progress and celebrate small successes!
Second Grade
Second grade has been learning about the characteristics of fairy tales and tall tales. We have learned about several well known stories about Paul Bunyan, Casey Jones, and many others. In math students have learned about fact families and addition and subtraction facts. In social studies we have been learning about communities and neighborhoods. In science students have learned about different tools a scientist might use, and they have also learned about "matter".
Soon Second grade will be learning about Greek Myths and will be able to answer multiple choice questions that follow along with the stories.
- Please help to remind your child about being an important listener in school making sure we follow all the directions.
Please be sure to read with your child every night so we can log minutes in "beanstack".
- Stay focused and always try your best!
Third Grade
3rd graders are learning how to multiply and divide! They are also very busy with our new Language Arts program called CKLA. It encompasses phonics, reading, and writing all into one.
The third grade will be taking a field trip on September 16th. It's the 18th Annual 3rd Grade Wellness Day (formerly Kids Nutrition & Fitness Day)
Wednesday, September 16 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.
Legion Park in Sidney (morning gathering starting at the Shelter House)
