Fluency
Fluency is defined as the ability to read with speed, accuracy, and proper expression. Fluency is "reading as we talk". In order to understand what they read, students must be able to read fluently whether they are reading aloud or silently. When reading aloud, fluent readers read in phrases and add intonation appropriately. Their reading is smooth and has expression.
Read Along & Sing Along for Fluency
Singing songs while looking at the lyrics, or words to the songs, is an excellent way to build fluency. As a student looks at the song lyrics while singing along, reading accuracy, speed, and proper expression improves. The example shared below is “The Good Morning Song.” A copy of the lyrics is linked below, as well as a link to a YouTube video of the song with the lyrics on the screen.
Repeated readings of the lyrics, while singing along, will strengthen your student’s letter and word recognition reading skills. Songs will also help your student with expression and phrasing. Have your student point to the words while singing along. After singing the song multiple times, you can point to words for your student to read, or have your student practice reading phrases. You can even challenge your student to read the whole song.
There are countless videos for children with lyrics on the internet. Repeated singing and reading will increase fluency. Enjoy!
Link to the Song Lyrics - "The Good Morning Song"
https://www.scribd.com/document/426600312/Good-Morning-Song-for-Kids
Link to the YouTube Video of "The Good Morning Song" with Lyrics:
https://youtu.be/RPA6ZXvcY0U?si=m_xC1ajG3UYNaLE5
Reading Together for Fluency
Reading aloud together can build fluency! As you read together, your student will grow in their ability to read in phrases and with expression. Try this activity with The Snowy Day or any other book or text that your student can read with very few errors.
1. Read a section of a book or text aloud to your student while they follow along with their finger. Listening to you read allows your student to hear a model of fluent reading!
2. Reread the same section aloud with your student. Try to read with "one voice." As you both read , use your finger to track the words to lead your student as you read.
3. Reread that section a few more times together.
4. Have your student read that section to you!
5. Download the script of The Snowy Day and perform it as a play to enhance your fluency practice!
Very respectfully,
Mrs. Tomes
This month of February, we celebrate the strength of Black history. Scholars will be enriched each day not only by the daily academics taught year round, but also by the experiences of Black people which is an inspiration to people of all racial backgrounds. Just like every month, we find joy in seeing scholars in school every day that they are well in their health. If students are sick, please reach out to teachers as soon as possible for work that scholars can do remotely, from home while they are out. With the current flu season we want to encourage everyone to apply ways to stay healthy including:
Drinking lots of water to help keep the inside of our body clean
Eating lots of fruits and vegetables and limiting sugar
Going to sleep early at night for a good night's rest
Getting exercise, sunlight and fresh air as often as possible
Maintaining a good balance in life and being at peace
In February we continue with the monthly incentives of classes earning perfect attendance days when everyone is present. Stickers will be placed on classroom calendars so everyone knows how many they have earned so far. Classes must earn at least 15 days of perfect attendance this February to be eligible to win the reward. The reward is that one class in each grade (K - 6) that has the highest number of perfect attendance days (at least 15) will win a Popcorn Party and get to watch a movie! Let’s ace attendance and ace life!
Attendance Officer
Mandisa Thornton
What Is Meant by Parental Involvement at School?
What do these studies and research mean by parent involvement at school? Parental involvement can be aptly described as the active and ongoing participation of a parent or primary caregiver in the education process of their child. There are several ways in which parents can contribute at home – reading with children, monitoring homework, and discussing school day and events.
At school, parents could contribute by volunteering in classrooms, attending parent-teacher meetings, helping with organizing functions. Parental involvement and academic achievement are directly proportional to each other. Schools with enthusiastic parents involve, engage, and communicate with them which incorporates them in the learning process. This has a positive impact on the academic and overall achievement levels of the child.
Thank you!
Ann Elkins
Dear Parents and Students,
As we settle into the second semester of school, we would like to take a moment to share some key insights and tips that can help all of us navigate school life with kindness, confidence, and a positive mindset. Whether you’re a student learning to build relationships or a parent supporting your child, these themes are essential for fostering a healthy, supportive school environment. Let’s dive into a few important topics that can make a big difference for everyone!
1. Learning How to Get Along with Your Classmates
Friendships and social connections are a big part of the school experience, but it’s important to remember that we’re all different. Respecting each other’s differences, being kind, and practicing good communication are vital skills to help build lasting relationships. Encourage your child to approach challenges with an open heart, listen actively, and always be willing to understand other perspectives. We all grow together when we support each other.
2. Stop Bullying
Bullying has no place in our school community. Whether it’s physical, verbal, or social bullying, it affects the well-being of everyone involved. As we work toward creating a safe, inclusive environment, we ask students to be mindful of how their words and actions can impact others. If you witness bullying, don’t be afraid to speak up. Together, we can stop bullying and make sure every student feels respected and valued.
3. Focus on Yourself and the Positive
Focusing on personal growth and positivity is key to building confidence and resilience. It’s important to remind ourselves that everyone faces challenges, but we can always learn from them. Encourage your child to celebrate their successes, no matter how big or small, and to always look for the positive in any situation. When we focus on the good, we can create an atmosphere of support, self-love, and growth.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
As your school counselor, we are here to support every student and family in creating a positive, caring environment where everyone can thrive. Let’s continue to encourage each other and focus on kindness, self-confidence, and respect. By working together, we can ensure this is a year of growth, understanding, and positivity for all.
Celebrate Black History with Fun Facts!
1. Martin Luther King Jr. – A leader in the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. King is best known for his role
in advancing racial equality through nonviolent protests. His iconic I Have a Dream speech, was
delivered during the 1963 March on.
2. Rosa Parks – Often referred to as the mother of the civil rights movement Rosa Parks sparked
the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955 when she refused to give up her seat to a white man on a
segregated bus. Her courageous act of defiance became a pivotal moment in the fight against
segregation and helped propel the Civil Rights Movement forward.
