August 2008

Dear Parents:

Welcome to the 2008-2009 school year at University Park.  This is my second year in HP and I am thrilled to be your child’s third grade teacher.  There are so many fun things to do and learn in third grade and I can’t wait to get started! 

While you will learn more about me throughout the year, I would like to tell you a little about my education and background.  I was born and raised in Wooster, Ohio – a small college town in Northeast Ohio.  I received my B.A. from West Virginia University and my M.P.A. from The Ohio State University (where I met my husband, Jon!).  I completed half of the required hours for my M.Ed. at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.   

We moved to Dallas almost four years ago so that Jon could accept a faculty position at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (Departments of Neuroscience and Pharmacology).  While we don't have any two-legged children, we are the proud “parents” of Emmy Lou, a three year old Yellow Lab.  In my free time, I love to read, walk our dog, spend time with Jon, and in the fall, cheer loudly for the Buckeyes (OH-IO)!

To ensure a successful year, I encourage the following:

Tune-In:  Ask your child what he/she is studying and look at the homework binder nightly.  Thursday folders will contain information not only from the classroom but also the school and district.  I will send a weekly Friday e-blast to keep you abreast of all classroom happenings and reminders. 

Ask Questions:  If you have any questions, concerns, or comments, please don’t hesitate to either call or email me (iannarl@hpisd.org).  I welcome all ideas and feedback!  My conference time is 9:45 to 10:45 (except for Thursdays).  Please be sure to schedule an appointment so that I am prepared and our time together is well spent. 

Homework:  You should expect that your child will have homework most nights.  You will always be able to find homework written in the homework binder.  I encourage you and your child to set up a scheduled time and place for homework.  Homework is an opportunity for students to independently practice and apply skills learned in class.  If you notice that your child is unable to complete an assignment on his/her own, please let me know.  I will contact you if I have any academic and/or behavioral concerns about your child or if he/she is turning in poor quality work.

Water-bottles:  I do not mind if students bring water bottles to class, as long as they do not have twist-off caps or become a distraction or disturbance.

I welcome and encourage you to partner with me in your child’s education this year.  I hope it’s the best year yet!

Best,

Lynn     

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