Laingsburg Elementary School

Dear 5th Grade Parents:

Welcome to the wonderful world of fifth Grade at Laingsburg Elementary. It is here that your ever changing and growing son or daughter will encounter new and exciting experiences. I am here to guide them along and help him or her grow to their utmost potential.

My name is Dean Meyer and this is my ninth year at Laingsburg.  I attended M. S. U. for my B.A. in education and my M. A. in curriculum and teaching. I previously taught for three years at I. H. M. - St. Casimir Middle School in Lansing. I am married, my wife’s name is Kathy, and we have a son, Joshua, who is 12 ½ years old and daughter, Katelyn, who is almost 11 years old.    Both of my children chose to switch schools and join me for their 5th grade year in Laingsburg.  So I understand what it means to be a "Meyer Island" parent in terms of expectations!  On the topic of family, my father, Dennis, aka "Papa", will also be volunteering his time throughout the year mentoring students.  He is eager to work with such bright and talented children! 

This year we will accomplish many goals as the students continue on their road of growth and education. I look forward to the success of various cooperative learning projects throughout the year in math, social studies, science, and language arts. This year I plan for investing, economics, and civics to be continuing themes in math and social studies throughout the year. We will also study other interdisciplinary themes throughout the year (i.e. March Madness, Web 2.0, Stock Market / Investing / Economics / Mini-Society).

I know and understand your need as a parent to be informed of the events in the life of your fifth grade student. Therefore, I’ll be utilizing the assignment notebook to convey messages back and forth between school and home. At the beginning and end of each day the students will write in their Assignment Notebooks all assignments, daily homework and any reminders. Assignments will have clear due dates. You must look at the Assignment Notebook on a daily basis and put your signature at the end of each completed assignment. Please assist your child in checking that all assignments are complete and ready to go to school the next day.

I also will be sending home missing work lists every Friday. They will assist in keeping you informed of your child’s progress. I ask that the progress notes be signed in a manner similar to the Assignment Notebooks and returned with any missing / late work on the next school day. Keeping in touch is important to our success. If you have any questions or concerns you may reach me at school (651-5067 x1138) or by e-mail (meyerisland@gmail.com).

One of my strong points is using technology to foster learning.  We will be utilizing our computer labs often during the week, utilizing Microsoft Office applications, Google docs, Web 2.0 applications, and iMovie.  Please visit our classroom webpage at www.meyerisland.inspiringteachers.com .  It is updated often with news, and homework assignment listings, pictures, and student work.  Students will be utilizing Google docs & spreadsheets, blogs, and wikis extensively throughout the year, developing their technical skills for success in  the 21st century classroom and workplace.

Open House is tonight, Wednesday, September 9th from 6:00 to 7:30.  I hope to see you at this informative meeting. Your questions will be answered and curriculum issues will be addressed.

I look forward to working closely with each of you in order to create an atmosphere that is best suited for academic, social, and emotional growth of your child.

 Sincerely,

  Mr. Dean Meyer