Hello,

My name is Molly McClelland, I am Jill George’s student teacher. I’ve been in class with your children since the end of January and will continue to be in class till early May. Through this message I wanted to touch base and give you updates.

First, I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know your kids plus helping them with their academics. With 3rd quarter ending on Friday, I wanted to get everyone on the same page and fill you in on expectations for your student’s final semester at Valley Southwoods. Within their Skills class, I have been teaching self-advocacy plus stressing skills they will need in order to be successful at Valley as well as in their post-secondary lives. Entering the final quarter, classes will not get any easier. While trying to guide and prepare the kids, Jill and I have decided to help them become more independent by expecting the students become more responsible and in control of their academics. Instead of requiring them to come in during lunches, we are providing opportunities to come before school to get help, ask questions, or even just have work time. But no one is taken the offer. I and/or Jill are at school by 7:15 every morning providing students the chance to work till 8:20, when school begins. Knowing that school is not going to get easier, I am hoping the kids will start taking advantage of this time. Especially when students are not understanding material, not asking questions, or performing poorly on assignments and assessments. I am looking for students to take initiative with their work. My hope by reaching out is that you all can push your kids to benefit from these opportunities. I would like the students to get in the habit of using these

chances plus utilizing various resources that include Jill, myself, and their core subject teachers because it is necessary for their success currently and in the future.

You all know you child best, so if there are strategies or approaches to help your student finish the year strong please let us know.

I appreciate your time and am looking forward to finishing out the semester!

Thanks,

Molly McClelland