Burning Questions About 6th Grade LA/Reading

Welcome to 6th Grade

                                                                                                                   August 10, 2015

Dear 6^th grade Student and Parents,

Welcome to 6^th Grade!

Allow me to introduce myself, I am Melissa Barkus.  I teach 6^th grade Language Arts and Reading here at Marshall Elementary.  I’m so excited to begin the new school year and get to know each and everyone of you.

First, let me tell you a little about myself.  I grew up in Howard, Kansas and attended K-12 at West Elk.  I currently live in Eureka.  Aside from my eager and amusing 45+ students each year, I have one dog, Minnie.   
     What else can I say about me?  Well, I am not your traditional teacher. Teaching is actually my second career.  In 2004, I graduated from Southwestern College in Winfield with a Bachelor's in Elementary Education.  It was a good decision!  And, to make a long story short, I love my students! 
     This is my fifth year at Marshall Elementary.  I was hired in as a 4th grade teacher and then moved up to 6th grade three years ago.  I work with two seasoned teachers on my team, as well as a large group of wonderful people.
      There are so many things to learn, see and do in 6^th grade.  I can’t wait to teach them to you.  There are also lots of changes to look forward to as you grow and begin to transition from children into teenagers.  

Parents, I know that whether this is your first baby or your last one, you want them to be successful this year as well.  Together, you and I can make this an unforgettable year for your child.  “Research has proven that when parents and teachers work together, everyone benefits: students tend to earn higher grades, perform better on tests, attend school more regularly, have better behavior, and show more positive attitudes toward themselves and toward school.”  Andrea Canter, Ph.D., NCSP

Isn’t that what we all want?  So, I challenge you to get involved in your child’s education.  Attend a PTA or a SITE Council meeting, make a lunch date with your child once a week or even once a month.  Or, just stop by the classroom whenever you have a chance.  You can volunteer, or just observe a typical class period with your child – you are always welcome!  

Please feel free to email me or call the school at any time.  Or, feel free to text or call me at 620-222-4890 outside of school hours, if needed.  If you prefer to be contacted by text message, please make sure that I have a valid cell number for you. 

Again, students, Welcome to 6^th grade!  Parents, thank you for sharing your child with me.  It’s going to be a great year!        

                                                  Sincerely,

                                                  Ms. Melissa Barkus