Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year! We are excited about having you and your child as a part of the Gifford C. Cole Middle School community and are committed to providing the best educational opportunities. We all look forward to an outstanding school year! The 2009-2010 school year will be full of learning, participating in and enjoying school activities, and developing life-long friendships.
Our primary goal, of course, is the academic success of our students as they prepare for high school. We have high academic standards and each of our students will meet those standards. For the parents, we ask that you become an active participant in your child’s education. Your participation is the single most critical factor in his/her achievement. It promotes student attendance, a focus on studies, and it reinforces the importance of achievement and education. Parents, as partners with the school send a very clear message to their students that learning matters and an education is the gateway to life as an adult.
As always, we encourage you and your student to be actively involved in daily learning. We want for parents to keep up with important activities and school events. We encourage you and your student to participate in all of the activities we provide. One secret to a successful school year is to set good routines right from the beginning. Here are some tips to consider:
• Children benefit from a schedule they can depend on and one that includes definite times for play, homework, meals, and sleep.
• Continue to share and stress reading with your children. It often contributes to a continued positive relationship and lively conversation.
• Take a few minutes every day to look at what your child brings home from school. Talk about the schoolwork together. In fact, if your student can explain the work to you, chances are that they know it very well.
• Set a regular time to do homework. Choose a familiar, consistent place (sometimes the kitchen table works well). Include the basics of reading (and thinking about characters and plot), reviewing math facts (how they are related to each other), memorizing spelling lists, etc.
• Recognize your child's efforts to improve their skills.
Your commitment to your child's education is a great way to start the new school year.
