STUCK IN THE MIDDLE:
Tips for Surviving English 7

With summer over and the school year ahead, it is time to start thinking about ways to be successful in school.  English 7 may have been the furthest thing from your mind while you were out on the lake or basking in the sun, but it’s time to redirect your thinking.  Here are some helpful tips for surviving English 7 and your other classes this year:

Respect yourself, the school, your classmates, and Miss Carlson

Come to class on time and ready to learn—with the necessary items (paper, pen or pencil, books, homework)

Do your homework on time—don’t forget to turn it in!

Ask questions if the directions are unclear—if you’re not sure, someone else probably has the same question

Do you best and have a positive attitude

By following these simple suggestions, English 7 can actually be a lot of fun—believe it or not!

Who Is Miss Carlson?
The Mystery is Solved

 Miss Carlson is beginning her 5^th year as an English teacher at Beal City Schools. Miss Carlson grew up in the Upper Peninsula (which makes her a yooper) and graduated from a school that is a lot like Beal City, called North Dickinson. While in school, she played basketball, was in the band, served as the president of her class, and was the secretary of the student council. She also worked on the yearbook as a photographer, a hobby that has carried on into her adult life.

 After graduating 4^th in her class, Miss Carlson spent one year at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay before transferring to Central Michigan University. “The best thing about UWGB was that I got to live in ‘Packertown,’ but I am glad I transferred to CMU and found Beal City!” she mentioned. She is still attending CMU, and plans to get her master’s degree in Middle Level Education.

 Some of Miss Carlson’s favorite pastimes are spending time with friends an family, traveling, reading, listening to music, watching football (especially the Packers, and the Aggies of course), and walking. “Of course, teaching is also one of my things to do—especially middle school kids! They have a ton of energy, and they always keep me on my toes!”

CLASSROOM PROCEDURES
Now that you are in the 9^th grade, it may seem as if you are back to the bottom of the food chain.  Luckily for you, you get to end each day in a familiar place with familiar expectations.

Just in case your brain is still on summer mode, here is a review of what to do in Miss Carlson’s class: Be ready to go at the beginning of the class period.  If Miss Carlson is standing in the front of the room, it is time to start. Most days there will be instructions for you on the board at the beginning of the hour.  This helps you to know what is expected of you. No one is to touch anything on/in Miss Carlson’s desk without permission.  This goes for the computer area in the back of the classroom as well. The supply shelves are stocked with supplies for your use.  You are welcome to use them, but please put everything back where you found it. Ignore all bells you hear in this room.  I will dismiss you when it is time to go. Bring only appropriate materials to class.  Any “toys”, food, or other distractions need to stay in your locker. In addition, all of the handbook rules and procedures also apply in Miss Carlson’s class.

After you have read the information, sign below.  Share the information with a parent or guardian, and please have them sign as well. _________________________________ Student  _________________________________ Parent/Guardian GRADING SCALE: THE WAY TO AN “A”   A             100-93                   C+          79-77  A-            90-92                     C             76-73                                                 C-            72-77  B+           89-87  B              86-83                     D+          69-67  B-            82-80                     D             66-63                                                 D-            62-60  BELOW A 60 IS AN E.  LATE WORK WILL BE ACCEPTED, BUT THERE IS  A 10% PENALTY FOR EACH DAY IT IS LATE

Communication
The Key to Success!

Dear Parents/Guardians,
If you have any questions, let me know. The best time to reach me is between 12:00-1:30. I also check my email daily: jcarlson@edzone.net Please let me know of anything I can do to help your student be successful this year. I look forward to meeting you---or seeing you again!

          Thanks!
          Miss Jodi Carlson