Greetings! My name is Mrs. aRusso and I will be teaching seventh and eighth grade science at WMS this year. This is my first year teaching at WMS. In the past, I have taught middle school science and fifth grade. I have worked in public and private schools, as well as, formal and informal educational institutions. I currently hold a BA in Elementary Education, General Science and a Graduate Endorsement in Middle Level Education. I am excited to kick-off this school year with you (or your son/daughter). Together we are going to have a creative, fun and successful year. By providing meaningful work and holding high expectations for you (or your son/daughter), I am giving you (them) the tools you (he/she) will need for High School and their future.
What to expect this year as a 7th/8th grade scientist (or parent of a scientist): Throughout the year students will be focusing on scientific inquiry that meets the Next Generation Science Standards. Student skills will be developed through hands-on activities, cooperative learning, independent work, projects, discussions and investigations. Student assessments will be conducted through tests, projects, class work and homework.
Tools for Success: Each student needs the following for a successful school year:
Students must come to school READY to learn (8-10 hours of sleep, completed homework presented on due date, supplies)
Students must be RESPECTFUL in order to keep our classroom/school a place of safety, peace, and learning.
RESPONSIBILITY: Myself, the student and their family are all responsible for a successful year of learning, development and progress.
Grading: Students are graded using rubrics and percentile scales in the following areas:.
Lab Reports
Homework
Class Work
Assessments
Projects
Policies:
If a student is absent, they must make up all of their missing work (including homework, classwork, assessments and projects).
Homework is given every night except Fridays (with the exception of projects and homework passes). Homework helps a student practice what they have learned throughout the day and helps to turn information into knowledge.
Within our classroom, we follow all of the guidelines listed in the WMS handbook.
I am looking forward to a successful year with everyone!