September 5, 2013

To the caregivers of students in Mrs. Olsen’s Spanish class:

Attached you will find a classroom contract that outlines learning and behavior expectations for the upcoming school year. Once you have reviewed the document please sign along with your child to confirm that you are aware of the expectations.

My class is not only about teaching the language of Spanish, but also about culture. As a highly diverse community, I encourage students to share their culture with the class. Please let me know if you have any interest in sharing your culture with the class.

Please do not hesitate to contact me any time throughout the school year for whatever reason. You may reach me on email most effectively at [email protected].

I maintain a website for you to access the latest information pertaining to the class and where my students can post their work electronically: sraolsen.wikispaces.com

I truly look forward to a successful school year and hope to see you at Parent Teacher nights.

Sincerely,

Susan Olsen Spanish Teacher Spanish class 2012-2013 Señora Olsen “Maestra” solsen @ k 12. somerville . ma .us class website: www.sraolsen.wikispaces.com

¡Bienvenidos a la clase de español!

Course objectives: 1. Students will develop speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in Spanish. 2. Students will acquire knowledge and develop an appreciation for cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. 3. Students will use new technologies and media to acquire 21st Century skills.

Classroom materials and organization:

Please bring a binder with paper to take notes and stay organized. You will receive multiple hand-outs so a three ring binder is essential! You can keep a folder in class for your notes and handouts as well. Always bring to class something to write with and the assignments that are due that day. You may leave the textbook in class if you can access it online (I will give instructions on how to do that). Textbooks must be properly covered and free from any marks or loose papers.

Your grade is calculated by a combination of the following categories:

1. Class participation includes completion of in-class assignments and active participation. 2. Homework must be complete on the day it is due and cannot be made up unless you had an excused absence. Incomplete homework will not be accepted. 3. Quizzes will occur often to help you retain the new material. 4. Tests, midterms and finals are always worth 25% of your grade. 5. Projects my personal favorite and are always worth at least 25% of your grade.

Classroom expectations:

● After an excused absence, you have two weeks to make up the work. You are responsible for finding out what you missed during your absence by seeing me. The official after school help day for the World Language department is Monday. Always schedule an appointment with me for making up work. Do not wait until the end of the term to make up work, the two week policy will be strictly enforced. ● If you are late to class without a valid excuse you cannot interrupt me nor make up work such as homework that was collected and reviewed because you were not present. ● Good behavior is required at all times in order for all of us to learn from one another and have an all-around positive experience in Spanish class. ● Remain seated until the bell rings to officially end the class. ● Bags and backpacks must be kept under your chair. Only materials for class may remain on the desk. ● Chewing gum and eating is not allowed. You may only drink water at your desk. ● No sleeping or resting on the desk. ● Student IDs must be worn upon entering the classroom and remain worn throughout the class. ● You must sign in and sign out when you leave class for any reason in the log book. ● Use of electronic devices is prohibited; headphones and hats may not be in sight.

I truly enjoy teaching Spanish and the students of Somerville High School. I look forward to a wonderful school year and hope you enjoy the class. Please sign (both parties) and keep this document at the front of your Spanish binder to refer to as necessary.

Student’s name printed: ______

I have read and understand your course expectations.

Student Signature Date

Parent/guardian signature Date