A year of curiosity, excitement, and tremendous academic growth awaits first graders at Bright School. Students learn greater independence to complete challenging tasks in our reading and writing workshops. Building on their foundation of numbers in early childhood, first graders begin to apply operational tasks and problem-solving skills in math. Students use their reading, writing and math skills in several memorable social studies projects throughout the year.
First grade is taught by Karen Smith, Jana Evans and Susanna Fricks, who is new to Bright School this year.
What do you like best about teaching first grade?
“One reason that I love teaching first grade is the thrill of watching students become real readers! Many develop a love for reading at this age and I love being a part of that,” said Mrs. Evans.
“I love first grade in particular because there are so many new things we get to teach the children, in particular, having those lightbulb moments as they learn to read, write and explore new things,” said Mrs. Smith
“I love this age because they grow so much and are so eager to learn! First grade is very different from kindergarten; they start learning how to be more independent, their academic skills really start to develop, and their reading skills grow so much from August to May. It’s really fun to be a part of that growth and get to see those skills start to click for them,” said Mrs. Fricks.
What are some of the highlights of the first grade year?
“A first grade favorite for me is our Nutcracker study. During the month of December we do all things Nutcracker. Our reading, writing, and even math activities have to do with this ballet. We wrap up the unit with a field trip to the Tivoli to watch a performance of the Nutcracker. This year we were able to watch a recorded production of it,” said Mrs. Evans.
“One of the highlights for me in our first grade year is when we study penguins. It is packed full of fun and so much learning takes place. We get to cross over into multiple subjects such as math, reading, and science. The children love every minute of it, and our unit is wrapped up with a 'Penguin Day' where we dress as penguins and do multiple hands-on activities to end this special time,” said Mrs. Smith.
“In the classroom, I am incorporating STEAM practices such as novel engineering, Maker Mats, and the Ozobot (coding) into our learning. This is not something new for me, but I am being more intentional about incorporating these activities since we aren’t able to do as many of the things we would normally do because of COVID,” said Mrs. Fricks.
What is some advice you would give parents about how to support their children in first grade?
“I would advise parents to read to and with their children every day. Encourage their interests and provide many rich learning opportunities for them,” said Mrs. Evans.
“As parents, your key role is to encourage your children in their growth as a student by helping them to become independent learners. My biggest piece of advice is to read to them and allow them to read to you!” said Mrs. Smith.
“Reading is so very important at this age. Students really need to be reading at least 20 minutes every night to help sharpen their skills and put into practice what they’re learning at school. I know some students struggle, so it can also help for them to be read to so they can hear what a fluent reader sounds like. It doesn’t have to just be reading books. Students can practice reading things like street signs, menus, cereal boxes, recipes, etc. If it has words on it, ask your child to help you read it!” said Mrs. Fricks.
Why should parents enroll their child at Bright?
“I have taught in several schools during my teaching career, and none come close to Bright. Our school has so much to offer its students and families. I love the way Bright School provides a great education but also helps children become better citizens,” said Mrs. Evans.
“First grade at Bright is fun, packed full of active learning, and a wonderful place to build friendships that will last a lifetime,” said Mrs. Smith.
“Your child will get more one-on-one attention at Bright than a typical school because the class sizes are much smaller than average. Having a small class size has allowed me to spend more time working closely with each student. This allows me to assess their individual needs and then focus on the skills they are struggling with, as well as, what areas they are ready to be challenged in,” said Mrs. Fricks.
