Welcome to one of the most incredible and exciting years in your child’s school career!  I am so excited to be a part of your child’s journey this year in second grade.  This is my sixth year teaching in the Somers School District.  Before coming to Somers, I taught for 12 years in the New York City Department of Education.  I am eager to meet your children in just a few short weeks! 

Second grade is an exciting time as your child embarks upon new adventures in the world of learning.  This is an important year for your child in which many transitions are made and new skills are acquired.  In order to make this year a positive learning experience for your child, I encourage you to take an active part in their learning by reading and writing with them, assisting with their homework and initiating discussions about what they are doing in school. 

It is my belief that children learn best when learning is meaningful and fun.  It is my goal to create this type of learning environment for your child.  My classroom is a community made up of different types of learners.  In my class, individual learning styles, interests and intelligences will not only be recognized, but celebrated daily. 

I believe that parent involvement is a critical aspect of successful learning.  We are partners in your child’s education.  In order to ensure a successful partnership between us, I will be communicating with you frequently in a variety of ways.  I have found that strong and consistent parent-teacher communication leads to academic success in students.

You can access the general second grade supply list by clicking on the, Supply List tab on my webpage.  In addition to these supplies, I have added a small list of items your child will need specifically for our class.  These supplies do not all need to be brought in on the first day.  If it is too much for your child to bring in at once, feel free to send them in over a few days.  Over the next few weeks, additional letters will be sent home with your child regarding other aspects of this year. 

I am looking forward to an exciting year ahead and hope to instill a love of learning in your child that will last throughout their school career.

If you have any questions or concerns throughout the year, please feel free to contact me at jpaperman@somersschools.org.

Sincerely,

Jessica Paperman