To Parents and Students,
I am very excited to be teaching English this year. This is my second year at Castle South Middle School. I taught fifth grade for three years in Tennessee before moving to Indiana. Prior to teaching, I spent time in the United States Air Force. I am a native of Maryland, and have been living in Newburgh for the past year and a half with my husband Matt, our two dogs, two cats, and parrot.
We will be learning and growing together this year. We will be developing academic and organizational skills, self-confidence, and responsibility as we prepare for high school. I have high expectations for myself and each student, and my goal is to help each student achieve his or her goals.
I am looking forward to a very rewarding year!
Mrs. Carpenter
Information to know:
I require each student to fill out their agenda daily and to have a folder and notebook specifically for English. We will be taking lots of notes and I periodically check notes and agendas for a participation grade. Student notes are a great resource for ISTEP review.
Student grades should never be a surprise in this class. Some assignments take longer to grade than others, but I work very hard to ensure that my on-line grade book is updated frequently and accurately. I encourage all parents and students to utilize this resource to help track progress and performance level in class.
Grading:
Tests/Quizzes = 35% ; Homework = 35% ; Projects = 20% ; Participation = 10%
Homework:
Students can expect homework almost daily. Homework reinforces skills taught in class and is also practice for tests.
Late Homework Policy:
To receive full credit, assignments must be completed on-time. For the first semester, assignments will be accepted one day late for half credit. After the first semester, late assignments will not be accepted. In the case of absence, the student will be given one day for each day of absence to complete missed work. Teacher discretion will be used for other circumstances.
Classroom rules:
Be respectful.
Treat people, property, and self with respect at all times.
Do not interrupt teaching or presentations
Please stay seated until you are dismissed for your next class period.
Be prepared.
Bring everything you need for class with you (notebook, agenda, book, pens/pencils, and novel).
Have your completed homework and projects
Sharpen pencils before class begins.
Be responsible.
Be on time to class and begin your warm-up immediately.
Assignments need to be turned in on time.
Head all papers with name and class period.