Comanche Springs Elementary2010-2011

Parent Night

Art ClassIn art, we will be learning about famous

artists through history and applying their techniques to our own work. We will also be keeping a sketchbook journal so each student will have a record of their growth and improvement through the school year. The journals and folders will be kept in their homeroom teachers’ drawer (by the door in the fine arts room) until the end of the year, so Mrs. Porter can better log each student’s progress.

Music ClassThe music curriculum will be based on the

teachings of Orff and Kodaly. In the Orff methodology, the students will learn to use various instruments such as drums, xylophones, and recorders to experience musical concepts through performance. The Kodaly methodology incorporates syllables (solfege) and hand signs which will enhance music literacy and aid in teaching basic musical concepts.

GradesGrades are based on participation. Each

student will receive two or more grades per week for Fine Arts. The six week cycle break down for grades is as follows:Art Participation 30%Art Projects & assignments 20%Music Participation 30%Music Assignments 20%

Classroom Management:Nine Expectations For Living•We will value one another as unique and special individuals.

•We will not laugh at or make fun of a person’s mistakes, nor use sarcasm or putdowns.

•We will use good manners, saying “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me,” and allow others to go first.

•We will cheer each other to success.

•We will help one another whenever possible.

•We will recognize every effort and applaud it.

•We will encourage each other to do our best.

•We will practice virtuous living, using the Life Principles.

•We will use the Magic Triad.

Classroom Management:What Mrs. Porter tells the kids…•If you cause a problem, I will ask you to solve it.•If you cannot solve the problem or choose notto, I will assist you.•What I do will depend on the special person andthe special situation.•If you feel something is unfair, whisper to me,“I’m not sure that’s fair,” and we will talk.•If you cause a severe disruption, you will be sentimmediately to the principal.

Classroom Management:Pink SlipsIf you receive a pink slip from Mrs. Porter,

please sign it and return it to your student’s homeroom teacher.

They are merely for record keeping, and to allow you (the parents) to be involved with and “in the know” about our school-wide discipline plan.

I do not take away points from the student’s weekly grade for behavior as long as it does NOT interfere with their participation.

ProgramsEach year at Comanche Springs, the first

grade, third grade, and fifth grade classes will perform in a program or concert of sorts to fulfill the drama portion of the Fine Arts standards.

Dates and times of these events will be posted on my website as well as the CSES calendar, and notes will be sent home prior to the performances.

Recorders – pg. 1 of 2A yellow recorder note has been sent home with

each 4th and 5th grade student about recorders.If your student needs to purchase one, they may

return the yellow form and $5 CASH to me and I will make an order through the district.

The deadline for ordering through Mrs. Porter is September 17th.

After the deadline for orders, I will gather the forms and order the supplies needed for each student.

I will also send home a note to remind students who already have instruments to bring them on a certain date.

Recorders – pg. 2 of 2You are more than welcome to get recorders

from other vendors, however, please be cautious that you are purchasing a tuned instrument rather than a plastic toy. I can guarantee that Walmart and the Dollar Tree are NOT selling instruments.

The following are suggested vendors:Mr.E’s MusicRhythm Band InstrumentsMusic In Motion

Extra-curricular Groups:CSES Honor Choir – The Singin’ Spurs pg. 1The Honor Choir is open to 4th and 5th grade

students with musical talent, a passion for singing, and who are exemplary students both in conduct and grades.

The Singin’ Spurs are an extracurricular performing group, and meet most Thursdays between October and May from 3:00-4:00PM

Auditions are in progress and my goal is to post the results after everyone has had a chance to audition. That being said, my final audition date is September 23rd, therefore, expect to find out the results AFTER that audition date.

Extra-curricular Groups:CSES Honor Choir – The Singin’ Spurs pg. 2Upon acceptance into the choir, the student will

receive an information letter as well as a contract that will need to be signed by the student, their parent, their teacher, and myself. This will ensure that all parties are aware of the expectations and responsibilities.

The student will also be required to pay $15 for dues, which will cover the cost of their shirt, their folder, choir music & performance rights, as well as any other expense necessary for the choir (bus transportation, etc.).

Extra-curricular Groups:EM-S Youth ChoirThis is a SEPARATE choir from the CSES

Singin’ Spurs. The auditions for this group are on Saturday,

September 18th and cost for joining is $100 per semester and rehearsals are on Tuesdays

If you have questions about this choir, please contact Melissa Miller at :

<melissamiller0719@sbcglobal.net>

As always…If you have questions or concerns about fine

arts, please contact me atkporter@ems-isd.net

Or

817-847-8700 ext. 2154