Learn about the latest news in education and tips to help your kids thrive in elementary school. Delivered to your inbox every Tuesday. Primary Focus was founded by Natalie Parmenter, a former kindergarten teacher to guide parents through elementary school. We provide information that is often common knowledge to teachers but is not widely known among parents. Primary Focus is dedicated to enlightening parents on all things elementary school so their children can thrive.
Subtle hints parents usually miss
"It'll be fine by dusk light, I'm telling you baby"
Something in the Orange by Zach Bryan
It's been a while Reader,
This is my first newsletter of 2024, and I'm so happy you're here! There are endless things to keep us busy in this life, and it means a lot you've given a little of your time to Primary Focus.
What their teacher is trying to tell you...
ðĻ Midyear testing is happening and you are about to get a ton of data about your child. I urge you to listen closely to warnings. It's a lot easier to help your child now, than try to make changes in April.
Subtle comments: One thing to look out for on a report card is a description of how your child completes work. Read these report card comments:
- â Mary can independently complete addition assignments in class. She has mastered addition within 10.
- ð Mary can complete addition assignments with teacher support. She can complete addition problems within 5, but needs support within 10.
- ðĻ Mary is still mastering addition, and needs support from a teacher to complete assignments. Please keep practicing at home!
These comments have subtle differences, but paint very different pictures.
If you see a teacher indicating your child needs teacher support, that is a sign they are having trouble with the content or need more time to learn it. Reach out to ask if your child should be able to complete that type of assignment independently by now.
Why are teachers so subtle on progress reports and report cards?
Report cards are legal documents, so they are written differently than how your teacher would message you on ClassDojo.
We know that your child's report card may be used to judge them for admission at a private school or could even end up in front of a judge at a custody hearing. For this reason, the teacher may withhold some information.
I compare this to what your doctor said in your appointment, versus the notes they took for your medical record. The real communication is not happening on report cards, it's when you chat directly with the teacher.
Feeling confused about your child's test scores? Think they might need a different approach? Respond to this email to schedule a 1:1 call with me!
What's New?
ðĐ· Happy Heart: I had a quiet holiday this year. My husband had surgery and is healing beautifully. I took some time to reflect on data from Primary Focus. With your help, my channel grew 450% this year. I'm so thrilled all the hours have added up in such a big way.
ðïļ I want to hear from you: I'm planning out my videos for Q1, but it's always helpful to hear what you want. respond to this email with your education questions and interests! It may be featured in a reel, video, or livestream.
Things I Love (contains affiliate links)
ð I hate jeans: My favorite jeggings are 43% off today! They look like jeans, but are soft and stretchy like leggings. Perfect with an oversized sweater. The curvy fit is on sale too ð
ðïļ Random Act of Kindness: This was right around the time of year I was out of crayons for my class. According to Amazon I have bought this product 4 times before ð You can get 24 packs of Crayola crayons for $24 dollars today. A teacher will thank you.
ð A moment of peace: I got these shower steamers as a gift and love them. It turns my steamy shower into a spa and helps my sinuses too. Such a simple way to treat myself without any extra time/work.
ðŠī saved my plant: I have a plant that I've never been able to figure out. It is constantly thirsty, but then I overwater it ðĪĶðŧââïļ My sister in law got me an Olla for Christmas and it saved my plant! It slowly moistens the dirt without overwatering. I have the light blue one.
Have a great week!
Primary Focus Newsletter
Learn about the latest news in education and tips to help your kids thrive in elementary school. Delivered to your inbox every Tuesday. Primary Focus was founded by Natalie Parmenter, a former kindergarten teacher to guide parents through elementary school. We provide information that is often common knowledge to teachers but is not widely known among parents. Primary Focus is dedicated to enlightening parents on all things elementary school so their children can thrive.
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