Hi All,

Welcome to 4th Grade!  I am excited to start a new year and have lots of fun ideas to share with you all. I have met many of you over the years, but here's a brief bio. I've taught at Rio del Mar for 14 years, and it's my 4th year in 4th Grade.  I have 2 adult children who attended Rio, and live in the neighborhood with my husband. I love reading, including children's books, and play Bridge weekly (with Mrs. Clouse!) I love beach walks and am very grateful for the amazing summer we just had.
I also traveled to Italy and Kauai this summer.

I usually update the blog weekly, often on Sunday. Please try to check for new information weekly. Parents, if you subscribe to this blog in the space above, you will receive emails when I post. I won't be arranging volunteers until Back-to-School Night, but it'd be great if you submit driver information as we will have field trips in the fall.  If you wish to volunteer regularly, or even drive on a trip, you need to have fingerprints and TB tests on file with the office. This is a great time to get that taken care of.

This first week will be focused primarily on community, although we will be doing some great math activities from Jo Boaler's WIM (Week of Inspirational Math.) Google Youcubed if you want to read about it. The primary homework is assigned to the parents---you know the packet!  Please try to return it this first week, especially the Emergency Card. I'd also like you to email me with your preferred email addresses.

I have a small list of supplies, but provide all materials needed.  Our materials are mostly communal, and I find that many kids are distracted by cool new erasers, sharpeners, notebooks, etc. So I'd prefer you keep those items at home. If you wish to contribute to the class supplies, donations to the group are welcome.  I am also thrilled with gift cards to Amazon, Staples, Palace, and Bookshop Santa Cruz, as I make purchases throughout the year. Checks to our classroom fund are also handy!

Feel free to email with any questions,

Carroll Mayer