Dr. Charles C. Polk Elementary School Roselle Public Schools

September 12, 2017

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are very excited to introduce a change in our approach to our instruction in grades 3 and 4 for the 2017-18 school year.  Dr. Charles C. Polk Elementary School has departmentalized all subject areas.  This translates into the following:

• One teacher instructing Mathematics

• One teacher instructing Reading and Writing

• One teacher instructing Social Studies and Science

Departmentalization is a type of team teaching in which teachers teach as specialists in one or more content areas.  It also allows teachers to teach in areas of specialization while students move from one classroom to another for instruction.   Each student will have a homeroom class in which they report to every morning. They will then rotate to their scheduled classes.

Benefits of departmentalizing in grades 3 & 4:

• Students get exposure to multiple teaching and learning styles which will enrich their educational experience

• Students will need to enhance their organizational skills and learn to transition more effectively

• Students get regular breaks within their day through transition time

• Students are supported by all teachers

• Teachers have equal ownership of all students

• Students participate in differentiated, flexible groups targeted toward their learning needs

• Teachers increase their content knowledge

• Teachers improve their ability to differentiate

• Teachers are able to complete more in-depth lessons in a specific area

• Teachers get to know many more students in the grade level not just “their class”

• Teachers have more opportunities for collaboration to support student achievement

• Students are better prepared for Middle School

We have reviewed data and created a master schedule in an effort to maximize instruction and reduce disruptions.  We will maintain and improve our level of communication with parents to ensure that all students’ needs are being met in every class.  If you have questions, concerns or suggestions, please contact Dr. Charles. C Polk School to speak with your child’s teacher.

We will be sure to monitor the effectiveness of this model to ensure success for all students. Remember, every day is a great day for learning at Polk School!    

Thank you.

Andreea Harry
Principal