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Things Students Want to Know on the First Day of School

1. Am I in the right room?

If the schedule you were given says, Mr. Hernandez Room # C-2, then you are in the right
room. Every morning, I will greet each student as they arrive to my classroom, but on the first
day, I will have a list of student names to ensure everyone is where they need to be.

2. Where am I supposed to sit?

Each student will be assigned their own seat with their names on their desk before the first
day, and I will have them switch desks at the beginning of each new month in order for them to
become familiar with working with new partners.

3. What are the rules of the classroom?

Classroom rules, rewards and consequences, as well as classroom procedures will be
prominently displayed in my classroom, and I will examine and discuss with students during the
first week of class. You may also see this list under the About Me tab. I will give each student a
copy to keep in their folder, and one copy to be signed and returned at the beginning of the year.

4. What will I be doing this year?

I will send paperwork home with the students at the beginning of the year including a
handout of what we will be learning throughout the school year. Students will become familiar
with subject matter and materials that they are expected to know for the STAAR test in the spring
semester. Students will also learn about how to work well with others in group settings, and how
to become better students on an individual basis of achievement.

5. How will I be graded?

Student grades will be comprised of tests, quizzes, homework, and group participation
scores that the student earns. If a student has missing assignments, a student can earn a passing
grade by successfully completing the assignment within the six weeks timeframe.

6. Who is the teacher as a person?

I am a trained school counselor, so I have an ability to relate to others that I will bring to
class. I have spent many, many years as a student myself, so I can empathize with students
concerning all the challenges they face at this school.


7. Will the teacher treat me as a human being?

I treat every student as a respectable person, knowing that each child has the potential to
develop into an incredible adult, a world-class citizen, and remarkable achiever in the future. I
will give every student the opportunity to advance and grow academically, behaviorally, and
socially so they can learn how to best reach their goals.