Ms. Wilcox - Fourth/Fifth Grade

ABOUT THE TEACHER:
My name is Courtney Wilcox and I am beyond excited to be teaching fourth grade at Stratford Elementary. This is my fifth year teaching, and my first year in this district. I earned my BA at California State University, Monterey Bay and my multiple subject teaching credential at Brandman University. I am a former Stratford Cougar and am elated to be back!

DISCIPLINE:
The following quote embodies my classroom behavior plan:

"Discipline is teaching, not punishment." 


I believe in a fair, firm, and consistent approach to classroom behavior. The classroom environment is structured, organized and regulated by procedures and routines. Students are aware of the clear expectations, and the consequences that follow if expectations are not met. I utilize a clip chart to reinforce those expectations and consequences.  I believe children thrive in a a structured, warm, and engaging environment in which they are set up for success, enjoying themselves, and encouraging one another. 

HOMEWORK:
Homework is designed with an intentional and meaningful focus. Instead of giving a plethora of homework each night, students are required to focus on key skills that need to be practiced regularly: reading, writing, and word study. Other assignments are only deemed homework when they are not completed during the allotted class time. 

TECHNOLOGY:  
Our district is fortunate enough to have a one-to-one ratio with 
IPads for the students.  The students are allowed to utilize many apps and appropriate resources which reinforce material taught in the classroom.  

CURRICULUM: 
The curriculum in my class is driven by the Common Core State Standards. Our year is divided into integrated units that are based on these standards.

-The English/Language Arts curriculum our class uses is McGraw-Hill Wonders. This is used to address reading, language, grammar, and foundational skills. 

-The Math curriculum varies depending on which resource I feel is best suited for a particular standard/subject. The following curriculums are used fluidly:  McGraw-Hill-My Math, Georgia Docs, Engage NY, and Illustrative Mathematics. 

- The Social Studies Curriculum our class uses is: "Our California" by Scott Foresman. 

-The students also engage in daily Science, P.E four times a week, and STEM twice a week. These subjects are taught by other teachers. 

For more information on the Common Core Standards, please visit the link:
http://www.corestandards.org

  If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at 559-925-2605 ext. 2511 or email me at [email protected].