Parents:
You've already seen 6th Grade, and your child has already developed some patterns as a student,  but nothing is written in stone at their age. My first or second year at Ripp, I had a student enter 8th grade who was determined to improve as a student. He worked hard to improve his reading, and it paid off. He improved his CMT scores by 17%, a huge leap. (Marcus D., if you're out there, send me a message).

With that in mind, here is a friendly idea you could use (or not; your call):
 Encourage your child to read ...anything.  It pays great rewards, it's never too late, and there's something for every interest. See "How to Raise a Reader", https://www.nytimes.com/guides/books/how-to-raise-a-reader.  It starts with you.

Also, some Verizon stores are apparently giving away free school supplies.
"On Sunday, July 23rd from 1PM-4PM, select Verizon Wireless Zone Stores will be giving away a FREE backpack filled with school supplies – limit one per child. Keep in mind that your child must be present to receive a backpack.  Be sure to call your local store ahead of time to verify participation in this program."
Not every Verizon store is giving away these supplies. For a list of stores participating in the school supply giveaway, check http://wirelesszone.com/backpack-giveaway/#mUAvJuax25Jpp298.97


Students:

I know its early, but I'm already planning.  We will be working right away, so please be sure to attend from the first day of school.

SUPPLIES:
If you're taking 7th Grade Science classes with me, please make sure you have the following supplies in class by the second day of class:
* At least one pen or pencil that works;
* A 3-ring binder (2 or 3 inches deep) that holds 8½ x 11 inch paper;
* Filler paper. If you can find it, get the wide-ruled 8½" x 11" reinforced filler paper. You can get college- ruled only if you tend to write small.  Staples has at least one brand which has cut the size of the paper to 8" x 10" or 8" x10½", and that's ok also. Mini notebooks won't work; please don't bring them.
* a set of tabbed dividers (minimum: 5);
* a folder;
* a permanent marker (Sharpie or other brand) to write on your notebook cover;
* a pencil pouch that will hold a few pens and pencils in your notebook; and
* a dispenser (roll) of transparent tape (a/k/a "Scotch" tape).


* In your locker: You should also have at least one box of pencils for your locker, together with a supply of low priced, dependable blue or black pens (ex: Bic or Paper Mate / Ink Joy).

Optional: a small hole-puncher and stapler at home that will work on 3-8 sheets at a time.
NOTE: Additional supplies likely: As I think of more about how we can run classes this year and, of course, the school will probably post or send out a supply list.

Any questions or comments, please send me a message through this blog and tell me who you are (full first name and initial of your last name is ok).  You can also email me using my email address on the school's web site (you might still find me listed as a 6th grade teacher) or you can send me a message on Twitter @MrGoldsmith208.

We have more than a month left in summer vacation.  Enjoy your summer!