Welcome 7th and 8th graders!
Dear Students and Parents,
I would like to welcome all of my new students and parents to La Paloma Academy and welcome back my returning students and parents. For those who are new, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Ms. Duerr and I am the Junior High Science teacher. I have my Bachelor’s in Biology/Secondary Education and I am state certified and highly qualified in the areas of Biology and General Science (middle grades). I have three sons, two that attend La Paloma Academy and my oldest is beginning his junior year in high school. I love spending time with my family, including my animals. I have two dogs and a bird. This summer I was chosen to be a part of a program for Science teachers to work in a research lab at the University of Arizona. I was able to do both field and lab science, make connections with other educators, and gain valuable experience that I can use in the classroom. I am looking forward to sharing the exciting world of discovery and exploration of Science with each of you!


There are many questions new middle school students often have. Below I have answered some of the more common questions. Also, we will discuss them in further detail during the first few days.

What are Ms. Duerr’s Expectations?
1. Respect
2. Be Prepared and Stay on Task
3. Be Safe

What can I do to be successful?
* Understand and follow classroom rules and procedures
* Don't be afraid to ask questions!

What will we be doing in Class?
1. Bellwork: this is a task that is given to work on and complete in the first five minutes of class. It is part of your participation grade and a device to encourage good attendance and promptness therefore bellwork will NOT be able to be made up.

2. Homework/Class Assignments: This will be given periodically throughout the week. Homework will be due the following day unless otherwise specified. Assignments not turned in by their due date may either be reduced in points or not accepted.

3. Tests: Will be given periodically and can be a significant part of your grade so please take them seriously.

4. Labs: We will be doing many hands-on activities throughout the year. Lab investigations are very important for us to develop a strong understanding of the basic principles of science. As a student, you will be expected to actively participate and contribute to your lab group.

What do I do if I need help?

• I will be available most days before and after school
• Please let me know if you need to make special arrangements.

Communication is extremely important to me as both parent and teacher. Please feel free to contact me anytime if there are ever any questions or concerns!


First Homework Assignments (For the Parents/Guardians)
I thought it would only be fair if I asked the parents/guardians to do one small homework assignment since the students will be starting their own homework soon.
Parents and guardians know their children the best and it can be difficult to get to know each student within the first few days. So if you could share with me your knowledge of your child it would help me to understand each of them better and create an open and sharing classroom environment.
Assignment:
In a million words or less tell me about your child….
Don’t worry, there is no grade for this assignment and it can be as simple as a few words or a ten page essay if you like. This is just a chance for you to share with me anything you think would be informative, funny, or helpful.
*I know some of you may have done this assignment last year but children grow and change so much that you might be surprised how different your assignment is this year.


I hope you have all enjoyed your summer and are ready for an exciting new year!
Sincerely,

Ms. A. Duerr
Phone: 733-7373 Email: aduerr@lpatucson.org

The teacher who is indeed wise does not bid you to enter the house of his wisdom but rather leads you to the threshold of your mind. ~Kahlil Gibran