Dear Parents/Guardian and Students:

I want to introduce myself to those of you who do not know me as the 7th & 8th grade English teacher. Most call me Mrs. J.  I have a diversified background having spent many years in the corporate environment, and my credentials include a Master's in Teaching, Master's in Writing, Bachelor's in Organizational Management, and an Associate's in Marketing.

I want to impress upon you that I feel that communication is an integral aspect of the educational process.  It is essential that we foster open communication with all parties including student, teacher, parent, and the administration.  Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions and concerns during the course of the year. 

English 7 & 8 will enable students' improvement in reading, writing, speaking, listening, critically thinking, and learning in large and small group settings, as well as independently.  Goals not only prepare students for high school, but for every day life, the "real world". Through teamwork, problem solving, and time management skills students will refine such skills, which are necessary for success with required writing and standards-based testing.

Please be aware that I hold high expectations for all students working to their best abilities, and I feel that it is vital to respect each other's feelings, differences, and thoughts.  Respect will be most important in our classroom; without it, learning will not take place. We are all unique, and each of us learns in many different ways. I firmly believe in setting students up for success, and there is no such thing as "failure".  Students please to your best to come to our classroom ready to learn and not disrupt the learning of others.

All students should come prepared with pen or pencil and a notebook.  Most student work will be kept in a classroom file or the PDC (Personal Development Collection) with the remainder sent home by the end of the school year.

I look forward to working together with you to achieve optimum success. Let's make this a wonderful year!

Sincerely yours,

 Mrs.

Catherine M. Oliverio

What is a Teacher?
by Barbara Cage

A teacher is someone
 who sees each child
as a unique person
and encourages individual
talents and strengths.

A teacher is someone
with a special touch
and a ready smile
who takes the time
to listen to both sides
and always tries to be fair.

A teacher has a caring heart
that respects and understands.

A teacher is someone
who can look past disruption
and rebellion,
and recognize hurt and pain.

A teacher teaches the entire child
and helps to build confidence
and raise self-esteem.

A teacher makes a difference
in a each child's life
and affects each family
and the future of us all.