August 14, 2023
Welcome to Mr. Pealer's Class!
Dear Family members,
I am excited to begin the 2023-24 school year and pleased to have your son or daughter in my class. I welcome you to be a part of the class, as well, and would like to provide a little information about my expectations and plans.
Class Supplies
Aside from the usual supplies (pens/pencils, paper, etc.), students will not need much specifically for my class. We will be using student laptops nearly every day, so please help your student remember to charge his or her laptop every evening.
Behavior Expectations
Learning can only take place in a safe, structured atmosphere. Therefore, we will spend time in class this week establishing and reviewing a set of rules and procedures for my classroom. While I won't list them all here, our classroom rules are based on respect and hard work. I expect my students to speak and listen respectfully (to me and to their classmates), and to work to the best of their abilities. In return, students can expect me to treat them with patience, caring and respect.
Phones: Please understand that students are not allowed to use cell phones during class, and must keep them in a special pouch. If a student has her phone out, answers a text, or talks on her phone, I will take the phone. At first, the student will get it back at the end of class. If distractions with the phone continue, however, I will turn it in to the office.
Academic Requirements
In Carpentry 1 we will be learning about safety, hand tools, power tools, and building materials. In the second semester, we will also be building several woodworking projects students can take home. Completion of assignments and participation in hands-on activities are required to pass the class. Missed work can be made up, but it must be done in a timely manner. See the attached syllabus for more information.
My Vision for the Year
I will provide your student everything needed to be successful in this class; but he or she must use the tools and the time that are available. Together we will create an engaging, supportive classroom. I will rely on you to support this effort by keeping up with grades, making sure your son or daughter makes it to school, and talking with him or her about school. And of course, please communicate with me whenever you have a question or concern.
Who Am I?
While this is my second year at Neville High School, I have fourteen years of teaching under my belt: four in Dallas and ten in Monroe City Schools. I have a Bachelor's Degree in English from Ohio University, a Master's Degree in American Indian Studies from the University of Arizona, and a Master's Degree in Education from the University of Louisiana Monroe. My family and I have lived in Monroe for nearly 20 years. During most of that time I worked in the business and nonprofit fields, which gives me a real-world perspective on the skills our children need to survive after high school.
My contact information is listed below. You may email me with any questions, or call me if the matter is urgent. Likewise, there is space on the attached sheet for you to give me your name, email and phone number. Please give me your contact information, so I can talk to you about your child.
I am looking forward to getting to know you and your kids!
Sincerely,
Chris Pealer
Neville High School
(318) 323-2237 x 1241