8/27/25

 

Dear 5th Grader:

 

Welcome to 5th Grade at Hillside Intermediate! You are now a “Hawk” (our mascot). If you are receiving this letter, you are either in my homeroom or Language Arts class (or maybe both). I look forward to a very exciting and productive school year. 5th Grade is a wonderful time in your life. You will experience an incredible amount of growth and have many opportunities for great accomplishments and success throughout the year.

 

We are going to read some great books this year. You will have the opportunity to select most of your reading books yourself. Other highlights of Language Arts would be our grammar olympics and opportunities to enter writing contests. You can take this class as far as you would like…

 

If you are riding the bus to school, my classroom will be very easy to find. When you get off the bus, teachers outside will direct you to enter through the side of the building. Our classroom is the first one on the right. I will be there to greet you.

 

Like all teachers, I have behavior expectations. We will talk about those more when school starts. But until then, I would like you to think about three words: attitude, respect, and responsibility. What do those words mean? I don’t need you to look them up, just think about what they mean to you. Can you think of good examples of each? Maybe some bad examples? Think about it before we meet on the first day of school. You don’t have to write anything down if you don’t want - just think about it. Maybe ask your parents what those words mean to them.

 

The best way to reach me when we are not in school is through my email address [email protected]. Visit my web page for further information and homework updates. Enter hi.brrsd.org to go to the Hillside Intermediate School website, click on Menu at the top. Go to Student resources, then click Teacher Websites. Teacher web pages are listed alphabetically.

 

The lockers at school are very narrow. Rolling backpacks do not fit in the lockers and are not recommended. Below is a list of supplies needed for 5th grade:

 

   - pencils and pencil case

   - post it notes (that fit in your pencil case)

   - ear buds (not wireless, that fit in your pencil case) 

   - a labeled, reusable water bottle

 

Please get these supplies before school starts. Coming prepared will help you be successful.

 

We do not have snack time, so make sure you eat a healthy breakfast. I strongly encourage you to bring a water bottle to class. I prefer this to you leaving to go to the water fountain.

 

Please contact me if you have any questions. I am looking forward to a great school year!

 

Sincerely,

 

Mr. Gum