January 31, 2024
Dear Parents,
We are excited to begin implementing mandatory binders for 6th - 12th grade students. We will provide each student with a binder, tabs, and pencil pouch. This is part of our continuous effort to instill skills and habits that will lead to academic success. We hope the secondary school-wide use of these binders will help build the skills students will need throughout their lives by helping:
1. Learn the Importance of Organization:
Organization is a fundamental skill for success, both in academics and in life beyond school. By implementing mandatory binders, we aim to instill a sense of order and responsibility in our students. An organized learning environment contributes to a focused mindset, enhances time management skills, and allows students to track their progress effectively.
2. Develop Responsibility and Accountability:
Mandatory binders serve as a valuable tool for fostering responsibility and accountability among students. By requiring students to maintain their academic materials in a systematic manner, we encourage them to take ownership of their learning. This practice also teaches them the importance of respecting their own work and that of others, promoting a culture of diligence and professionalism.
3. Discover Effective Study Habits:
A well-maintained binder can significantly contribute to students' ability to engage in effective study habits. By consistently organizing class notes, assignments, handouts, and reference materials, students can access the resources they need with ease. This accessibility facilitates better comprehension, the ability to review concepts efficiently, and the development of study strategies that align with their individual learning styles.
4. Enhance their Time Management:
Time management is a crucial skill for success in academia and beyond. The implementation of mandatory binders helps students allocate their time and prioritize tasks effectively. With organized materials readily available, students can focus on their assignments and projects, optimizing their productivity without the distraction and stress caused by searching for misplaced materials.
5. Facilitate Student-Teacher Communication:
Mandatory binders provide a consistent platform for efficient communication between teachers and students. By utilizing the binder system, teachers can easily provide feedback, track progress, and offer guidance. Furthermore, the organizing process allows students to reflect on their work and notice patterns or areas where they may need additional support.
As we implement mandatory binders in secondary high school, we believe that this initiative will significantly benefit your children and contribute to their overall academic success. By promoting organization, responsibility, effective study habits, and time management, we aim to empower them to become independent, self-motivated learners. Your support and encouragement at home will greatly assist in reinforcing these skills. Together, we can give students the tools they need to thrive academically and prepare for their future endeavors.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Sincerely,
Andrew M. Perkins
Thorp School Superintendent/Principal
Lean in - Be responsible - Open Doors
Member of the Sinixt Confederacy (Lem Lemx)
Home of the traditional territory of the Kittitas Band