Dear Parents,
Welcome to the 2011-2012 school year. My name is Teresita Valdes. I am a veteran teacher of 15 years. I have taught first grade, second grade, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) fourth and fifth, and reading and writing labs in Miami Dade and Broward County Schools. As you, I too am a parent. I have two teenagers in college. And I can tell you, it does not get any easier! 
I look forward to working with your children in helping them get ready for a successful educational career. My goals as your child's third grade teacher are to instill a love of learning, promote curiosity, individuality and creativity.
The instructional design of the third grade curriculum is a recurring one. The same major strategies are taught across units and levels. The emphasis is on the students' personalizing strategies and transferring them to different contexts.
In order to reinforce what I am doing and make the students' day more meaningful, please set aside time each day to review your child's daily homework and be sure to check their backpacks/homework folders/journals for any pertinent information. If your child is absent please send a written note indicating the reason for the absence.
I ask for your support and commitment to make your child's third grade year a positive, successful, and memorable experience.
Sincerely,
Mrs. T. Valdes