Dear Kindergarten Families,

Welcome to the 2008-2009 school year at Cole Academy.  This is an exciting time for your child, although he/she may be a little nervous about starting school and this is also a time of emotions for parents as well such as excitement that your child is ready to start their school adventure, but also sadness because they are growing so fast. The first day of school will mark one of the most important steps in your child's life and I hope we can make it very comfortable.

Be assured that I will do my best to make this school year enjoyable and educational. Please do not think your child will be just "playing" all day! The skills we practice daily in kindergarten will be the foundation for years to come both in school and in life.

I would like to take this time to introduce myself. My name is Melinda Ayers. I am fairly new to the Cole Academy family however, I feel very welcomed and supported. I graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education along with an endorsement in Early Childhood Education. I grew up in the area with my parents and siblings. I enjoy the Lansing are and all the resources it has to offer.

I'm looking forward to meeting you and your child on September 2 at 8:00 a.m. which should be a great opportunity to drop off his/her supplies (which I have listed below) and become familiar with our school and classroom. He/She can find his/her desk and cubby. This should help relieve some of those "first day jitters".

Sincerely,
Melinda Ayers

Kindergarden Supplies List

*Backpack (large enough to fit clothing, lunch bag, projects)
*Box of crayons (no more than 24)
*Pencils (2 or 3 sharpened)
*Two large glue sticks
*Elmer’s white glue (large bottle)                 
*School box to hold these supplies
*Scissors with a round tip and metal cutting edge *Pocket folder                                     
*Art shirt (old shirt) 

If you have any questions or concerns, you may e-mail me at ayersm@coleacademy.org