Hawthorne School Parent-Student Handbook 2016-2017
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Physical education is offered twice or three times in the A-F rotation. If the weather allows,
physical education is taught outdoors. During inclement weather, it is taught inside the gym.
All children must wear sneakers and appropriate, comfortable clothing on physical education
days. ―Heelys‖ and ―shoes that roll‖ are not permitted in school, even with the wheels
removed. Also, flip flops and non-strap/slip-on sandals are not permitted.
MUSIC
Children have a music class once or twice in the A-F rotation. In music class, students will
learn songs and dances from many cultures. Children perform these songs at shows for their
families several times a year.
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
Fourth grade students, with permission from their parents/guardians, are invited to try out
musical instruments and choose their favorites. Over the summer, a letter is sent home
announcing instruments your fourth grader may study and how to arrange for rental.
Instruction is once a week.
ART
Children experiment with clay, markers, paints, and other media, creating art work that reflects
many cultures.Art classes are offered once or twice in the A-F rotation.
WORLD LANGUAGE
Instruction in Spanish is provided by the classroom teacher once or twice in the A-F rotation.
Students are introduced by their classroom teacher to some basic vocabulary and simple
conversation in the Spanish language. Students also learn about the culture, music, and dance
of Spanish-speaking nations.
LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER
Children may borrow books from the school library. Books must be returned or renewed every
week. The library is available to children for research projects. It also keeps a variety of
videotapes and professional materials for teachers and parents.
TECHNOLOGY
A rich variety of state-of-the-art software programs are available for teachers to support
education in the classroom. Each classroom has at least one computer. There is also a computer
laboratory that contains 24 computers and 3 laptop carts for classroom use.
27