makayla.taylor@hillsdaleprep.org

My name is Miss Taylor and I love teaching at Hillsdale Preparatory School! This will be my 5th year at HPS.   I have lived in Hillsdale, Michigan my whole life. I attended college through Hobe Sound Bible College and earned my Bachelors in Elementary Education. My favorite part of teaching is seeing students have an “AHA!!” moment after working so hard to master a skill! When I’m not teaching, I spend a lot of time outside with my family. We like having bonfires, going for walks, and playing with my two dogs.

Curriculum

English/Language Arts

• Reading- We will use a literature-based curriculum that will focus on close reading strategies to increase comprehension. 

• Writing- We will be using the Empowering Writers Curriculum

• Phonics- We will continue with Unlocking the Reading Code. This year we are adding in grammar

Math

• We will use the Saxon Math Curriculum

Science/Social Studies/Health

• Science- We will be using Inspire Science Curriculum

• Social Studies- We will be using Social Studies Weekly

• Health- We will be using the Michigan Model for Health Curriculum

  
  Computer Programs

• Google Classroom- This is our learning platform

• IXL- Online reading and math practice

Homework

In your child’s homework folder will be a monthly calendar with homework choices to complete for that month. If you complete the homework for that day, sign that day and if applicable, return  completed work to school the following school day. Then your child will earn one Class Dojo point. 

Standardized Testing

We will take various standardized tests throughout the year.

• NWEA- The test is designed to show students growth in math and reading through the year. Students will take this 3 times.

• MAP Reading Fluency- This test shows students reading ability. They will take this with the NWEA.

• Fast Bridge- This is a secondary screener designed to identify learning deficiencies.  

Report Cards and Grades

I will be using a standards-based report card and a scale of 1-4. Students will be assessed based on the standards that are taught that quarter. This will give you a clearer picture of how your student is progress in each skill. The scoring breakdown is as follows: 

1- Emerging – Skill is significantly below grade level

2- Developing- Skill is slightly below grade level

3- Proficient- Skill is at grade level

4- Exemplary- Skill is above grade level

Behavior Expectations

Students are expected to follow all school rules, but in our classroom we will really focus on being kind and treating others how we would want to be treated. We will be using Class Dojo to track behaviors. Students can earn points for making good choices and lose points for poor choices. The last Friday of every month students will get to spend their Dojo Points in my prize store! If a behavior persists or disrupts the learning of their friends, parents will be contacted.

Communication

It is extremely important for us to be on the same page when it comes to your child and what they are doing in school I will be in contact with you using the following ways:

• Monthly Newsletter

• Bi-weekly emails/reports/phone calls (please let me know what you prefer on the student info sheet)

• Periodic updates sent through text message. If you do not receive text messages, please let me know.

• A great way for you to contact me with any questions or concerns  is through my school email. 

Curriculum Map: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ovT8vY9dF2USQczOVZyzELLTfQH-sl9fJMrip-83_vM/edit?usp=sharing