Dear Parents,

Welcome to Track 3 Fifth Grade! This year marks a major milestone in your child’s academic career as he or she prepares to make a smooth transition to middle school. I am honored to have the opportunity to work with your child during his or her final year in elementary school!

While my name may be new to some of you, I am actually returning to West Lake Elementary after taking two years off to complete the majority of my coursework leading to a doctorate in Educational Psychology at NC State University. I have three courses remaining and the writing of my dissertation before I will be finished. Prior to returning to school full time, I taught for five years at West Lake. My last three years here were spent teaching fifth grade. While I was very grateful to have the opportunity to concentrate on completing most of my courses over the last couple of years, I have had an intense longing to return to teaching fifth grade. I missed everything about teaching! I am thrilled to be back home!

My husband and I are anxiously awaiting the arrival of our first child, who is expected to make his appearance some time around June 18. I will be taking a few weeks to stay home with him before returning to school. Mrs. Angie Stafford has graciously offered to begin the school year with the children. She is a veteran fifth grade teacher on Track Four. Mrs. Stafford and I have worked together to plan the first three weeks of school for the children, and we are certain that the year will begin productively. I will return to school immediately following our first track out (August 18).

Again, I extend the warmest welcome to you and your family! I am looking forward to a fabulous year with your fifth grader!

Sincerely,

Jessica D. Huff, M.Ed.