August 2007

Dear Meadows 5^th Grade Parents,

Welcome back to school! I wanted to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you all. Some of you may already know me, or heard my name last year in relation to STAR science, a program furnished by the PTA, where I had the pleasure of teaching hands-on science in a limited capacity here at Meadows. This year, I have been given the opportunity to be a part of this wonderful school full-time, teaching 5^th grade, while taking on the duties of science specialist.

My background is rooted in science. I was always a curious child, enamored with finding out how things work, how they’re put together, and most of all, why they work. My curiosity led me towards studying the sciences in school, spending a large portion of my undergraduate studies in various science labs at Santa Monica College and Cal State University Northridge, where I also earned my teaching credential. I am excited to be bringing this knowledge and experience to Meadows, along with my energy, enthusiasm and passion for learning.

This year at Meadows, our entire science program is receiving a facelift, as we are proud to be opening our new hands-on science lab. This will provide an arena for your children to get involved with science as they never have before, in a safe and creative manner. Having a hands-on science lab will make a big difference in helping your children understand various topics throughout the sciences in a memorable way, which will stay with them the rest of their lives.

All this is possible because of the hard work and contributions from the PTA, parents, and local community. I thank you, and look forward to working with you in the future, as education is a community effort, and hands-on science requires a lot of preparation – your help in the lab will be greatly appreciated!

The new science learning lab is designed with safety in mind. Please take a moment to read, sign, and return the lab safety contract with your child, in the science folder as soon as possible, as your child will not be able to participate in the lab until those have been returned.

I am excited about the new challenges in the year ahead, and look forward to an amazing future here at Meadows, helping teach and prepare your children for the 21^st century. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I look forward to meeting you.

Best Regards,


Chris Miko
5^th Grade Teacher