Mrs.

McCarthy's Class
Dartmouth Middle School
Room 307
408 264-1122 ex 15307
mccarthym@unionsd.org
Welcome to my class, first I would like to tell you a little about myself. I
was born and raised in Bakersfield, CA and went to public school from K-12 th
grade. I graduated with honors from California State University, Bakersfield
in 2003 and received my credential through San Jose Stated University.
This is my 8th year teaching special education. I also worked for two years
at Kern Regional Center in Bakersfield, helping people with special needs and
their families. I have also taken about 3 years off to take care of my two
lovely and energetic boys. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with
family doing outdoor activity such as hiking and beach days.
My Educational Philosophy:
I believe that every student is capable of learning to their highest potential
no matter their disability. Every student has a different way of learning.
When teaching the students I use teacher directed activities, semi-teacher
directed activities, group instruction, small group instruction, one to one
instruction, individual tasks and games and sensory/motor instruction. Most
of my instruction is hands on. I use visuals and manipulatives. I believe that
in order for the students to learn to their fullest potential their behaviors
need to be under control. During the first month or so of school I focus on
behaviors and learning school skills, such as following directions,
transitioning, attending to task, etc.
Classroom Management:
I encourage positive reinforcements. Not all students have the same
behavior management strategies and they will often change throughout the

year. Please let me know if there is anything new or changes going on at

home because this often affects behavior in class. Please let me know what
works to help minimize behaviors at home. I am also giving classroom money
to the students when they are behaving in a positive way and on Fridays they
can purchase items from the classroom store.
Routines:
I follow the daily schedule (see attached)

Group activities: The students work at their seats or at a table

during a teacher directed activity. Group can be whole class activity
and small group activities. Examples of group activities are: math
activities, English language arts activities, social studies, art, motor
skills, games, and cooking.

Morning Meeting: This is when the class goes over the daily schedule,
updates the calendar and verbally shares ideas to the class about a
topic.

Independent work: This is when students work at their desk

independently and teachers give individual help.

During P.E. the students dress out everyday in the locker room and
attend to the activities.

Computer Lab: Students work on educational computer systems such

as Read 180 and Envision Math.

Homework:
I work the students hard during the day, so I dont give very much
homework. I give a monthly Homework Calendar with activities to do at
home. Reading is a big part of Homework. I encourage that your read to
your child or have them read to you for at least 15 minutes each night.
There will also be additional work pages along with the Homework Calendar.
Meeting during School Hours:
I am unable to discuss your child progress or address concerns during class
hours. I like to use class time to work with the students. If you have

questions you may email me or call me. I get back to you in a timely manner.
I will write in the weekly communication long how your child's day has been.
Arriving and picking up your child from school:
Please arrive on time to school. Make sure your child is carrying their
backpacks and materials themselves. I want the children to be as
independent as possible. Once your child is in the classroom the staff will
help the student put their items away. If your child arrives late please make
sure your child checks in at the office before they come into class. We are
usually out at the drop off area at 2:43. We encourage you to arrive early
and beat the traffic. When picking up your child you will need to pull over
to the lane closest to the curve to prevent blocking of traffic and safety for
all children.
Lockers: All students have a locker and in the morning they put their
personal items in the locker.
If you would like to help the class come see me!
I have attached Reading Comprehension Strategies to use when you read to
your child at home. Touch Math have been effective with my students in the
past and I will be using it in the classroom. I have attached a touch math
number strip for you to use with your child at home. Count each point and
the point with the circle around it you can touch and count twice.
I look forward to a year filled with enrichment, knowledge and fun!