Greetings Ascenders!

I am thrilled to join with you as we travel through your seventh grade year together here at Skyridge. Part of growing up is being able to make good choices, and this year you will have many opportunities to practice that skill.
As we explore history through learning about ancient civilizations and how they compare with modern society, you will follow areas of personal interest to research and present through multimedia projects. I am also excited to be able to work with you as you learn to fine-tune your writing skills in the expository and persuasive modes of essay writing. Reading comprehension skills will be sharpened through novel studies in different genres, focusing on literary elements.
My expectations of you are quite simple. First, respect your classmates and treat them as your friend, even if they are not someone you would typically choose as a friend. Secondly, be nice to yourself: eat well, enjoy life, laugh often, and get enough rest. Lastly, give 100 percent effort in life, so that you can truly be proud of your accomplishments at the end of the year. Gandhi said, “Satisfaction lies in the effort, not the attainment. Full effort is full victory.”
I look forward to working with you throughout the year as we all work together towards collective success. Please feel free to contact me whenever you have questions or concerns.

Go Ascenders!
Gayle Cooper