Oak Park High School

Grade 9 Study Skills 2018-2019

Mrs. Villalpando

Welcome to Ninth Grade Study Skills. Freshman year is the foundation to a successful high school career. Establishing good study habits and knowing yourself as a learner are essential to your success over the next four years. 

Feel free to contact me at any time. I will do my best to return your contact within 24 hours. My contact information is (818) 735-3322 or kvillalpando@opusd.org. 

 Goals

Study Skills is a class where students earn credit while focusing on 5 main goals:

1.     Improving student skills in the specific goal areas identified in the Individualized Education Program.

2.     Assisting students in understanding the concepts and assignments presented in the general education classes.

3.     Assisting students in developing and strengthening good study habits and learning strategies.

4.     Developing and enhancing organizational skills.

5.     Assisting the student in taking steps to discover and identify skills and interests that may lead to a future academic field of study and/or career of interest.

Classroom Rules and Procedures

 1.     Be on time to class. 

a.     There will always be an entry task to complete in a spiral notebook (POD book) posted on the Smart Board when students enter the classroom. 

b.     When the bell rings, students should seated and working in order to be marked present.

2.     Be organized.

a.     Students should bring your Time Tracker (homework assignment book) to every class. It should be filled out during general education classes. If students need to supplement or add to it, do so from the information posted on the white board BEFORE the bells rings. 

b.     Bring all materials to Study Skills that pertain to other classes especially if there is an upcoming test or quiz or there are questions about an assignment. 

3.     Be respectful.

a.     Respect all individuals and materials in the classroom. 

b.     Leave when dismissed not when the bell rings. 

4.     Be focused and conscientious.

a.     Focus on your own needs.

b.     Use the Study Skills time wisely.

5.     Use 7^th period daily. 

a.     Students’ teachers are available for extra help, questions, and clarifications. This is a great time to get a head start on homework especially if you have not been to Study Skills class that day.

b.     Students will sign up with the location of where they intend to spend 7^th period during Study Skills. 

c.     Students will also sign in with all teachers during 7^th period when you arrive at the classroom.

Grading for Study Skills

Each student has the opportunity to earn an “A” in Study Skills. By being organized, prepared, on time, focused and conscientious, you will earn an “A.” Students earn points each Study Skills period for the successful completion the behaviors listed below.

1.     Arrive on time.

2.     Bring all materials to class.

3.     Bring a completed Time Tracker.

4.     Work on IEP goals and study strategies to the best of their ability.

5.     Work habits and cooperation. 

Classroom Discipline

Study Skills class is a time to access support and assistance to ensure students are getting the best education. It is a privilege extended to all students on an IEP and needs to be treated as such. Please see the Student Handbook section in the front of the Time Tracker or on the OPHS website. I allow students to use the restroom and get drinks should they sign in and out and return in a timely manner. 

Home/School Communication

Connections between home and school can be significant during this time of transition. Please feel free to contact me at anytime, especially if there is a question or concern. Good news is also welcome! My email address is kvillalpando@opusd.org and my direct phone number is (818) 735-3322. I will do my best to return your communication within 24 hours. 
I am looking forward to a wonderful year together!

 Sincerely,

Kim Villalpando