Dear Students and Families,
Welcome to the new school year at Jonesboro Middle School!
My name is Katuwapitiyage Fernando, and I am excited to introduce myself as your child’s
Grade 10 Business Education teacher. I am honored to partner with you this year as we guide
students through a journey of academic growth, real-world learning, and personal development.
Our classroom mission is to create a safe, respectful, and challenging environment where all
students feel empowered to achieve their full potential. I envision a classroom filled with
collaboration, critical thinking, and a commitment to success, where every student is encouraged
to take risks, learn from mistakes, and grow in confidence.
Classroom Mission Statement
In our classroom, we believe that learning is a shared journey. We will:
• Respect each other and ourselves.
• Take responsibility for our actions and learning.
• Show readiness to learn each day.
• Support one another in reaching our personal and academic goals.
Classroom Rules and Consequences
• Be respectful at all times.
• Be responsible for your work and behavior.
• Be ready to learn and actively participate.
Consequences for Not Following Rules:
• Verbal reminder and redirection.
• Private conference with the teacher.
• Parent/guardian contact.
• Referral to school administration if necessary.
These rules and consequences are age-appropriate and designed to help students develop
responsibility and maturity in a supportive environment.
Classroom Procedures (FERPA-Compliant)
• Submitting Homework and Classwork:
• All paper assignments will be submitted to a designated collection tray at the start of
class.
• Online assignments must be submitted through our secure school platform by the posted
deadline.
Administering Exams: Exams will be administered in a structured, distraction-free setting with
all personal devices stored away to maintain academic integrity.
Grading Guidelines:
• Homework: 15%
• Classwork: 20%
• Quizzes: 20%
• Tests/Projects: 35%
• Participation: 10%
Grades will be posted securely through our school’s online gradebook. Individual student grades
and feedback will only be shared with students and parents/guardians, maintaining full
compliance with FERPA regulations.
Returning Graded Work:
• Graded assignments will be returned directly to students in a confidential manner.
• Digital grades and comments will be updated regularly in the online system for private
viewing by families.
Late Work Policy:
• Students may submit late work within three days of the due date with a 10% penalty per
day late.
• After three days, students may earn up to 50% credit unless prior arrangements have been
made.
Absentee Policy:
• Students will have one additional day every day absent to complete missed assignments.
• Missed assessments must be scheduled and completed within one week of returning.
Family Communication:
Building a strong partnership with families is essential to student success. I encourage
open and positive communication and am available through multiple avenues. Regular updates
will also be sent to families regarding classroom events, assignments, and student progress. I
welcome and value your questions, concerns, and suggestions throughout the year.
I am truly excited about the year ahead. Together, we can create a supportive community
where every student thrives academically, socially, and personally. Thank you for entrusting me
with your child’s education — I look forward to a wonderful year of partnership and growth!
Regards,
Katuwapitiyage Fernando
Grade 10 Business Education Teacher
Jonesboro Middle School
