ABOUT THE TEACHER

My name is Sydnee Cruz, and I teach sixth grade English Language Arts (ELA) at Gulfport Central Middle School (GCMS). I am currently in my seventh year of teaching and my fourth year at GCMS. I taught fifth grade for three years; sixth grade for three years; English as a Second Language (ESL) for one year, given I am fluent in Spanish; and all other subject areas at the fifth-grade level. I am a New and Novice Teacher mentor, co-sponsor of the GCMS Student Council, and Team Lead for all sixth-grade teachers.

ABOUT THE CLASS

I believe ELA is best taught through literary experiences, so I provide multiple opportunities for my students to practice the skills we have learned in class throughout the year using novels, stories, videos, and films. Each quarter’s assigned reading has a theme to guide the ELA experience: 

• QUARTER #1 - UNUSUAL CHARACTERS
• QUARTER #2 - SUSPENSE AND HORROR
• QUARTER #3 - AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY
• QUARTER #4 - WORLD WAR II

SUPPLIES

All students will be required to have a 2-inch binder USED ONLY FOR ELA, a pack of loose-leaf paper, and pencils. Highlighters and wired headphones are needed but will be provided to your student from a shared classroom set if they do not have their own.

EXPECTATIONS

My students will read many novels/stories and write multiple essays each quarter, so it is important that your child is at school every day and on time to prevent them from falling behind. Homework will be given 1-2 times a week, but my students will be expected to study their notes every night. Given ELA is a state-tested area, any negative behaviors that disrupt student learning or teacher instruction will not be tolerated. My students should be prepared to work hard, think critically, and participate in classroom discussions; I expect my students to work to the best of their ability every day. Please send me your e-mail address if you would like to be added to your child’s Google Classroom. Do not hesitate to reach out to via e-mail sydnee.cruz@gulfportschools.org, phone 228-870-1035, or note if you have any questions. It’s going to be a great school year!