1st Grade DLI Welcome
August 1, 2025
Dear Parents,
Welcome to the Portuguese Dual Language Immersion program! We are thrilled to have you and your first graders join us on this exciting educational journey. Learning a new language opens doors to endless opportunities, and we are excited to embark on this journey together. We understand that starting a new program can be both exciting and overwhelming, but rest assured that we are here to support you every step of the way. Whether you have questions about the curriculum, need assistance with homework, or simply want to check in on your child's progress, we are always here to help.
Getting to know Ms. Jones Hello 1st grade families!
I hope this letter finds you well and filled with anticipation for the upcoming school year. My name is Angie Jones, and I am happy to introduce myself as one of your child's first-grade teachers. I am eager to embark on this journey of learning and growth alongside your child.
This will be my second year as a dedicated first-grade teacher, but my journey in education has been a diverse and enriching one. Prior to joining the first-grade team, I had the privilege of substitute teaching at our school for several years. These experiences have given me valuable insights into the unique dynamics of our school environment and have instilled in me a deep appreciation for the vibrant community we have here.
Before my time in the elementary school classroom, I pursued my passion for education in a different setting—I taught science and biology courses at a large university in California. This background has equipped me with a solid foundation in curriculum development, instructional strategies, and fostering a love for learning in students of all ages. I am excited to bring this expertise to our first-grade classroom.
As we embark on this journey together, I want to assure you that creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment for your child is my top priority. I believe that open communication between home and school is essential for your child's academic success and overall well-being. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions, concerns, or insights you may have—Vanessa and I value your partnership in your child's education immensely.
I am looking forward to getting to know each and every one of your children and witnessing their growth and achievements throughout the year. Together, we will create memorable experiences, foster a love for learning, and lay the foundation for a bright future ahead.
Thank you for entrusting me with the privilege of being your child's first-grade teacher. Here's to a fantastic year filled with laughter, discovery, and endless possibilities!
Getting to know Professora Santos:
Hello dear parents,
My name is Vanessa dos Santos, and I am absolutely thrilled to continue as the 1st-grade teacher for the DLI program here at Sunrise! This will be my second year teaching first grade, and I’ve truly come to love this age group and everything that comes with guiding young learners through such a fun and important stage in their education.
Some of you already know me from previous years, and I’m excited to reconnect! For those of you I haven’t met yet, I’m originally from Maringá, a charming city in the southern region of Brazil. Life in Utah is quite different, but the stunning mountains here still take my breath away—even after all these years.
Teaching is a deep passion of mine, especially when it comes to working with children. While I don’t have kids of my own, every student I teach holds a special place in my heart. I even refer to them as “my kids”—which has definitely confused a few cashiers when I’m shopping for classroom supplies!
Before teaching 1st grade, I worked with 6th graders and loved watching them grow in their language skills. But now, having spent a year with first graders, I’m more excited than ever to begin this new school year. We'll dive into Portuguese, Math, Science, and Social Studies together, making learning fun and meaningful every step of the way.
I’m wholeheartedly looking forward to another amazing year with your children. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. I’m confident that this year will be filled with growth, laughter, and unforgettable moments for all of us!
Sincerely,
Professora Santos and Ms. Jones.
angie.jones@ccsdut.org
vanessa.dossantos@ccsdut.org
Sunrise Elementary phone # 435-563-3866
TEACHER PARENT COMMUNICATION
We use ClassDojo to communicate with all of you as a group. To get started, simply download the ClassDojo app from your app store and create an account. Once you've done that, you can join our class using this link: www.classdojo.com/ul/p/addKid?target=class&class=CA974QZ
You can also scan this QR Code on the printable version and be redirected to join our class.
Through the app, you’ll receive important updates, announcements, and reminders directly from Ms. Jones and Professora Santos.
Back to School Night is on August 18th, Monday. To ensure you don't miss a beat, here are the scheduled times for your convenience:
● 6:00 - 6:20
● 6:30 - 6:50
● 7:00 - 7:20
School begins on Wednesday, August 20th.