Sterling Grade School uses the Saxon Phonics Program.  This is a very in-depth, rigorous phonics program that instructs the children to learn and apply phonetic rules.  Let me warn you, this probably will look very different than the phonics you encountered as a child.  There is homework Monday through Thursday that students are to complete and return to school each day.  The homework generally consists of a small reading and comprehension questions. Please take a moment to check over your child’s work and listen to him or her read the sight words.  The homework should take between 5-10 minutes to complete.  Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you feel like your child is having difficulty with this homework.  I am a firm believer in this program.  It can seem quite cumbersome at times, but in the long run I think you will find it produces very skilled readers and spellers.