5th Grade

Teacher: Vanessa Tello

Paraeducator: Amy Bednarczyk

During the year, 5th grade students will focus on the following:

Religion - Using the Christ Our Life textbook, students grow in faith and understanding through:

• Study of the sacraments

• Learning how to live as disciples of Christ in daily life

• Exploring scripture and developing familiarity with the Bible

• Building a strong foundation in Catholic teachings, prayer, and service

Math - Students will deepen their understanding of multi-step problem solving and number operations through:

• 4-digit by 3-digit multiplication

• Long division

• Adding, subtracting, and multiplying fractions

• Understanding and working with decimals

English Language Arts - Using the Wit and Wisdom curriculum, students will develop strong reading, writing, and language skills through:

• Reading a variety of literature and informational texts

• Applying comprehension strategies (cause/effect, use of graphic organizers, summarizing, etc.)

• Expanding vocabulary and academic language

• Strengthening writing skills, including structure, organization, and mechanics

• Understanding parts of speech and conventions of English grammar

Science - Using the Smithsonian Science Kit program, students will engage in hands-on investigations in:

• Ecosystems

• Life science

• Earth science

• Physical science

Social Studies - Using the Social Studies Alive! curriculum, students engage with American history, civics, and geography through interactive learning experiences. Units of study include:

• Indigenous cultures of North America, with an emphasis on cultural diversity and regional adaptations

• Colonial America and the development of the Thirteen Colonies

• The American Revolution and the fight for independence

• Early U.S. history, with connections to civics, government, and economics

About Mrs. Tello

I have been teaching in the elementary school setting for six years, working with kindergarten, first grade, and now fifth grade students. I truly enjoy watching students grow academically, strengthen their character, and see their confidence develop as they learn new things and take on new challenges. Helping students discover their God-given gifts and build a love of learning is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching. When I am not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family.

Daily Raising of the Flag

Every morning, our 5th graders proudly raise the American flag—a tradition that reflects leadership, responsibility, and school spirit. As part of their daily duties, these students set the tone for the day by honoring this important symbol. It’s just one of the many ways our 5th grade class leads by example at St. Joseph!

Annual Classroom Events

Flag raisers

Presentation of the Stations of the Cross

Día de los Muertos altar building

Las Posadas Christmas Celebration