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Castle Pines

Elementary (K-5) Tech News

Welcome to Technology!

 

Hello! My name is Rajani Tammana (Ms.T), and I am your child’s K–5 Technology teacher for the 2025–2026 school year! I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and bring eight years of teaching experience from working in various schools. This will be my third year at American Academy, where I enjoy inspiring students to explore, create, and problem-solve through technology. I look forward to helping your child develop essential digital skills.

 

Course Overview

 

In each grade they will learn tech skills that build on what they learned from the previous year, so that when they leave me in 5th grade they will be very proficient in a myriad of technology skills.

 

Students will learn skills in

  • Typing
  • Google Workspace
  • Digital Citizenship
  • Cyber Safety
  • Presentation Software
  • Graphics
  • Coding
  • Web Navigation
  • File Management
  • Introduction to Artificial Intelligence(AI)
Technology Assignment Policy (3rd - 5th)
 
  • If a student is absent, they are welcome to make up their Technology assignments. Make-up work can be completed during WIN time in the Tech Lab or in the homeroom classroom with the teacher's permission.
  • Students who are present all week but do not complete their work will receive a grade based on what they have finished by the end of the week. Make-up opportunities will not be offered in these cases.
  • Additional time will be provided in the event of school closures due to snow days, emergencies, or unexpected schedule changes.

"10 Minutes a Day: How Typing Practice Can Make a Difference"

If possible, setting aside just 10 minutes a day for typing practice can significantly boost students' skills and productivity. This regular practice can improve typing speed and accuracy, making it easier for students to complete assignments, take notes, and communicate effectively in today’s digital world. It can also build muscle memory, reduce errors, and increase confidence when working on a keyboard. Over time, this simple habit can save valuable time and help students focus more on their ideas and learning, rather than on the mechanics of typing.

"Typing Goals For Each Grade Level"
 
2nd grade:  5 - 10 Words Per Minute(WPM) with 75% to 80% accuracy
 
3rd grade: 10 - 15 Words Per Minute(WPM) with 80% to 85% accuracy
 
4th grade: 15 - 20 Words Per Minute(WPM) with 85% to 90% accuracy
 
5th grade: 20 - 25 Words Per Minute(WPM) with 90% to 95% accuracy
Grading
50% - Engagement

In Specials classes, engagement and participation are an important part of the grade. This doesn’t just mean showing up - it means being present, trying your best, following directions, staying on task and contributing to activities.

We understand that every student brings different strengths and comfort levels, so participation is measured by effort, focus, and a willingness to grow, not just talent or performance.

Teachers look for things like:

  • Active involvement in class activities

  • Positive attitude and cooperation with peers

  • Trying new things and responding to feedback

  • Respecting materials, space, and expectations.

These behaviors help students get the most out of their learning experience and build the life skills that Specials are uniquely designed to support - like creativity, collaboration, discipline, and confidence.

50% - Projects, Skills and Assessments
In Technology class, students earn grades based on their skills, project work, and assessments. Skills are graded through typing, coding, and digital literacy practice, while projects reflect creativity, problem-solving, and effort. Assignments and assessments measure understanding and timely submission. Together, these areas give a clear picture of each student’s progress and achievement.
 
For 2nd - 5th grade
  • 99-100% (A+) 94-98% (A) 92-93%(A-)                                      
  • 90-91%(B+) 84-89% (B) 82-83% (B-)
  • 80-81% (C+) 74-79% (C) 72-73% (C-)
  • 70-71% (D+) 65-69% (D)
  • Below 65% (F)
For 1st & Kindergarten
  • ‘ +’ means 95% and above
  • ‘v’ means 80% to 95%
  • ‘-’ means 80% and below
 
 
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to me at [email protected].
Trimester 3
        Class Schedule
4th Grade: 8:38 - 9:23
2nd Grade:  9:51 - 10:36
5th Grade: 11:32 - 12:17
3rd Grade: 12:20- 1:05
1st Grade:  1:12 - 1:57
Kindergarten:2:00 - 2:45