Overview

• My name is Matt Bjostad. I worked in St. Paul Public Schools for 17 years. Over that time, I have worked in many different schools and taught a variety of different grade levels. For the past 9 years, I have taught second grade. This will be my second year teaching second grade at St. Paul Music Academy. Second grade is the best because students take a big step in their learning.

  When I'm not at school, much of my free time is spent chauffeuring my son to his many sporting activities, including hockey, baseball, and golf. When not at one of Henry's sporting events, I like to play softball, go camping, and spend time with my family and friends.

  I am so excited about the school year and getting to know a new community of students and families!

• BONUS FACT: My wife is also a teacher at St. Paul Music Academy. She is one of the special education teachers.
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• Email:
• matthew.bjostad@spps.org
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• Degrees and Certifications:
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• University of Wisconsin - River Falls
• B.S. Accounting
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• Hamline University
• Elementary Education K-6
• Communication Arts/Literacy 5-8

Second Grade Parents,

   In second grade, I believe in having the students try something new and different. There is no evidence that homework improves students' performance in the early elementary grades. Therefore, I will not be assigning homework to your child this year.

   Instead, I want you to spend your evenings doing things that will have an impact on your child's success. Things like eating dinner together and discussing the school day. Ask your child what they worked on in math, what book they read during reading class or what story they wrote. Read with your child or have them read to you. Have your child play outside and make sure they get a good night's rest.

   If you do want your child to practice their skills at home, have them read for 30 minutes. They can read a book you have at home, a book from the library, or use one of the reading apps on their iPad like Raz Kids.

Thank you, Mr. Matt Bjostad