I am looking forward to working with you and your child this year. I can’t wait to learn more about your child and their favorite activities. I had a great vacation. I visited friends and family in Arizona this summer. I also added a new member to my family, a Great Pyrenees puppy named Lucy. Along with my summer activities, I enjoy running, swimming, horseback riding, and reading. I hope that you love to read too!
This is my eighth year teaching kindergarten and my third year here at Whitestone. My daughter, Kalee, will be a junior at Leander High School this year. I graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor's degree in Spanish. In December 2005, I completed my Master's in Elementary Education with a focus on Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment.
I will keep you informed about the class activities through a weekly newsletter. During the first few weeks of school, students will be spending considerable time learning about classroom routines and procedures as well as learning about working together. Some children adapt to school quickly and happily, while others may be a little hesitant. In any case, it can be beneficial to encourage your child to talk about school. Should your child seem to be having an especially difficult time in adjusting, please let me know. I need to be available to the children during arrival and dismissal; therefore, I will not be able to discuss specific concerns during this time. However, if you ever have questions, I can set up another time to talk. You may call 434-5300, send a note, or email me at Kathy.Espitia@leanderisd.org.
To ensure a smooth transition into Kindergarten, I would like to offer a few suggestions. Problems sometimes occur when students bring books, toys, or candy to school. Please help your child to understand that these items should be left at home except for special situations. Please be aware that party invitations are best distributed outside of school unless all members of the class are included.
If possible, providing your child with a backpack would be very helpful. Water bottles are also highly recommended. Please make sure your child’s name is on both of these items. Please do not put your child’s name on other school supplies. All of the school supplies such as; glue, crayons, markers, Kleenex, etc., will be put in a “community” container. This will help teach the children to share and develop social skills.
I am very excited to begin this new school year with your child. My mission is to start the students on a journey of success academically, socially and emotionally. I want your child to leave my class believing that they can accomplish anything through education, effort, perseverance, and positive beliefs. I know that by working together we can achieve this mission! I am looking forward to a wonderful school year!

Thank you for your support,


Kathy Espitia