December Book Orders

I sent home three book order forms today. Lots of good choices if you're looking for Christmas gifts! (For the kids, not me...although...just kidding!)

I've set it up for online ordering again. I sent home a letter with instructions this afternoon. Or you can use the "Scholastic Book Clubs" link in the "Links" box on the right side of the blog. (You might have to scroll down to find it).

If you want the books to be a surprise, let me know. You can order online and I'll get the books to you when they come in without letting your child know.

If you have any other questions, let me know. Money and orders are due Wednesday, December 9.

Camp Questions

I haven't had any questions regarding camp yet. Please remember the fundraiser and the cost ($130). Dates for the camp are February 8-10, 2010. We'll set up dates for money to be turned in after the Christmas break.

If you have any further questions, be sure to let me know.

News, Notes, and Reflections

To start, I just want to thank everyone once again for their hard work during Exhibitions. This includes students AND parents. These "little" presentations take a lot of time and preparation. Without the support of families, they wouldn't be possible. And I really believe I saw 16 of the best. Not just the best in the school, but as a group, these kids did the best of any class I've worked with since we opened. Well done, and keep it up!

I think the thing that impressed me most was the quality of the Interest Projects. I learned a lot from the presentations, and so did the audience. I always try to push kids to go beyond "puppies" or "dolphins" (not that I have anything against those animals) but seeing them learn and listening to them talk about Vincent Van Gogh or the origin of money how an earthquake occurs or chicken eggs or the Sony Corporation is much more satisfying.

This is a great group of kids and I am proud of all of them.

Just some other notes:

*No School Wednesday-Friday. Have a Happy Thanksgiving and I'll see you Monday, Nov. 30.

*Book-in-a-Bag and Slice of Life stories both resume this week. Both due Monday. POW will resume next week.

*I congratulated Ileana and Claire for their involvement in the Yearbook. I should have congratulated Ileana and TROI. Sorry, Troi. :)

Yearbooks For Sale!

For the first time ever, our school is creating a yearbook. A team of students, including our own Claire and Ileana, along with Mrs. Tiggs is working on this project. It will include photos of all students and teachers as well as candid shots from throughout the year.

Buy yours today for only $11. Money is due on the 16th of December. Don't miss out on this great way to remember the final year of elementary school!

Exhibition Update

We're not even halfway through Exhibition Week, but already I'm blown away by the students' presentations. I am not only immensely proud of those who've presented so far, but I'm also excited to see what the next 10 students will bring to the table.

And speaking of excited, I'm already looking forward to the second and third Exhibitions, which are sure to amaze. The next one, in March, will involve quite a bit more work, but work of the meaningful and in-depth kind.

Poetry will definitely be included, as will some more in-depth work with reading, focusing on non-fiction. And, of course, technology will play a prominent role.

I'll wait to share more until after this round of Exhibitions is over. I just wanted to offer up a teaser and thank everyone for their hard work (once again) this time around. Great job!

Remember Me?

Hello, I am your child's teacher. Sorry I haven't blogged in awhile. I am going to fix that starting...NOW. Things have been busy. I guess that's my excuse. In all honesty, though, we've been working hard to get ready for Exhibitions as well as get all the rest of our work done.

It's hard to believe it's almost Exhibition week. Stay tuned for more updates. I'll do a better job from now on!