May 9, 2013

So many big things coming up at the end of the year!  There will be lots of information in this post.  I will try to be as concise and clear as possible.

Today we enjoyed our "Taste of the Rainforest."  Thank you to all of the families that sent in treats for us to try!  We enjoyed pineapple, mango, kiwi, coconut, and avocado.  As our chocolate treat, we were supposed to have fudgesicles, but they didn't quite make it to the end of the day - that was my fault.  I promised the children I will bring more in tomorrow :)  We are learning much about the rainforest and getting ready to research and write about a favorite animal.

Tomorrow is the Mother's Day Tea.  The children can either come to school dressed in special clothing, or they can come in their uniform and change into something a bit more special after lunch recess.  It's up to you - the program is very sweet and you will want to bring your camera or video camera for some special pictures.  Each family has been asked to bring in one dozen of some kind of treat, and there will be people here in the morning to help you deliver it to the right place.  Our program will begin at 2:15 in the Lower School/Middle School dining room.  I can't wait to see everyone tomorrow!  The children have been working hard to put together an adorable presentation and some great surprises.

Tomorrow is the last day to bring in food for the food drive.  It looks as though our donations are down this year compared to years past.  If you can send anything in, that would be great.

Next week Tuesday is our Jump Rope for Heart event.  Mrs. Keiley and Mr. Landgraf are looking for volunteers to help with the event - if you can give an hour or two of your time next week Tuesday afternoon - they would love to hear from you.

The first and second grade music concert is next week Wednesday at 6:30.  There is information in the Lower School Friday folder on the portal.  Ms. Mallon gave details about where to meet, what time to be there, and what to wear.  There is a button right above this entry on my blog that can take you right to the portal - you just need to sign in to be able to read the Lower School Friday folder notes.

We have other fun things coming up!  Next week Wednesday, May 15, we will be enjoying the great raffle prize that Carly won for the class!  The children will be able to dress out of uniform, they will eat a special pizza lunch, and get an extra recess outside.  This was offered to each grade level by Carolyn Lengh and Kathy Choren - we are cashing in on Carly's good luck next week Wednesday!!  Yahoo!  Also on that date, the children can again bring a special stuffed animal friend for the day.  It must be able to fit into his/her school bag please.

I think that's all I have for now.  We will be taking the Unit 9 math test soon, and we have one more round of math game bags to make it home.  We continue to work on our reading strategies each day, and you should know, it's just amazing to sit and listen to the children read.  I can clearly remember reading with them at the beginning of the year also!  So much growth has taken place.  That is one of the reasons why I love teaching first grade.  The growth and development is so clear and apparent - it's wonderful to see them flourish in such a great environment.

Okay - now I'm done.  Hopefully everyone is well and has been able to enjoy a bit of the warm-up we've experienced.  It looks like 50s again tomorrow, so please make sure your child brings a fleece or jacket - it's chilly outside for a half-hour during recess.  See the moms tomorrow and enjoy your upcoming weekend!!

Patti