Grandparent and Special Friends Day was heartwarming. The children work so hard to prepare special events to share with these visitors, and it is wonderful to see the generations mix together. The grandparents and teachers are very sensitive to the children who don’t have a visitor, and so grandparents are seen working with two children--and lots of our staff act as special guests. Once again it is a true community event, and I am saddened by the children who are not able to be a part of it after they participated in the preparations. As parents you never have to be afraid that your child will be left out, as we will make sure that someone is there to admire their work. You would be amazed at the pride all the children exhibit as they share their work with others.

There are no district 622 buses on Monday, October 23, because district 622 does not have school that day. We do have school.

Tuesday is our next Lower School duty free lunch. The teachers love this time to eat together without children, and I truly appreciate the help from the parents. Let’s hope we have good weather this time!

Thursday, October 26^th, at 6:30 p.m. is the kick-off meeting for parents of girls who would like to join the first grade Brownie troop. If you are interested, you need to complete the registration form that was sent home, along with the two checks mentioned in the flier. These must be returned by October 23^rd in a sealed envelope with Karen Stang’s name on the front. If you have further questions please call Karen (651.779.8622) or Carol Hatcher (651.653.3233). In most grades who offer Brownies or Girl Scouts almost all of the girls join, and it is a great bonding experience for them. The first Brownie meeting is Thursday, November 3rd right after school.

On Monday, October 30^th, there is no school at MPA. Panther Club has an exciting Korean day planned led by our Korean intern, Ji Yung.

Tuesday, October 31^st is Halloween and our traditional Halloween Parade. Unless you hear differently from your child’s teacher, the children come to school in uniform and bring their costume. Each classroom celebrates Halloween in their own custom depending on their schedule. When we all gather for lunch the lunchroom is highly decorated, and we often sing Halloween songs. At 2:25 the Lower School parade of costumes begins. I lead the parade and pick up the Pre-K first and then progress to the other classrooms, gathering children as I go. Then we will march all the way down the main hallway to the Upper School commons and back. Please join us to cheer on the children.

As explained in the Parent/Student handbook (available on line), weapons are not allowed as part of a costume, nor should costumes depicting violent characters be worn. These things only encourage violent behavior, and in the wake of what has happened at schools the last few years we certainly do not want to encourage violent behavior.

Children in Pre-K, K, 1 and 2 are not allowed to wear masks for the parade. The hallways are crowded, and it is often difficult for them to see and navigate with a mask. Third and fourth graders are allowed to wear masks if they meet the criteria mentioned above. We call this a third and fourth grade privilege if you need to explain the rationale to a younger sibling.

When Halloween is over, if you find your household has candy they would like to get rid of, you may bring it to the Lower School office. We will use the candy for the birthday boxes we make for children in shelters.

October is truly a busy month.

Nansee Greeley
Lower School Director