After viewing the pictures and article of the fourth graders making pasta, some of the kindergarteners promptly informed me that they too knew how to cook!  In fact, right before our Thanksgiving break the kindergarteners culminated their unit on apples and Johnny Appleseed by baking individual apple pies.  The teachers waited until right before Thanksgiving so they could tie the event in with Thanksgiving and preparing for a feast.  Participation in this activity provided yet another opportunity for the two classrooms to work together and for many parents to get involved. The room vibrated with excitement as many children experienced for the first time a machine that simultaneously peeled, cored and sliced apples …… and then to see the peel in one, long, curly-cue after it was all done.  Little did the children suspect that they were practicing cooperation, following directions and mathematical measurement while enjoying themselves with friends.  It is amazing how integrated our curriculum is and how independent and responsible the children become because of the things they are able to experience.

At this time of year, our lives often get so hectic that we forget to relax and enjoy simply being together.  Children sometimes feel this stress and act “out of sorts.”  This, coupled with an occasional late night or the anticipation of the holidays, can make you wonder, “Just whose child is this?”  Try to keep your schedules the same and make sure to schedule down time for the entire family.  It will help the stress dissolve and the memories happy.

Future Dates:

Friday, December 7th our second graders will be performing The Terrible Things at 10:30 a.m. in the Black Box.

Friday, December 14th you can start your day with a pancake breakfast hosted by the Development Office.  We have reason to celebrate as our capital campaign reached $13,000,000 just last week.  This is the biggest campaign the school has ever attempted and we are nearing completion.  Now that is worth an early morning pancake.

This same day is the Basketball Spirit Night with the JV game beginning at 4:15 p.m., the Girls’ varsity at 6:00 p.m. and the Boys’ at 7:30 p.m.

December 18th is our next Lower School duty-free lunch.  Join us for some winter fun.