Our website has been updated. Check out the latest additions. I hope you are having a wonderful break. Happy New Year to you and your family! I miss you all. See you on Thursday, January 3rd!
~ December/January Newsletter
This newsletter is full of new information. Take a look!
~ December Photo Album
Check out pictures from the month of December. While these photos highlight some of our day-to-day activities, you will find that the newly added Random Acts of Kindness photo album displays photos from our RAK preparations and adventures. Don't forget you can save these photos for your family's collection by dragging them to your desktop or right clicking and selecting "Save Image As…" or "Add Image to iPhoto Library" for Mac users.
~ Random Acts of Kindness Photo Album - (album titled RAK '12)
Take a look at all of our Random Acts of Kindness adventures. There are some videos, too, of your child reading and/or interacting with our new friends at Oaknoll Retirement Community. It has been a so rewarding watching your child embrace the importance of showing kindness to others. I am grateful for the wonderful experience and look forward to the continuation of kindness following Winter Break.
~ Welcome Page's Upcoming Events and Calendar Page
On the right hand side of the Welcome page, you will find an updated list of upcoming events (through Spring Break). The Calendar page has also been updated! Mark your calendars!
Monday, December 31, 2012
New Year Reminders
Happy New Year! I can't believe 2013 is here! Where does the time go?!? As we ring in a new year, help your child start 2013 off right by putting their best foot forward. Use this New Year as a way to re-evaluate the necessity in routines and structure. Here are a few friendly reminders for you as we prepare to return from a wonderful Winter Break! See you Thursday!
1) ICPL Books Due TOMORROW , Wednesday, January 2nd
Our December field trip's library books are due tomorrow, Wednesday, January 2nd. Please be sure to return your child's library books on time so they don't accrue fines. Many cards have accumulated some fines. Please be sure to check your child's library card fine status to ensure they can check out books on our next field trip to the library (January date to be determined.)
2) School begins at 8:15.
Remember, the school day begins promptly at 8:15. Learning begins the moment your child walks into the classroom. Their punctuality is an important part in establishing a concrete school day routine in Kindergarten and the school years to follow. Prompt arrival is an important trait to build in your child for success inside school, and out, for many years to come. For your morning convenience, the classroom opens up as early as 8:00 to help with drop-off routines and work schedules. If this helps your family with an early or on-time arrival please take advantage of this 15 minute window. BSP (Before School Program) is also available. BSP goes from 7:30 - 8:00 am. Please see Amber at the Front Desk for pricing information.
3) Outdoor winter clothing is needed.
The snow is here and we will continue to go outside as long as the air temperature remains above 0 degrees. Please be sure your child is prepared for outdoor play time when they return to school on Thursday, January 3rd. The following items are a MUST for outdoor play:
~ winter jacket
~ snow pants
~ boots
~ hats
~ gloves
Please be sure your child is able to safely and warmly play in Iowa's Winter elements. If your child does not have their boots or snow pants they will have to remain on the concrete sidewalk for the duration of recess. Boots are needed for outside and shoes (or slippers) are needed for inside. To protect Willowwind's 80+ year-old wood floors all boots must be removed when entering the building. Convenient boot cubbies (painted by 2010-2011 Willowwinders) are located by the North Recess Door for storage convenience.
4) Please help your child with all nightly homework.
Homework is expected to be completed each night. The homework your child receives is meant to help them review concepts learned at school while at home. This homework should be a review for your child rather than an impossible challenge. If your child is having difficulties with their homework please let me know. You should not have to teach your child the concepts at hand. Rather they should thrive on the ability to be your teacher.
The completion of nightly homework is also important in preparing your child for activities that we complete during the day. Cutting, and initialing, of spelling sorts should always be done at home. In doing so, this provides your child with the necessary supplies ready to complete school sort activities. If your child is having to cut sorts at school this task is taking away from the new activities they could be completing to strengthen their area of word study focus. Here you can find a link to our class's weekly, at-home Word Study Routine. You can also find this link on the right hand side of the website's Welcome page for quick and easy access.
At the return from Winter Break your child will receive their much anticipated Reading Tool Kit (see the Dec/Jan Newsletter and upcoming blog post for more information) will be handed out. Please be sure your child is using the tools within the kit during their nightly at-home reading time. Your child will also be taking home sight word flashcards and basic math fact flashcards to add to their homework routine (see the Dec/Jan Newsletter and upcoming blog post for more information). This is a great time to add this into their nightly routine as the students are showing eagerness in learning these concepts, and their current homework routine should all ready be consistently in place.
As a quick breakdown of timing your child should spend 10 minutes on nightly spelling and 10 minutes on math packet and math facts. Your family should also establish a nightly reading routine that includes practicing sight words (see more information to come), has your child reading to you, and you reading to your child. The amount of time your family focuses on reading is up to you; at least 10 minutes is ideal as your child has demonstrated the ability to build their reading stamina to 10+ minutes within the classroom.
As always, please don't hesitate to contact me if you have questions or concerns about your child's homework. I'd be happy to discuss. Thank you for your teamwork in building your child's academic success!
1) ICPL Books Due TOMORROW , Wednesday, January 2nd
Our December field trip's library books are due tomorrow, Wednesday, January 2nd. Please be sure to return your child's library books on time so they don't accrue fines. Many cards have accumulated some fines. Please be sure to check your child's library card fine status to ensure they can check out books on our next field trip to the library (January date to be determined.)
2) School begins at 8:15.
Remember, the school day begins promptly at 8:15. Learning begins the moment your child walks into the classroom. Their punctuality is an important part in establishing a concrete school day routine in Kindergarten and the school years to follow. Prompt arrival is an important trait to build in your child for success inside school, and out, for many years to come. For your morning convenience, the classroom opens up as early as 8:00 to help with drop-off routines and work schedules. If this helps your family with an early or on-time arrival please take advantage of this 15 minute window. BSP (Before School Program) is also available. BSP goes from 7:30 - 8:00 am. Please see Amber at the Front Desk for pricing information.
3) Outdoor winter clothing is needed.
The snow is here and we will continue to go outside as long as the air temperature remains above 0 degrees. Please be sure your child is prepared for outdoor play time when they return to school on Thursday, January 3rd. The following items are a MUST for outdoor play:
~ winter jacket
~ snow pants
~ boots
~ hats
~ gloves
Please be sure your child is able to safely and warmly play in Iowa's Winter elements. If your child does not have their boots or snow pants they will have to remain on the concrete sidewalk for the duration of recess. Boots are needed for outside and shoes (or slippers) are needed for inside. To protect Willowwind's 80+ year-old wood floors all boots must be removed when entering the building. Convenient boot cubbies (painted by 2010-2011 Willowwinders) are located by the North Recess Door for storage convenience.
4) Please help your child with all nightly homework.
Homework is expected to be completed each night. The homework your child receives is meant to help them review concepts learned at school while at home. This homework should be a review for your child rather than an impossible challenge. If your child is having difficulties with their homework please let me know. You should not have to teach your child the concepts at hand. Rather they should thrive on the ability to be your teacher.
The completion of nightly homework is also important in preparing your child for activities that we complete during the day. Cutting, and initialing, of spelling sorts should always be done at home. In doing so, this provides your child with the necessary supplies ready to complete school sort activities. If your child is having to cut sorts at school this task is taking away from the new activities they could be completing to strengthen their area of word study focus. Here you can find a link to our class's weekly, at-home Word Study Routine. You can also find this link on the right hand side of the website's Welcome page for quick and easy access.
At the return from Winter Break your child will receive their much anticipated Reading Tool Kit (see the Dec/Jan Newsletter and upcoming blog post for more information) will be handed out. Please be sure your child is using the tools within the kit during their nightly at-home reading time. Your child will also be taking home sight word flashcards and basic math fact flashcards to add to their homework routine (see the Dec/Jan Newsletter and upcoming blog post for more information). This is a great time to add this into their nightly routine as the students are showing eagerness in learning these concepts, and their current homework routine should all ready be consistently in place.
As a quick breakdown of timing your child should spend 10 minutes on nightly spelling and 10 minutes on math packet and math facts. Your family should also establish a nightly reading routine that includes practicing sight words (see more information to come), has your child reading to you, and you reading to your child. The amount of time your family focuses on reading is up to you; at least 10 minutes is ideal as your child has demonstrated the ability to build their reading stamina to 10+ minutes within the classroom.
As always, please don't hesitate to contact me if you have questions or concerns about your child's homework. I'd be happy to discuss. Thank you for your teamwork in building your child's academic success!
December's Random Acts of Kindness
December has been an amazing month in the Kindergarten classroom. I am blessed with your child's eagerness to spread love and kindness throughout our community. Our kindness interactions with friends, family, and community members has brought some of THE most rewarding experiences in my teaching career. Thank you for encouraging your child to embrace the importance of thinking about others and spreading the love. Please remember, that we hope to continue Random Acts of Kindness throughout our school, neighborhoods, and larger community throughout 2013. If your child and/ or your family complete a RAK, remember to document it with a photo (email me the photo), fill out a index card (found in front entryway near Conference Room door), and drop the index card in the white basket. We want to watch our school's RAK wall grow! Here are some highlights of our RAK adventures. Also take a look at the Random Acts of Kindness photo album (RAK '12) for many more photos and videos, too!
Our RAK Wall - Help us make it grow!
WW RAK - Holding doors open.
WW RAK - Delivering secret messages, puzzles, & coloring sheets to the other classes.
WW RAK - Delivering message & sweets to all WW families' mailboxes.
Preparing for RAK Day - Baking treats!
Preparing for RAK Day - Filling treat bags for UI college students.
RAK Day - A candy bar for our IC Transit - Towncrest bus driver.
RAK Day - Delivering treats to the ICFD.
RAK Day - Delivering treats to the ICPD.
RAK Day - Waving and giving a friendly hello to those we see.
Student Quote: "I love making people happy! Watch this (waves to gentleman). See! He just smiled!"
RAK Day - Delivering treats to our favorite ICPL children's librarians.
RAK Day - Handing out treats and "good luck" wishes to college students studying for finals.
Student Quote" Did you see their faces when I gave them a baggie? I think I made their day!"
RAK Day - Delivering treats to the UI Med School.
RAK Day - Delivering treats to the College of Public Health's IT Department
RAK Day - A group photo!
Oaknoll RAK Field Trip - Reading to our new friends!
Oaknoll Field Trip RAK - Reading to our new friends!
I must say that our Oaknoll field trip is one of the highlights of my career. It was the most amazing day, and I was so proud of our kiddos! The morning leading up to our field trip was full of pre-Winter Break eagerness, excitement, and sillies; however, the moment we arrived at Oaknoll the students showed the most beautiful level of respect and admiration for our elder friends. We all know that a new environment can make anyone nervous (especially a young five- or six-year old), but the WW Kindergarteners swallowed any nervousness or apprehension the may have had and were incredible guests. They read beautifully, interacted respectfully, were incredibly gracious with their words and actions, and a true bond was formed between young and old. I stood in the middle of the room and was moved to tears as I watched your child so beautifully interact with the elder residents. This, I must say, was the first time an educational interaction has brought me to such tears. Thank you for your wonderful child. This field trip was truly amazing. It was clear that we had made the day or month (maybe even the week or year!) of those elderly we visited. It was the most amazing experience and I am hopeful that we can make a return trip to Oaknoll in the coming months.
Our RAK Wall - Help us make it grow!
WW RAK - Holding doors open.
WW RAK - Delivering secret messages, puzzles, & coloring sheets to the other classes.
WW RAK - Delivering message & sweets to all WW families' mailboxes.
Preparing for RAK Day - Baking treats!
Preparing for RAK Day - Filling treat bags for UI college students.
RAK Day - A candy bar for our IC Transit - Towncrest bus driver.
RAK Day - Delivering treats to the ICFD.
RAK Day - Delivering treats to the ICPD.
RAK Day - Waving and giving a friendly hello to those we see.
Student Quote: "I love making people happy! Watch this (waves to gentleman). See! He just smiled!"
RAK Day - Delivering treats to our favorite ICPL children's librarians.
RAK Day - Handing out treats and "good luck" wishes to college students studying for finals.
Student Quote" Did you see their faces when I gave them a baggie? I think I made their day!"
RAK Day - Delivering treats to the UI Med School.
RAK Day - Delivering treats to the College of Public Health's IT Department
RAK Day - A group photo!
Oaknoll RAK Field Trip - Reading to our new friends!
Oaknoll Field Trip RAK - Reading to our new friends!
I must say that our Oaknoll field trip is one of the highlights of my career. It was the most amazing day, and I was so proud of our kiddos! The morning leading up to our field trip was full of pre-Winter Break eagerness, excitement, and sillies; however, the moment we arrived at Oaknoll the students showed the most beautiful level of respect and admiration for our elder friends. We all know that a new environment can make anyone nervous (especially a young five- or six-year old), but the WW Kindergarteners swallowed any nervousness or apprehension the may have had and were incredible guests. They read beautifully, interacted respectfully, were incredibly gracious with their words and actions, and a true bond was formed between young and old. I stood in the middle of the room and was moved to tears as I watched your child so beautifully interact with the elder residents. This, I must say, was the first time an educational interaction has brought me to such tears. Thank you for your wonderful child. This field trip was truly amazing. It was clear that we had made the day or month (maybe even the week or year!) of those elderly we visited. It was the most amazing experience and I am hopeful that we can make a return trip to Oaknoll in the coming months.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
RAK Donations Needed!
Random Acts of Kindness Donations Needed!
We will be traveling downtown on Wednesday, December 12th to perform many random acts of kindness. We are in need of supplies to help spread the kindness. If you can donate any of the following please click HERE and sign up. Please bring all donations by Monday, December 10th! Thank you so much for your help and support!
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Volunteer Opportunity: Drivers for Oaknoll Field Trip
The Kindergarteners are excited to spread our kindness! On Friday, December 14th, we will be traveling to Oaknoll Retirement Community to share treats and read with our eldest community members. We are in need of parent drivers. We will leave Willowwind at 10:00 and return to school around 11:30. Please let me know if you are available to drive and how many booster seats you can fit in your car.
All Kindergarteners will need to leave a booster seat to travel on this field trip.
Thank you so much! We are looking forward to a morning of kindness!
PS: Volunteers are still needed to help with partner book writing. Thank you!
All Kindergarteners will need to leave a booster seat to travel on this field trip.
Thank you so much! We are looking forward to a morning of kindness!
PS: Volunteers are still needed to help with partner book writing. Thank you!
A Message from the Burrowing Owls
We are having a paper drive for the food pantry at the River Community Church. Please bring paper products such as toilet paper, paper towels, Kleenex, and napkins. Bring your things from December 12th to December 17th. You can put your things in the boxes in the entryway at Willowwind School. The Burrowing Owl class will deliver the paper products on December 18th at 9:00 a.m. This is a random act of kindness organized by The Burrowing Owls Class.
Sincerely,
The Burrowing Owls Class
Sincerely,
The Burrowing Owls Class
A Message from Ms. Danielle
As part of our work with "frutas y verduras" (fruits and vegetables), Kindergarten students have been practicing the expressions "Me gusta" (I like) and "No me gusta" (I don't like). We have been watching this video on YouTube from a children's show in Peru similar to Sesame Street - Los Pimpollos.
Conejito and Cottontail students will share this song and tell us their favorite vegetables during GD on Tuesday, December 11. As the song is a little fast, we will only sing the chorus. I encourage you to view the video together and practice the lyrics with your Spanish student. And have fun with the CHA - CHA - CHAS!
~Danielle
PS: This link will be added to our new "Grooveshark-Music subpage". Enjoy!
Conejito and Cottontail students will share this song and tell us their favorite vegetables during GD on Tuesday, December 11. As the song is a little fast, we will only sing the chorus. I encourage you to view the video together and practice the lyrics with your Spanish student. And have fun with the CHA - CHA - CHAS!
~Danielle
PS: This link will be added to our new "Grooveshark-Music subpage". Enjoy!
2013 Spring Break Programs
Shakespeare for Kids: K-2nd grade
12:30 - 3:30, $150
8:30 AM - 11:30 AM: K-2nd Grade, $150
If students are enrolled in both morning and afternoon sessions, they will be supervised for free during lunch. Students must bring their own sack lunches. No before or after school care will be provided during Spring Break camps.
Any student cancellations after February 24 will not be refunded. If a class is cancelled, a full refund will be given.
Please direct registration forms and any questions to Hannah Rounds at hannahr@willowwind.org or by phone at 319-338-6061.
12:30 - 3:30, $150
Students will experience an introduction to the timeless stories of Shakespeare's works, his poetry, and the language of his plays. Engage in games that play with the vocabulary, rhyme, meter, and word music of Shakespearean verse to explore patterns, beats, and expression. We'll get to know famous characters from the plays, learn about their likes and dislikes, and work to understand what makes them act the way they do. Camp days will include theater games, fun acting exercises, and children's games from Elizabethan times, too.
Instructor: Brooke LeWarne earned her BA in Theatre Arts from the University of Iowa, with a focus on acting and arts management. She adores the work of Shakespeare and has studied his work for years, both at the UI and in New York. Brooke is currently an educator at Northwest Junior High and a House Manager for the University of Iowa's Theatre season.
Drum Beats
8:30 AM - 11:30 AM: K-2nd Grade, $150
Drums have an irresistible pull for learners of all ages - making music on a drum is fun and deeply satisfying! Group drumming not only introduces students to musical technique and self-expression, but nourishes them mind, body, and spirit. As children work with rhythms, they are accessing their minds, expressing their emotions without saying a word, creating a deep sense of self-awareness, and building a sense of connectedness with others. Drum circles promote cooperative work, team spirit, and individual contribution to the whole. With an emphasis on age-appropriate skills and music, learners at each level will experience an introduction to drumming techniques. Throughout the week, we'll explore drumming and rock-n-roll, hip-hop, pop, blues, swing, and jazz music. We'll finish our musical adventure with a performance for friends and family on the final day of camp.
Instructor: Abby Haywood holds an Iowa teaching license and a board certification in Music Therapy. She has six years of music teaching experience. Abby has conducted drum workshops and after school drum ensembles for elementary and high school students.
Registration:
Registration and payment (cash, check, or tuition withdrawal) are due at Willowwind by March 1, 2013. To enroll, please print off and complete this
registration form or pick up the form at Willowwind's Front Office.If students are enrolled in both morning and afternoon sessions, they will be supervised for free during lunch. Students must bring their own sack lunches. No before or after school care will be provided during Spring Break camps.
Any student cancellations after February 24 will not be refunded. If a class is cancelled, a full refund will be given.
Please direct registration forms and any questions to Hannah Rounds at hannahr@willowwind.org or by phone at 319-338-6061.
Looking for Spring Break staycation activities for your child?Willowwind is hosting a week of theatrical and musical adventures for PreK-6th grade. Grow your creativity with us! |
Winter / Spring 2013 After School Enrichment Programs
| We are excited to announce the list of spring after school enrichment programs for preschool through 6th grade students. Learners can participate in classes as diverse as yoga and Latin! |
This semester, classes are offered in two, six-week sessions. |
| Look to this |
Session 1's registration deadline is Friday, January 25, and Session 2's deadline is Friday, March 15.
Please direct registration forms and any questions to Hannah Rounds at hannahr@willowwind.org or by phone at 319-338-6061.
| Enrollment is open to all preschool through sixth grade students in the Iowa City community. Invite friends, family members, coworkers, neighbors. To enroll, print off and fill out this |
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Website Updated - Nov/Dec Newsletter & More
Our website has been updated. Check out the latest additions. Below you will also find a few reminders and upcoming events information.
~ November / December Newsletter
This newsletter is full of new information. Take a look! In the Literacy section you will find information on a volunteer opportunity to help with Partner Book writing. Let me know if you are interested in helping out.
~ November Photo Album
Check out pictures from our the month of November. More photos to come as I continue to upload photos from my Nikon. I recently cleaned out my phone's camera, so check out updates in the October Photo Album, too! Don't forget you can save these photos for your family's collection by dragging them to your desktop or right clicking and selecting "Save Image As…" or "Add Image to iPhoto Library" for Mac users.
~ Groove Shark Sub Page
Check out our favorite songs. We play these songs at Sing Along, in Morning Meeting, during Centers, while working, all the time! You can use the above link to find the tab or by visiting the Technology's SubPage under the Curriculum Tab. Here you will find two playlists - our Sing Along playlist and a playlist with some of our classroom favorites. Here, and on the subpage, I have also included a link to our magical clean up song! I encourage you to play this music at home. Your kiddo will love it! Enjoy!
Reminders:
1) Library Books Due December 19
Library books checked out on our recent field trip are due on Wednesday, December 19th. Also, a number of friends had overdue books and accruing fines. I thought I'd let you know in case your child's card is one of them. When fines reach $10 it prevents card users from checking out books. Double check to see if you have outstanding fines with the library.
2) WW's Inclement Weather Policy
Willowwind School follows Iowa City Community School District for school cancellations, early dismissal, or late states due to inclement weather (unless in cases of extreme heat). In the event of a late start or early dismissal due to inclement weather there will be no BASP. School cancellations are posted as soon as possible on KWWL and KCRG media. Go to their websites to sign up for text message alerts - the easiest way to receive cancellation notices.
Upcoming Events:
1) Kindergarten Transition Night - Thursday, December 6th - 6:30 pm
Do you have friends, family members, neighbors, coworkers with an upcoming age eligible Kindergartener for the 2013-2014 school year? Please invite them to our upcoming Kindergarten Transition Night THIS Thursday, December 6th at 6:30. Here they can learn more about Willowwind's kindergarten program and small classroom environment. Prospective parents will earn about the Kindergarten curriculum , Spanish instruction, and outdoor classroom initiatives. Child care is available for toilet-trained children. If you know of interested families, please have them RSVP for the event by December 5 to Amy Conyers at amyc@willowwind.org or by calling 319.338.6061. Thanks for spreading the word!
2) Holiday Friday Parent Coffee - Friday, December 7th - 8:15 am
Willowwind Friends and Families (WFF) invites each and every parent to their special Holiday Parent Coffee NEXT Friday, December 7th. In addition to coffee and holiday treats, Willowwind parent Rachel Weissman will speak. Rachel is a licensed acupuncturist who will be offering tips for decreasing stress during the holiday season. Plan to join WFF for coffee, conversation, and relaxation.
~ November / December Newsletter
This newsletter is full of new information. Take a look! In the Literacy section you will find information on a volunteer opportunity to help with Partner Book writing. Let me know if you are interested in helping out.
~ November Photo Album
Check out pictures from our the month of November. More photos to come as I continue to upload photos from my Nikon. I recently cleaned out my phone's camera, so check out updates in the October Photo Album, too! Don't forget you can save these photos for your family's collection by dragging them to your desktop or right clicking and selecting "Save Image As…" or "Add Image to iPhoto Library" for Mac users.
~ Groove Shark Sub Page
Check out our favorite songs. We play these songs at Sing Along, in Morning Meeting, during Centers, while working, all the time! You can use the above link to find the tab or by visiting the Technology's SubPage under the Curriculum Tab. Here you will find two playlists - our Sing Along playlist and a playlist with some of our classroom favorites. Here, and on the subpage, I have also included a link to our magical clean up song! I encourage you to play this music at home. Your kiddo will love it! Enjoy!
Reminders:
1) Library Books Due December 19
Library books checked out on our recent field trip are due on Wednesday, December 19th. Also, a number of friends had overdue books and accruing fines. I thought I'd let you know in case your child's card is one of them. When fines reach $10 it prevents card users from checking out books. Double check to see if you have outstanding fines with the library.
2) WW's Inclement Weather Policy
Willowwind School follows Iowa City Community School District for school cancellations, early dismissal, or late states due to inclement weather (unless in cases of extreme heat). In the event of a late start or early dismissal due to inclement weather there will be no BASP. School cancellations are posted as soon as possible on KWWL and KCRG media. Go to their websites to sign up for text message alerts - the easiest way to receive cancellation notices.
Upcoming Events:
1) Kindergarten Transition Night - Thursday, December 6th - 6:30 pm
Do you have friends, family members, neighbors, coworkers with an upcoming age eligible Kindergartener for the 2013-2014 school year? Please invite them to our upcoming Kindergarten Transition Night THIS Thursday, December 6th at 6:30. Here they can learn more about Willowwind's kindergarten program and small classroom environment. Prospective parents will earn about the Kindergarten curriculum , Spanish instruction, and outdoor classroom initiatives. Child care is available for toilet-trained children. If you know of interested families, please have them RSVP for the event by December 5 to Amy Conyers at amyc@willowwind.org or by calling 319.338.6061. Thanks for spreading the word!
2) Holiday Friday Parent Coffee - Friday, December 7th - 8:15 am
Willowwind Friends and Families (WFF) invites each and every parent to their special Holiday Parent Coffee NEXT Friday, December 7th. In addition to coffee and holiday treats, Willowwind parent Rachel Weissman will speak. Rachel is a licensed acupuncturist who will be offering tips for decreasing stress during the holiday season. Plan to join WFF for coffee, conversation, and relaxation.
Random Acts of Kindness
We are excited to begin a new unit with our Conejito friends! We hope our excitement for this new unit will spread to our older friends, too! This week, both Kindergarten classes met to discuss what giving and kindness mean.
Giving: (verb)
Merriam-Webster's Definition:
1. Freely transfer the possession of (something) to (someone); hand over to: "they gave her water".
2. Bestow (love, affection, or other emotional support): "his parents gave him encouragement"; "he was very giving and supportive".
Kindergarteners' Definition:
When you fill someones bucket! When you help someone in need. When you smile at someone.
Kindness: (noun)
Merriam-Webster's Definition:
1. The quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.
2. A kind act.
Kindergarteners' Definition:
Not thinking of yourself. Helping someone up. Doing things for others.
This holiday season we will be performing random acts of kindness both in our community and at Willowwind. How will we make this happen? Here are a few of our the ideas we generated at school:
• Leave nice notes on cars in parking lots to let others know we care.
• Smile at someone.
• Give a compliment.
• Buy a gift card and hand it to someone going into the store or restaurant. Make sure to say "Random act of kindness! Enjoy!"
• Tell your family you love them.
• Help load grocery's into an elder's car.
• Return a lone shopping cart.
• GIve away old clothes and toys to people in need.
• Hold a door for a stream of people.
• Share coins. Put quarters in parking meters, put coins in bell ringers' red cauldrons, pay for someone else's drink or food in a drive through lane, attach a baggie of coins to a vending machine.
FRIDAY'S HOMEWORK: On Friday, I sent home a note with an attached green notecard. Use this notecard to journal your child's first act of kindness completed over the weekend. Have them write down what your family did. If you can, attach a picture (or email me the picture) to go with the green notecard. Please return the green notecard by Monday, December 3rd. We will use these notecards to present our ideas to our older friends as we lead GD on Monday. We are eager to spread the kindness word. If you complete more than on act of kindness have your child journal the additional acts on other notecards. Don't forget to add (or email) a picture to go with each act of kindness. Continue to do this as your child competes a variety of acts of kindness throughout the month of December.
We will create a Random Act of Kindness bulletin board to display all of our notecards and photos. With our RAK's on display, we hope the urge to complete acts of kindness will spread across our Willowwind community and beyond. Throughout December, we will be completing acts of kindness at school as well. Look out for upcoming blog posts with more information. We hope to plan a field trip or two to spread our kindness with a variety of community of organizations.
Here you will find a few links of other families that have completed random acts of kindness in their community. Click the links to to find additional ideas. Really, the ideas are endless - there are a variety of free and inexpensive ideas at our fingertips!
Kindness Ideas: Click HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE.
Cottontail families have already emailed me with acts of kindness completed already! Thank you for your excitement. Your child will feed off our excitement. Please let me know if you have questions! Most importantly, have fun!
PS: The RAK movement is quickly spreading. Here is an article I found on the Today Show's website about acts of kindness on Staten Island!
Giving: (verb)
Merriam-Webster's Definition:
1. Freely transfer the possession of (something) to (someone); hand over to: "they gave her water".
2. Bestow (love, affection, or other emotional support): "his parents gave him encouragement"; "he was very giving and supportive".
Kindergarteners' Definition:
When you fill someones bucket! When you help someone in need. When you smile at someone.
Kindness: (noun)
Merriam-Webster's Definition:
1. The quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.
2. A kind act.
Kindergarteners' Definition:
Not thinking of yourself. Helping someone up. Doing things for others.
This holiday season we will be performing random acts of kindness both in our community and at Willowwind. How will we make this happen? Here are a few of our the ideas we generated at school:
• Leave nice notes on cars in parking lots to let others know we care.
• Smile at someone.
• Give a compliment.
• Buy a gift card and hand it to someone going into the store or restaurant. Make sure to say "Random act of kindness! Enjoy!"
• Tell your family you love them.
• Help load grocery's into an elder's car.
• Return a lone shopping cart.
• GIve away old clothes and toys to people in need.
• Hold a door for a stream of people.
• Share coins. Put quarters in parking meters, put coins in bell ringers' red cauldrons, pay for someone else's drink or food in a drive through lane, attach a baggie of coins to a vending machine.
FRIDAY'S HOMEWORK: On Friday, I sent home a note with an attached green notecard. Use this notecard to journal your child's first act of kindness completed over the weekend. Have them write down what your family did. If you can, attach a picture (or email me the picture) to go with the green notecard. Please return the green notecard by Monday, December 3rd. We will use these notecards to present our ideas to our older friends as we lead GD on Monday. We are eager to spread the kindness word. If you complete more than on act of kindness have your child journal the additional acts on other notecards. Don't forget to add (or email) a picture to go with each act of kindness. Continue to do this as your child competes a variety of acts of kindness throughout the month of December.
We will create a Random Act of Kindness bulletin board to display all of our notecards and photos. With our RAK's on display, we hope the urge to complete acts of kindness will spread across our Willowwind community and beyond. Throughout December, we will be completing acts of kindness at school as well. Look out for upcoming blog posts with more information. We hope to plan a field trip or two to spread our kindness with a variety of community of organizations.
Here you will find a few links of other families that have completed random acts of kindness in their community. Click the links to to find additional ideas. Really, the ideas are endless - there are a variety of free and inexpensive ideas at our fingertips!
Kindness Ideas: Click HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE.
Cottontail families have already emailed me with acts of kindness completed already! Thank you for your excitement. Your child will feed off our excitement. Please let me know if you have questions! Most importantly, have fun!
PS: The RAK movement is quickly spreading. Here is an article I found on the Today Show's website about acts of kindness on Staten Island!
Volunteer Opportunity: Partner Book Writing
The joy of our partner book tradition is beginning. Each year, Willowwind students are eager to create a special book for one of their partners. Students experience the writing and illustration from the beginning (interviewing partners and outline ideas) to end (binding books with their own cover design). Partner Books are an amazing part of the WIllowwind experience. Many Willowwind families find a special spot on their bookshelves to house the Partner Books their child receives each year.
I need your help…
Parent volunteers are needed to help with our partner book writing experience. Kindergarteners seem to benefit most when they can work on their writing individually with an adult. Please email me if you are available to help with Partner Book writing. Our schedule is flexible so please let me know the times that you could help out. I am looking for writing help during the school day and even after school during ASP.
I need your help…
Parent volunteers are needed to help with our partner book writing experience. Kindergarteners seem to benefit most when they can work on their writing individually with an adult. Please email me if you are available to help with Partner Book writing. Our schedule is flexible so please let me know the times that you could help out. I am looking for writing help during the school day and even after school during ASP.
Happy Thanksgiving
We had much to be thankful for. What a great way to begin our Thanksgiving celebrations. I hope your family enjoyed the time away. It is hard to believe that Thanksgiving Break has come and gone. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with my family, but I was so eager to see your child's smiling face on Monday. Here are some fun pictures from our Thanksgiving preparations.
Our Turkey Handprints
Our Turkey Centerpieces
Baking Our Pumpkin Seeds and Pumpkin Cookies
Our Thanksgiving Feast
More feast pictures to come.
Our Thankful Tree
Our Thanksgiving Black and White Book
Willowwind's Thanksgiving Tradition - "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" and "The Mayflower Voyagers (This is America, Charlie Brown)"
The best way to end an amazing day! I am so thankful!
Our Turkey Handprints
Our Turkey Centerpieces
Baking Our Pumpkin Seeds and Pumpkin Cookies
Our Thanksgiving Feast
More feast pictures to come.
Our Thankful Tree
Our Thanksgiving Black and White Book
Willowwind's Thanksgiving Tradition - "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" and "The Mayflower Voyagers (This is America, Charlie Brown)"
The best way to end an amazing day! I am so thankful!
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Winter is Coming - A Reminder
Burr! The Winter's cold is here to stay I'm afraid. As a reminder, please be sure your child's cubby is well stocked with all the necessary cold-weather gear. As long as the air temp is above 0 we will head outside for recesses. Movement class will also take place outside as long as possible. It is very important that your child comes to school each day with the following items…
~ warm winter coat
~ thick gloves
and
~ a hat.
Other helpful items include a scarf to block the wind from little faces and pants for those friends that like to wear dresses without tights.
When the first snow falls, snow pants and boots will be required to play in the snow. Please prepare ahead of time to bring these snow supplies in as the snow seems to fall when we least expect it. Some friends have already brought their snow gear to school. Thank you to those for thinking ahead. Leading by their example, I encourage you to bring a set of winter weather clothing to leave here at school. In doing so, your child will be prepared to have fun in the cold each and every day. Thanks for helping us stay warm while we run and play in the cold, winter fun!
~ warm winter coat
~ thick gloves
and
~ a hat.
Other helpful items include a scarf to block the wind from little faces and pants for those friends that like to wear dresses without tights.
When the first snow falls, snow pants and boots will be required to play in the snow. Please prepare ahead of time to bring these snow supplies in as the snow seems to fall when we least expect it. Some friends have already brought their snow gear to school. Thank you to those for thinking ahead. Leading by their example, I encourage you to bring a set of winter weather clothing to leave here at school. In doing so, your child will be prepared to have fun in the cold each and every day. Thanks for helping us stay warm while we run and play in the cold, winter fun!
Library Field Trip TOMORROW 11.28
Don't forget, TOMORROW, Wednesday, November 28th, we will be traveling to the Iowa City Public Library for our monthly field trip.
While there, we will enjoy shopping for books, using the self-checkout, listening to story time, and eating lunch INSIDE the library's story time room. How fun!
Don't forget your library card!
While there, we will enjoy shopping for books, using the self-checkout, listening to story time, and eating lunch INSIDE the library's story time room. How fun!
Don't forget your library card!
Willowwind's Annual Fund Update - Thank You!
We want to thank you so much for giving to this year's annual fund. Willowwind's excellent educational program is the direct result of the generosity of Willowwind families, friends, alumni, grandparents, board, faculty and staff. We sincerely appreciate our supporters for making Willowwind School the exceptional school it is today.
If you haven't had the opportunity to give to the annual fund, please take the time this week to either pledge or donate using the donation envelopes at the front desk. Pledges or gifts can be made all year long, but our fall annual fund campaign ends THIS Friday, November 30th. Remember, the class with the highest participation will earn a FREE field trip to the Iowa Children's Museum. The Cottontails would love a chance to play at learn at the Children's Museum! Your participation at ANY level is MUCH appreciated.
Also, THIS Thursday, November 29th, we will be making coffee, available in the foyer. Inspired by a grandmother of a current student, we're asking that you save what you'd normally spend on a Thursday coffee and donate it to Willowwind. Sincere thanks for all your past, present, and future support.
If you haven't had the opportunity to give to the annual fund, please take the time this week to either pledge or donate using the donation envelopes at the front desk. Pledges or gifts can be made all year long, but our fall annual fund campaign ends THIS Friday, November 30th. Remember, the class with the highest participation will earn a FREE field trip to the Iowa Children's Museum. The Cottontails would love a chance to play at learn at the Children's Museum! Your participation at ANY level is MUCH appreciated.
Also, THIS Thursday, November 29th, we will be making coffee, available in the foyer. Inspired by a grandmother of a current student, we're asking that you save what you'd normally spend on a Thursday coffee and donate it to Willowwind. Sincere thanks for all your past, present, and future support.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Msg from the Wolves - Plant Forum 11.20 @ 9:00am
Here is a message from our Wolf friends…
The Wolf Class will be hosting a forum about plants tomorrow, Tuesday, November 20, from 9:00-9:45 am. The forum will include presentations which overview the importance of plants, ways in which plants impact society, and issues regarding their growth and production (use of heirloom and genetically modified plants). The forum will conclude with a science-fair-style opportunity to visit individual student booths at which students will be sharing what they learned about the individual plant he/she researched and how it has impacted society. Students' formal papers on their plants will also be available to read. We hope you will join us!
The Wolf Class will be hosting a forum about plants tomorrow, Tuesday, November 20, from 9:00-9:45 am. The forum will include presentations which overview the importance of plants, ways in which plants impact society, and issues regarding their growth and production (use of heirloom and genetically modified plants). The forum will conclude with a science-fair-style opportunity to visit individual student booths at which students will be sharing what they learned about the individual plant he/she researched and how it has impacted society. Students' formal papers on their plants will also be available to read. We hope you will join us!
Sunday, November 18, 2012
We Are Thankful
It has been a wonderful week gearing up for Thanksgiving. We have been discussing the meaning of Thanksgiving and have been writing, writing, writing about all the things we are thankful for.
I am most thankful for your child. I am incredibly grateful for their smiling faces and happy laughs. They have grown so much in the first 65 days of school, and their love for writing has grown tenfold overnight. The Cottontails were eager to brainstorm their thankful for ideas in their "Seed Journals". Then they picked four items to list on their "Thankful Leaves". What I was most impressed was their eagerness to use their "kid-spelling". Their writing confidence was at an all time high, and they were so excited to write on their own. When finished with the leaves, I asked, "Friends, would you like to move into Centers or would you like to spend some more time writing about what you are thankful for?"
They all responded with, "We want to write some more!"
So, I quickly gathered the supplies for the writing activity I had planned for the next day and we continued to write some more. This time we wrote on feathers for our Feast centerpieces. They were excited to continue to write about how thankful they are. Cottontails are thankful for…
~ family
~ friends
~ their homes
~ clean water
~ penguins
~ teachers
~ school
As we finished our writings, we talked about their next steps. They were so excited to see their "Thankful Leaves" on display for friends and families to see, and they were eager to hear about how we would use their "Thankful Feathers". The next day we continued to discuss the feathers they so eagerly created. When we realized that they would go on our pumpkin turkeys and that because of this not all of their writing would be seen we began to talk about ways to make our work even better. An unexpected discussion of revision occurred and the Cottontails were eager to try writing on feathers again, this time paying closer attention to where they wrote on the feathers ensuring that their writing would be seen when adhered to the turkey's pumpkin body. When they realized that we'd be able to see both sides of the feathers on the centerpieces they asked, "Can we write on the backs, too?"
While in awe of their excitement, I eagerly replied, "Of course, friends! Of course!"
It goes to show how meaningful authentic writing pieces can be. Give a child a topic that they care about and they will run with it. They were engaged, they were excited, and they quickly became confident writers! This small moment in our classroom will leave a large impact on my heart. Thank you for allowing me to share these moments with your child. I am truly thankful!!
PS: Be sure to check out our Thankful Tree and your child's touching handprint leaves. Also, your child's Thankful Feathers will be a part of their larger Pumpkin Turkey centerpiece for our K-6 feast. Centerpieces will go home on Tuesday so you can further enjoy your child's beautiful work and writing over your Thanksgiving Break. Happy Thanksgiving, friends!
I am most thankful for your child. I am incredibly grateful for their smiling faces and happy laughs. They have grown so much in the first 65 days of school, and their love for writing has grown tenfold overnight. The Cottontails were eager to brainstorm their thankful for ideas in their "Seed Journals". Then they picked four items to list on their "Thankful Leaves". What I was most impressed was their eagerness to use their "kid-spelling". Their writing confidence was at an all time high, and they were so excited to write on their own. When finished with the leaves, I asked, "Friends, would you like to move into Centers or would you like to spend some more time writing about what you are thankful for?"
They all responded with, "We want to write some more!"
So, I quickly gathered the supplies for the writing activity I had planned for the next day and we continued to write some more. This time we wrote on feathers for our Feast centerpieces. They were excited to continue to write about how thankful they are. Cottontails are thankful for…
~ family
~ friends
~ their homes
~ clean water
~ penguins
~ teachers
~ school
As we finished our writings, we talked about their next steps. They were so excited to see their "Thankful Leaves" on display for friends and families to see, and they were eager to hear about how we would use their "Thankful Feathers". The next day we continued to discuss the feathers they so eagerly created. When we realized that they would go on our pumpkin turkeys and that because of this not all of their writing would be seen we began to talk about ways to make our work even better. An unexpected discussion of revision occurred and the Cottontails were eager to try writing on feathers again, this time paying closer attention to where they wrote on the feathers ensuring that their writing would be seen when adhered to the turkey's pumpkin body. When they realized that we'd be able to see both sides of the feathers on the centerpieces they asked, "Can we write on the backs, too?"
While in awe of their excitement, I eagerly replied, "Of course, friends! Of course!"
It goes to show how meaningful authentic writing pieces can be. Give a child a topic that they care about and they will run with it. They were engaged, they were excited, and they quickly became confident writers! This small moment in our classroom will leave a large impact on my heart. Thank you for allowing me to share these moments with your child. I am truly thankful!!
PS: Be sure to check out our Thankful Tree and your child's touching handprint leaves. Also, your child's Thankful Feathers will be a part of their larger Pumpkin Turkey centerpiece for our K-6 feast. Centerpieces will go home on Tuesday so you can further enjoy your child's beautiful work and writing over your Thanksgiving Break. Happy Thanksgiving, friends!
Our Thanksgiving Feast
Tuesday brings our much loved tradition, the Thanksgiving Feast. Each year, the K-6 students prepare dishes to share with their school mates, teachers, and office friends. This year, the students will be preparing for an unprecedented 75+ guests (students, teachers, administration, and a few special community members).
On Monday, the Cottontails will cook SIX dozen Pumpkin Cookies to serve at Tuesday's feast. We are set with ingredients and supplies and are excited to spend the Morning baking together. In addition to our Pumpkin Cookies the rest of Feast menu includes:
Homemade Applesauce - Kindergarten Friends
Pumpkin Seeds - Cottontails
Pumpkin Soup - Conejitos
Sauteed Zucchini - Prairie Racerunners
Corn Muffins - Burrowing Owls
Mac & Cheese - Wolves
Mashed Potatoes - Wolves
Turkey & Ham - Family Donations
We are so excited for a special Monday and Tuesday. Your child will not need a lunch for Tuesday. Please let me know if you have any questions. I know that your child will be excited to share all the fun we have when they see you Tuesday after school.
On Monday, the Cottontails will cook SIX dozen Pumpkin Cookies to serve at Tuesday's feast. We are set with ingredients and supplies and are excited to spend the Morning baking together. In addition to our Pumpkin Cookies the rest of Feast menu includes:
Homemade Applesauce - Kindergarten Friends
Pumpkin Seeds - Cottontails
Pumpkin Soup - Conejitos
Sauteed Zucchini - Prairie Racerunners
Corn Muffins - Burrowing Owls
Mac & Cheese - Wolves
Mashed Potatoes - Wolves
Turkey & Ham - Family Donations
We are so excited for a special Monday and Tuesday. Your child will not need a lunch for Tuesday. Please let me know if you have any questions. I know that your child will be excited to share all the fun we have when they see you Tuesday after school.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
The Season of Giving - Willowwind's Annual Fund
The season of giving is here and Willowwind is reaching the end of its Annual Fund drive. As of Friday, Willowwind is excited to have a 33% parent participation rate in our Annual Fund! Thank you parents! Your support helps us in so many ways. No amount is too small or too large. If you haven't had a chance to donate please do so before November 30th. Donation envelopes are found at the Front Desk. If the Cottontails can bring in the largest percentage of parental support per class then we can earn the coveted field trip prize to the Children's Museum. Help us earn that field trip! We'd love to take a trip to one of our favorite places! Remember, no amount is too small. Your participation is what matters most. Thank you in advance!!
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Quiet Observations 1:
One of the joys of being a Kindergarten teacher are the moments when I can sit back and just watch and listen to the excited chatter that occurs throughout the school year. I love to watch these tender moments and write them down to capture and remember before the flit on by.
It is my pleasure to share them with you. Welcome to my favorite segment of Kindergarten blogging….Quiet Observations. Here I can share them with you - sometimes, they make take form in interactions between a group of students and sometimes they are the cutest quotes imaginable. This segment includes some sweet words from your children. I have been collecting quotes over the last few weeks for your enjoyment. Thank you for allowing me to share in their sweetness.
Studying the Half-Dollar on the 50th Day of School
Michelle: (after students inquired about going to the "bank" to trade in our two quarters for "that big coin") You know friends, we don't use the half dollar anymore. We no longer trade in two quarters. People think it is just as easy to carry around quarters.
Student 1: What?!?!
Student 2: Why?!?!
Michelle: Perhaps it is because people think the half dollar was too big and heavy.
Student 3: This is unfair!
Student 4: Yeah! The president on the half dollar has rights, too!
Students Coming in at the Start of the School Day
Student 1: Michelle! Michelle! We saw a deer on our way to school. It was huge! It was THIIIIISSS big (holds out arms)!
Michelle: Wow! That is so neat! Was it a boy deer or a girl deer?
Student 1: I don't know, but it was huge! It was even bigger than you! It was so big!
Student 2: Michelle! Michelle! Guess what?
Michelle: What!
Student 2: You'll never believe this. I AM A READER!!
Michelle: You are! How do you know?
Student 2: See when I read words like (reads name off of name plate) that is reading! See how easy it is!
Michelle: Wow! You are a reader!
Student 2: Yeah, and I'm a writer, too!
Michelle: Really?
Student 2: Yeah when I spell words on paper like (spells out name) that is writing. Easy peasy!
Reading My Teacher for President
We get to the page when the story discusses how teachers are involved in "health care" (band-aids and TLC) just like the president.
Student 1: Yeah! Obama Care rocks!
Student 2: Hey! There are Republicans in the room.
Student 3: I think Romney care sound sooo much better.
Regardless of political beliefs, it was clear that their excitement for the election was contagious.
Reading Interesting Facts About Pumpkins
Pumpkin Fact: Pumpkins were once recommended for removing freckles.
Michelle: Huh?!? Maybe I should use pumpkin!
Student 1: No! No! No! You can't!
Michelle: Why?
Student 2: Because we like your freckles.
Student 3: We love your freckles!
Student 2: Yeah! They are you! You should love them, too!
Michelle: You're right! I do love them. No pumpkin on my freckles.
Student 1: Yeah! No pumpkins allowed!
Preparing to Attend the ISACS Conference in Louisville
Student: Michelle? When are you leaving?!?
Michelle: In about 2 hours.
Student: 2 hours?!?! Ugh! We can't wait for Ms. Kim!
I only knew that a comment like that came from the heart and is a sign of how wonderful it is to build routine with substitute teachers. The Cottontails have equal love for all teachers and comments like this make me realize that my days away are filled with love, structure, routine, and fun.
It is my pleasure to share them with you. Welcome to my favorite segment of Kindergarten blogging….Quiet Observations. Here I can share them with you - sometimes, they make take form in interactions between a group of students and sometimes they are the cutest quotes imaginable. This segment includes some sweet words from your children. I have been collecting quotes over the last few weeks for your enjoyment. Thank you for allowing me to share in their sweetness.
Studying the Half-Dollar on the 50th Day of School
Michelle: (after students inquired about going to the "bank" to trade in our two quarters for "that big coin") You know friends, we don't use the half dollar anymore. We no longer trade in two quarters. People think it is just as easy to carry around quarters.
Student 1: What?!?!
Student 2: Why?!?!
Michelle: Perhaps it is because people think the half dollar was too big and heavy.
Student 3: This is unfair!
Student 4: Yeah! The president on the half dollar has rights, too!
Students Coming in at the Start of the School Day
Student 1: Michelle! Michelle! We saw a deer on our way to school. It was huge! It was THIIIIISSS big (holds out arms)!
Michelle: Wow! That is so neat! Was it a boy deer or a girl deer?
Student 1: I don't know, but it was huge! It was even bigger than you! It was so big!
Student 2: Michelle! Michelle! Guess what?
Michelle: What!
Student 2: You'll never believe this. I AM A READER!!
Michelle: You are! How do you know?
Student 2: See when I read words like (reads name off of name plate) that is reading! See how easy it is!
Michelle: Wow! You are a reader!
Student 2: Yeah, and I'm a writer, too!
Michelle: Really?
Student 2: Yeah when I spell words on paper like (spells out name) that is writing. Easy peasy!
Reading My Teacher for President
We get to the page when the story discusses how teachers are involved in "health care" (band-aids and TLC) just like the president.
Student 1: Yeah! Obama Care rocks!
Student 2: Hey! There are Republicans in the room.
Student 3: I think Romney care sound sooo much better.
Regardless of political beliefs, it was clear that their excitement for the election was contagious.
Reading Interesting Facts About Pumpkins
Pumpkin Fact: Pumpkins were once recommended for removing freckles.
Michelle: Huh?!? Maybe I should use pumpkin!
Student 1: No! No! No! You can't!
Michelle: Why?
Student 2: Because we like your freckles.
Student 3: We love your freckles!
Student 2: Yeah! They are you! You should love them, too!
Michelle: You're right! I do love them. No pumpkin on my freckles.
Student 1: Yeah! No pumpkins allowed!
Preparing to Attend the ISACS Conference in Louisville
Student: Michelle? When are you leaving?!?
Michelle: In about 2 hours.
Student: 2 hours?!?! Ugh! We can't wait for Ms. Kim!
I only knew that a comment like that came from the heart and is a sign of how wonderful it is to build routine with substitute teachers. The Cottontails have equal love for all teachers and comments like this make me realize that my days away are filled with love, structure, routine, and fun.
Library Books & Library Field Trip
Don't forget! Your child's library books from our October field trip are due TOMORROW (Wednesday, November 14th). Please be sure to drop them off at the Eastside HyVee ICPL Book Bin (in the pharmacy drive though) before school tomorrow or directly at the ICPL to ensure an on time return.
Also, the Kindergarten classes will be making their November field trip to the library on Wednesday, November 28th. Please be sure they bring their library card.
We love library days!
Photo from our ICPL Storytime!
Also, the Kindergarten classes will be making their November field trip to the library on Wednesday, November 28th. Please be sure they bring their library card.
We love library days!
Photo from our ICPL Storytime!
Friday, October 26, 2012
Halloween Celebration - Volunteer Opportunity
On, Wednesday, October 31st, we will be celebrating Halloween with our entire Willowwind family. Please send your child's Halloween costume to school. We will be changing into our costumes in the afternoon to prepare for our parade and partner family pumpkin reveal. Please leave all small accessory parts at home, and please no weapons or gore.
Parents are welcome to join our Halloween parade and pumpkin reveal on Wednesday, October 31st. Please arrive by 1:55, in the GD Space, if you would like to participate in the fun.
Afternoon Halloween Schedule
2:00 K-6 Halloween parade through the GD Space for your enjoyment!
2:15 - 3:15 Pumpkin Reveal and Costume Reveal
I am looking for a two families to each bring in a healthy snack for 20 students. If you would be willing to bring in a snack please just e-mail me. A great example would be: Pretzels, apples, fruit, veggies, cheese…etc. NO PEANUTS, please! This can count towards 30 minutes of volunteer hours.
Parents are welcome to join our Halloween parade and pumpkin reveal on Wednesday, October 31st. Please arrive by 1:55, in the GD Space, if you would like to participate in the fun.
Afternoon Halloween Schedule
2:00 K-6 Halloween parade through the GD Space for your enjoyment!
2:15 - 3:15 Pumpkin Reveal and Costume Reveal
I am looking for a two families to each bring in a healthy snack for 20 students. If you would be willing to bring in a snack please just e-mail me. A great example would be: Pretzels, apples, fruit, veggies, cheese…etc. NO PEANUTS, please! This can count towards 30 minutes of volunteer hours.
I Can Read DVD
On Monday, your child will bring home a special "I Can Read: Songs for Reading" DVD. This DVD is a gift to you from the Iowa City Noon Rotary Club. It can further help your child learn to read and write important sight words to build their early literacy skills. Go to I Can Read's website for more information. Enjoy! And thank you to Iowa City Noon Rotary Club!
Math, Math, Math!
Math has become a favorite time of our school day. Whether we are…
working together as a large group…
playing partner games…
applying concepts learned to Center Time activities (sorting stuffed animals by attributes!)…
completing pages in our workbook...
…or singing catchy songs we definitely have a lot of Math fun each and every day.
Speaking of catchy songs! Check out the lyrics to Penny, Nickel, Dime! It is quite the hit in the Cottontail classroom. During yesterday's indoor lunch recess, I walked into the classroom (where the Cottontails were engaged in art activities) to hear the most beautiful Kindergarten rendition of our new coin song. While working together the Cottontails decided to sing our new, favorite song together. It was very sweet. Has your Kindergartener come home humming or singing our new tune? I sure have!
In addition, the Kindergarteners are so excited to have recently completed their first Math workbook. They are excited to share their work with you at upcoming conferences. As we finish Unit 2, we will take our first assessment. This assessment will help us further understand your child's math progress. We will also examine this assessment at your child's upcoming conference.
In the coming weeks, we will begin to focus on learning our basic math facts. I can tell that your child is eager to further understand the concepts of addition and subtraction. Look to the upcoming October / November newsletter for more information on upcoming Math units.
Finally, don't forget, Math Packets are due back to school each Friday. If you have questions or concerns about your child's Math Packet please let me know. Thanks for helping your child's love for Math grow. I am very proud of our mathematicians.
working together as a large group…
playing partner games…
applying concepts learned to Center Time activities (sorting stuffed animals by attributes!)…
completing pages in our workbook...
…or singing catchy songs we definitely have a lot of Math fun each and every day.
Speaking of catchy songs! Check out the lyrics to Penny, Nickel, Dime! It is quite the hit in the Cottontail classroom. During yesterday's indoor lunch recess, I walked into the classroom (where the Cottontails were engaged in art activities) to hear the most beautiful Kindergarten rendition of our new coin song. While working together the Cottontails decided to sing our new, favorite song together. It was very sweet. Has your Kindergartener come home humming or singing our new tune? I sure have!
In addition, the Kindergarteners are so excited to have recently completed their first Math workbook. They are excited to share their work with you at upcoming conferences. As we finish Unit 2, we will take our first assessment. This assessment will help us further understand your child's math progress. We will also examine this assessment at your child's upcoming conference.
In the coming weeks, we will begin to focus on learning our basic math facts. I can tell that your child is eager to further understand the concepts of addition and subtraction. Look to the upcoming October / November newsletter for more information on upcoming Math units.
Finally, don't forget, Math Packets are due back to school each Friday. If you have questions or concerns about your child's Math Packet please let me know. Thanks for helping your child's love for Math grow. I am very proud of our mathematicians.
Smile!
Our Apple Smile treat we enjoyed while watching The Wind in the Willows. What a fun Friday! Yum!
Favorite Kinder Quote from watching the movie, "Ohhh!! I just LOVE happy endings!"
Favorite Kinder Quote from watching the movie, "Ohhh!! I just LOVE happy endings!"
Community Event - Run for Relief
A community event to pass on. Participate how ever you can!
Recently, a City High School student from the Women's Cross Country Team came to GD to present their annual
Run for Relief
A Run/Walk for Children's Cancer Connection
Saturday, November 3rd 10:00 am
at Lower City Park in Iowa City
Find the registration form online at cityhighruns.org or on their Facebook page: Run for Relief. You can also find more information at Willowwind's Front Desk and outside the Cottontails' classroom.
If you can't come consider making a donation! Send donations to:
Run/Walk for Children's Cancer Connection
430 Crestview Avenue
Iowa City, Iowa 52245
Checks payable to City High Women's Cros Country Fundraising
Call or email Lilana Coelho with questions and comments.
319.621.6390
lcc4art@yahoo.com
Recently, a City High School student from the Women's Cross Country Team came to GD to present their annual
Run for Relief
A Run/Walk for Children's Cancer Connection
Saturday, November 3rd 10:00 am
at Lower City Park in Iowa City
Find the registration form online at cityhighruns.org or on their Facebook page: Run for Relief. You can also find more information at Willowwind's Front Desk and outside the Cottontails' classroom.
If you can't come consider making a donation! Send donations to:
Run/Walk for Children's Cancer Connection
430 Crestview Avenue
Iowa City, Iowa 52245
Checks payable to City High Women's Cros Country Fundraising
Call or email Lilana Coelho with questions and comments.
319.621.6390
lcc4art@yahoo.com
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Dia de Los Muertos
A message from our Spanish teacher!
This year we will be celebrating Day of the Dead as a Willowwind Community in a slightly different way. Many of the students have learned the significance and cultural practices of the Mexican holiday from past years at Willowwind. This year students will apply that knowledge to their own lives. Instead of making sugar skulls during a GD this year, students will each make a paper flower on October 30th. Students will attach a tag/leaf to their flower in remembrance of one special person in their life (or their family’s life) who has passed on. (As an alternative option students may choose a popular historical figure who has died rather than a family member or friend.) On each flower tag/leaf, students will write the name of the person and their relationship to that person in Spanish: abuela (grandma), amigo (friend), vecino (neighbor), etc.. During a special GD on Friday, November 2, students will say who their flower is for and place it in a vase at the center of the circle. Please talk with your child before October 30th about who they might remember with their flower. We will will talking about Day of the Dead in Spanish class this week and next.
Families are welcome to join us from 12:15 - 12:45 for a special Dia de los Muertos Group Discussion on November 2nd. If you would like to VOLUNTEER to make “pan de muerto” (a special sweet bread with anise) you may pick up a copy of the recipe at the Front Desk. There are also many versions available online. One site is: www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/1506/pan.html
We will share the "pan de muerto" at the end of the GD celebration.
Also, we will be setting up the altar on Thursday, November 1st, after school in the GD area. Please join us!!
Muchas gracias,
Danielle
This year we will be celebrating Day of the Dead as a Willowwind Community in a slightly different way. Many of the students have learned the significance and cultural practices of the Mexican holiday from past years at Willowwind. This year students will apply that knowledge to their own lives. Instead of making sugar skulls during a GD this year, students will each make a paper flower on October 30th. Students will attach a tag/leaf to their flower in remembrance of one special person in their life (or their family’s life) who has passed on. (As an alternative option students may choose a popular historical figure who has died rather than a family member or friend.) On each flower tag/leaf, students will write the name of the person and their relationship to that person in Spanish: abuela (grandma), amigo (friend), vecino (neighbor), etc.. During a special GD on Friday, November 2, students will say who their flower is for and place it in a vase at the center of the circle. Please talk with your child before October 30th about who they might remember with their flower. We will will talking about Day of the Dead in Spanish class this week and next.
Families are welcome to join us from 12:15 - 12:45 for a special Dia de los Muertos Group Discussion on November 2nd. If you would like to VOLUNTEER to make “pan de muerto” (a special sweet bread with anise) you may pick up a copy of the recipe at the Front Desk. There are also many versions available online. One site is: www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/1506/pan.html
We will share the "pan de muerto" at the end of the GD celebration.
Also, we will be setting up the altar on Thursday, November 1st, after school in the GD area. Please join us!!
Muchas gracias,
Danielle
Trick or Treat for UNICEF
In conjunction with UNICEF, the Wolf class has coordinated a trick-or-treat giving fund to help children in need around the world. Today, your child brought home a box to help collect donations for UNICEF. Between now and Halloween night help your child collect spare change donations by visiting your own local community - family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. UNICEF is proud of it's strong trick-or-treating tradition where students collect donations while trick-or-treating for candy, too. This money you raise will help UNICEF provide clean water, nutrition, education and more to millions of kids in need around the world.
Willowwind students have set forth a goal to raise $425 between now and October 31st. Today, in Afternoon Meeting, the Cottontails discovered that each Willowwind student would need to raise between $6 and $7 to meet our goal. No donation amount is too big or too small and $6 or $7 is just an idea of a possible small, obtainable goal for your child to try and reach. It is important to remember it is the thought that counts and any effort is truly appreciated.
Did you know?
• a packet of special powder to mix with water to save children from dehydration can be given with $0.07 in donations
• a notebook and pencil can be given with $0.50 in donations
• 24 protein biscuits can be given with $1 in donations
• vaccines can be administered with $17 in donations
• A School-in-a-Bag with basic classroom supplies for 40 students can be given with $60 in donations
Go to UNICEF's Trick-or-Treat website for more information. Thank you for your help!
Here is additional information from UNICEF to help your child learn more about our coordinated efforts.
Willowwind students have set forth a goal to raise $425 between now and October 31st. Today, in Afternoon Meeting, the Cottontails discovered that each Willowwind student would need to raise between $6 and $7 to meet our goal. No donation amount is too big or too small and $6 or $7 is just an idea of a possible small, obtainable goal for your child to try and reach. It is important to remember it is the thought that counts and any effort is truly appreciated.
Did you know?
• a packet of special powder to mix with water to save children from dehydration can be given with $0.07 in donations
• a notebook and pencil can be given with $0.50 in donations
• 24 protein biscuits can be given with $1 in donations
• vaccines can be administered with $17 in donations
• A School-in-a-Bag with basic classroom supplies for 40 students can be given with $60 in donations
Go to UNICEF's Trick-or-Treat website for more information. Thank you for your help!
Here is additional information from UNICEF to help your child learn more about our coordinated efforts.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Don't Forget - Library Card & Pumpkin Decorations - Tomorrow (Wed 10.24)
Please bring your child's library card to school tomorrow. Via the Towncrest bus, we will leave Willowwind around 9:30 and return around 12:15, just in time for pumpkin decorating in GD! While at the library we will check out three books, listen to a story time, enjoy a picnic lunch outside (it is suppose to be a beautiful day), and hopefully have time to play on the downtown play structure. We can't wait!
Also, if you received an email regarding pumpkin decorations please be sure you bring them in by tomorrow. We will begin decorating our pumpkins at GD. If you did not receive an email then there is no need for your family to worry about said decorations. Thanks so much!
See you tomorrow!
Also, if you received an email regarding pumpkin decorations please be sure you bring them in by tomorrow. We will begin decorating our pumpkins at GD. If you did not receive an email then there is no need for your family to worry about said decorations. Thanks so much!
See you tomorrow!
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Bloomsbury Farm Field Trip
Monday gave us the most amazing day to travel to Atkins, Iowa to visit Bloomsbury Farm. The weather was gorgeous and there was so much to do. We are sure glad we were able to extend our day to take in more of the sights and sounds. Thank you to Eonju and Carrie for your help to make the day most successful. Come…take a picture walk through our field trip.
The pumpkin patch at Bloomsbury Farm!
Snack time before the fun begins.
The Petting Zoo - home to Daisy, the baby cow, rabbits, goats, and a miniature donkey.
Time for the hay rack ride…
…through the tall corn stalks…
…and past the bright orange of the pumpkin patch!
A highlight of our morning - the jumping pillow (Ms. Michelle's favorite)!
Into the straw tunnel...
…and onto the corn bin.
"Bury us, Michelle!"
Down the tunnel slide (Ms. Michelle's second favorite :) ).
Spiders on the spider web!
A trip through the tire maze.
Some tires were bigger than us! Teamwork was definitely needed!
Let's get "lost" in the corn maze!
"Hold my hand. Are we lost?" "Not when we're together!"
A group photo before…
…pumpkin picking time!
Our pumpkins!
A beautiful day at Bloomsbury Farm!
Check out more pictures on the October 2012 photo page!
The pumpkin patch at Bloomsbury Farm!
Snack time before the fun begins.
The Petting Zoo - home to Daisy, the baby cow, rabbits, goats, and a miniature donkey.
Time for the hay rack ride…
…through the tall corn stalks…
…and past the bright orange of the pumpkin patch!
A highlight of our morning - the jumping pillow (Ms. Michelle's favorite)!
Into the straw tunnel...
…and onto the corn bin.
"Bury us, Michelle!"
Down the tunnel slide (Ms. Michelle's second favorite :) ).
Spiders on the spider web!
A trip through the tire maze.
Some tires were bigger than us! Teamwork was definitely needed!
Let's get "lost" in the corn maze!
"Hold my hand. Are we lost?" "Not when we're together!"
A group photo before…
…pumpkin picking time!
Our pumpkins!
A beautiful day at Bloomsbury Farm!
Check out more pictures on the October 2012 photo page!
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