The Cottontails have been gearing up to become strong readers by creating personalized book bags to transport the many books they will read back and forth from home to school. Throughout the first month of school, we decorated one side of our book bags with hand-drawn illustrations and on the other side we used our handprints to create a flower - an ode to our yearlong Connections to Nature theme. It was such a fun project to work with your child on. They loved the tickle of the paint brush on their hand and worked hard to detail their favorite part of Kindergarten on the other side of the bag. Ask your child about their illustration!
Your child's Book Bag (and the books inside) need to travel back and forth from home to school each day. Each week you will see your child's collection of paper books grow. It is important that these books return to school each day as we will use these books within daily classroom activities. You will notice that the books chosen for your child fit with their current literacy needs. Please take time to read these books with your child each night. You will find that with a little help your child will be able to read some of the books independently.
For your help, I have included a reference key to help explain the black and white book's star system.
Colored Star = I can read this all by myself!
No Star = I may need some help with this book.
Red Star = This book can stay at home.
I ask that you have your child refrain from writing or coloring in these books while the are in use for classroom activities. While at school, we may highlight words during word hunts or become authors and illustrators while adding a page or two to the end of the books. We discussed that the students are to only write or color in the books when they are given direct instructions to do so. We will be cleaning out the book bags on a regular basis so they don't get too full. The paper books can be kept at home (and colored in if your child so desires) when a red star sticker appears in the top right corner of the cover.
Please let me know if you have questions. Look for an email to further detail your child's reading progress in the coming week. Enjoy that reading time with your child! They are excited to read to you!
PS: A big thank you to Alicia and Holly for volunteering to help assemble our black and white books!
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Volunteer Opportunity: Harvest Fest Needs
The faculty, staff, and WW Friends and Family are busy gearing up for our much anticipated Harvest Fest on Saturday, October 12. Your help is needed! Please use the GoogleSpreadsheet to sign up to help provide a variety of needs including:
• 15 gallons of cider,
• 6-8 hay bales,
• baby pumpkins,
• and much, much, more!
Keep referring back to the spreadsheet in the coming weeks as faculty and staff will continue to add volunteer needs as they arise.
Harvest Fest Volunteer Sign Up
• 15 gallons of cider,
• 6-8 hay bales,
• baby pumpkins,
• and much, much, more!
Keep referring back to the spreadsheet in the coming weeks as faculty and staff will continue to add volunteer needs as they arise.
Harvest Fest Volunteer Sign Up
Apples, Bees, & Fun - Oh My!
Our trip to Honey Creek Acres was filled with a lot of learning and a lot of fun! Our new friends at Honey Creek Acres kept us very busy. Take a picture walk through our fun day enjoying the orchard, the weather, and each other.
Post Picnic Lunch Fun
Why are bees important to apple orchards?
Our Cottontails thoroughly impressed the friends at Honey Creek Acres. We talked about:
• the three types of bees - the Queen, the Workers, the Drones
• flowers' nectar & honeycomb
• flowers' pollen & bees' important role in pollination
Bees are busy workers! Did you know that a apple blossom has to be pollinated eight times to bloom into an apple?!
A working bee hive! Can you find the Queen? Honey Creek Acres has 25 bee boxes on site to help with the pollination of their orchard's apple trees.
The bees did their job. Now it's our turn. How do we safely pick an apple to be sure the blossom stays attached to the tree for next year's crop? Ask your apple expert…they'll know. They even made up noises to accompany the picking actions.
A wearable sack that apple pickers use to carefully transfer apples from the orchard to crates.
Hay Rack Ride Time!
We were able to pick apples right off the tree and enjoy them immediately for a treat!! Honey Creek Acres graciously gave us a WHOLE BAG of apples for class projects. Look for some yummy blog posts soon about delicious baking activities!
As always, a ton of fun was had! Thank you to Jessica, Sally, and Lisa for joining us in our day at the orchard
Post Picnic Lunch Fun
Why are bees important to apple orchards?
Our Cottontails thoroughly impressed the friends at Honey Creek Acres. We talked about:
• the three types of bees - the Queen, the Workers, the Drones
• flowers' nectar & honeycomb
• flowers' pollen & bees' important role in pollination
Bees are busy workers! Did you know that a apple blossom has to be pollinated eight times to bloom into an apple?!
A working bee hive! Can you find the Queen? Honey Creek Acres has 25 bee boxes on site to help with the pollination of their orchard's apple trees.
The bees did their job. Now it's our turn. How do we safely pick an apple to be sure the blossom stays attached to the tree for next year's crop? Ask your apple expert…they'll know. They even made up noises to accompany the picking actions.
A wearable sack that apple pickers use to carefully transfer apples from the orchard to crates.
Hay Rack Ride Time!
We were able to pick apples right off the tree and enjoy them immediately for a treat!! Honey Creek Acres graciously gave us a WHOLE BAG of apples for class projects. Look for some yummy blog posts soon about delicious baking activities!
As always, a ton of fun was had! Thank you to Jessica, Sally, and Lisa for joining us in our day at the orchard
Food Drive October 8-14
A letter from the students in the Burrowing Owl Class
Dear Parents and Kids,
The Burrowing Owl class is organizing for people that do not have enough money to afford good food. We are collecting it for the River Community Church Food Pantry. We want to help the church help others because they allows use to use their parking lot for events. The food we would like you to bring is anything canned, such as tuna, soup, beans, chili, fruit, vegetables, or anything that is easy to cook. Please bring the food for the Harvest Festival on October 12. you can also bring the food to school anytime between October 8 and October 14. you may put the canned foods in the two bins in the entryway at the front of the school. Thank you for reading!
Sincerely,
the Burrowing Owl Class
Dear Parents and Kids,
The Burrowing Owl class is organizing for people that do not have enough money to afford good food. We are collecting it for the River Community Church Food Pantry. We want to help the church help others because they allows use to use their parking lot for events. The food we would like you to bring is anything canned, such as tuna, soup, beans, chili, fruit, vegetables, or anything that is easy to cook. Please bring the food for the Harvest Festival on October 12. you can also bring the food to school anytime between October 8 and October 14. you may put the canned foods in the two bins in the entryway at the front of the school. Thank you for reading!
Sincerely,
the Burrowing Owl Class
Monday, September 23, 2013
New Routines: Math Packets
Today, as a class, we started a new routine - our Math curriculum!! The students loved the lesson and are eager for more. One Kinder asked, "Was that really Math? It was so much fun. Can we do some more?" As our technology program grows at Willowwind we are able to implement more and more technology into hands-on lessons. We test ran our Math lesson with technology and the Cottontails were enthralled! Hands were up, mouths were quiet, brains were thinking, fun was being had and learning was occurring. They were so into it we were able to complete half of Tuesday's lesson putting us ahead of the game already. Take a look at this fun picture below! Look at all those hands!!
Today we also discussed our new routine of a weekly Math packet. The Cottontails are so excited to have weekly math homework just like their older friends, partners, and family members. Please help foster this excitement as they bring home their weekly work.
Each Monday, students will take home a weekly math packet. This math packet will contain five double sided worksheets that can be completed throughout the week. These activities are supplemental activities to the activities and lessons we complete as a class throughout the week. They are meant to provide your child with added practice and reinforcement. It is my hopes that this homework routine provides you with the opportunity to take a look at some of the concepts your child is studying in Kindergarten. Today, the class brainstormed various ways to complete the packet. Some friends suggested completing one double sided page each night, other friends were eager to complete the entire packet on Monday evening, others had other ideas to divide the work up throughout the week. We all agreed, though, that waiting until Sunday night to start the packet was not the best idea.
On the following Monday morning, your child can bring their packet back to school and turn it in. If they happen to finish it earlier in the week they can certainly turn it in sooner, upon full completion. We will take part of our Monday Math time to review our work independently, with partners, in small groups, or as a large group. Please see that your child is prepared to participate in our Math review each Monday. Each double sided page should only take your child approximately five minutes to complete. This homework is meant to aid in your child's school routine. ASP kiddos are encourage to use "homework time" to complete their homework before heading home. As you begin our new Math homework routine please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.
Thank you for continuing your child's learning at home!
Today we also discussed our new routine of a weekly Math packet. The Cottontails are so excited to have weekly math homework just like their older friends, partners, and family members. Please help foster this excitement as they bring home their weekly work.
Each Monday, students will take home a weekly math packet. This math packet will contain five double sided worksheets that can be completed throughout the week. These activities are supplemental activities to the activities and lessons we complete as a class throughout the week. They are meant to provide your child with added practice and reinforcement. It is my hopes that this homework routine provides you with the opportunity to take a look at some of the concepts your child is studying in Kindergarten. Today, the class brainstormed various ways to complete the packet. Some friends suggested completing one double sided page each night, other friends were eager to complete the entire packet on Monday evening, others had other ideas to divide the work up throughout the week. We all agreed, though, that waiting until Sunday night to start the packet was not the best idea.
On the following Monday morning, your child can bring their packet back to school and turn it in. If they happen to finish it earlier in the week they can certainly turn it in sooner, upon full completion. We will take part of our Monday Math time to review our work independently, with partners, in small groups, or as a large group. Please see that your child is prepared to participate in our Math review each Monday. Each double sided page should only take your child approximately five minutes to complete. This homework is meant to aid in your child's school routine. ASP kiddos are encourage to use "homework time" to complete their homework before heading home. As you begin our new Math homework routine please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.
Thank you for continuing your child's learning at home!
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Volunteer Opportunity: Drivers Still Needed for THIS Wednesday, September 25
Drivers are still needed for THIS Wednesday's field trip to Honey Creek Acres. We will be leaving around 10:30 and should return to school around 2:00. Your support is INCREDIBLY important. Without drivers we are unable to take advantage of these wonderful community opportunities. I am still looking for three or four drivers. If I cannot find drivers we will have to cancel our field trip. Please email if you are interested. If you plan to drive, please be sure to provide Amber a copy with your driver's license and valid insurance information.
In addition, ALL Kindergarteners must have a booster seat. Please be sure to leave your child's booster seat at school on the morning of Wednesday, September 25th.
I am looking forward to your help and email of interest. Thanks in advance.
In addition, ALL Kindergarteners must have a booster seat. Please be sure to leave your child's booster seat at school on the morning of Wednesday, September 25th.
I am looking forward to your help and email of interest. Thanks in advance.
Volunteer Opportunity: Black & White Book Assembly
I am still in need of 2 parent volunteers to help with the assembly of our weekly black & white books. This is a volunteer opportunity that can be done at home and would earn each family about 30 minutes per week. Your help is greatly appreciated with this volunteer opportunity. It doesn't take much time, but its work is a HUGE ASSEST to our reading program. Please, please email me if you are interested!
Thank you in advance for your help.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Camping Day!
Camping Day was a huge success!! We…
read stories
completed activities in our Camping journal
made trail mix and roasted s'mores over our "campfire"
discussed "campfire" safety
and enjoyed our time outdoors. ("A camping we will go. A camping we will go.")
We also sang songs, made observations about Summer camping, and discussed our favorite parts of camping with our families. We'll camp again later this Fall and compare our observations from Summer to Spring. A big thank you to the parents that helped set up and tear down our campsite!! Your support is much appreciated.
read stories
completed activities in our Camping journal
made trail mix and roasted s'mores over our "campfire"
discussed "campfire" safety
and enjoyed our time outdoors. ("A camping we will go. A camping we will go.")
We also sang songs, made observations about Summer camping, and discussed our favorite parts of camping with our families. We'll camp again later this Fall and compare our observations from Summer to Spring. A big thank you to the parents that helped set up and tear down our campsite!! Your support is much appreciated.
Willowwind Girl Scouts
Join the largest girl-serving organization in the country! Enroll your daughter in Willowwind's Girl Scout Troop!
| Willowwind has partnered with the Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa to establish a troop at school. The philosophy of the Girl Scouts naturally coincides with Willowwind's curricular goals: students will participate in community-building service projects, outdoor activities, earn badges through project-based learning and have fun! |
Upcoming Events
Our fall calendar is filling up. Mark your calendars and save the date. See you at all our fun events.
1) Honey Creek Acres Field Trip
Wednesday, September 25th 10:30 - 2:00
We will be leaving at 10:30pm. We should arrive back to Willowwind around 2:00. We will take a tour of the farm, learn about apples, pumpkins, and honey from an instructor, take a hay ride and pick apples. Check out Honey Creek Acre's website. Please Note: Parent drivers are needed! Please email me if you are available to drive on this field trip. Also Note: On Wednesday, September 25th, please be sure to leave your child's booster seat. All Kindergarteners must use a booster sweet when traveling for Willowwind field trips.
2) Flu Shots Available
Wednesday, September 25th 3:00 - 5:00
The Visiting Nurses Association (VNA) will visit to provide flu immunization for WW families. This clinic is open to the public and will offer flu shots, FluMist, high dose flu shots, and pneumonia vaccine. The VNA will directly bill your insurance company, Medicare B, Medicare Replacement, or Medicaid policies. Please bring your current medical insurance card with you. The vaccine will be available at no charge to children enrolled in Medicaid or children who do not have insurance. The VNA does not need a doctor's order for children. Costs are as follows: flu shot $28, FluMist $34, high dose flu shot $45, pneumonia vaccine $90. If a cash/check payment is received at the time of the clinic, a $3 discount will be applied to the above prices.
3) Costume for Kids Drive
Monday, September 30th - Friday, October 18th
Willowwind will soon be collecting new or gently used costumes for Iowa City children. Costume for Kids was organized by WW parent, Katherine House. katherine, who organizes this event in conjunction with Iowa City's Coats for Kids project, started the costume collection for children after being concerned about the high price of costumes for low-income families. For a personal statement from Katherine, please click here. Drop-off new or gently used Halloween costumes and accessories, including shoes, wigs, hats, gloves, and unopened makeup. Donations will be accepted at Willowwind School, Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm. The last day for donations is Friday, October 18th. If you have questions or want more information in how you can help, contact Katherine House at 339-9801 or email at khouse3676@aol.com.
4) RESCHEDULED Kent Park Field Trip
Tuesday, October 1st 9:00 - 2:00
We are excited to take our 3rd annual K-6 field trip to Kent Park, a 1000 acre park, 3 miles west of Tiffin, home to prairies, forests and wetlands. Here we will spend time becoming a unified school wide family. We will also learn more about our yearlong service learning projects and participate in service learning biomes team building events.
Please be sure to remember the following for your child:
• wear layers - It can start cool and get warm. In addition, walking through the tall prairie grasses can get itchy. Long sleeves are helpful in this situation.
• waterproof shoes / boots (our feet get mucky in the watershed)
• 2 snacks, lunch, water bottle
• hat
5) Girl Scouts Begins
Thursday, October 3rd 3:30 - 4:30
See additional blog post for more information.
6) Scholastic Book Orders Due
Friday, October 4th
Keep your eyes open for Scholastic catalogs and more ordering information in your Kinder's Take Home Folder. Orders may be placed online through Scholastic's secure website. The dealing for all orders is Friday, October 4th.
7) WW Spirit Day & October First Friday Parent Coffee
Friday, October 4th 8:00 - 9:30
Do you know the difference between Twitter, Flick'r and Instagram - and which one kids are using these days? What is cyberbulling and what can you, as a parent do about it? How can we keep your children safe on the information superhighway? Visit WW's First Friday Parent Coffee to get the answers you need. Katie Fields, MPH, is a Health Educator at United Action for Youth (UAY) and will present "Your Child and the Internet". Katie routinely works with teens in the IC school district and sees firsthand how the internet both enhances and interferes with their lives. Participate in an engaging discussion while enjoying coffee and homemade treats. Sponsored by: WWFF
8) UI Homecoming Parade
Friday, October 4th 5:00
Show your Willowwind Spirt and be part of a homecoming tradition! Dress in your nave and yellow Willowwind Spirit Wear and prepare for a great evening! Gather your family and rally with Willowwind for the UI Homecoming celebration. Willowwind's participation in the UI Homecoming Parade marks a fun, annual tradition for our families. What better way to enjoy this exciting show than to march in the parade?!? RSVP ASAP! Due to homecoming guidelines, only 60 people may RSVP to this event. Click here to RSVP. Families who choose to attend will be emailed with more details about the homecoming meet up location. Click here for more information about when to arrive, what happens during the parade, and more. Click here to view the parade route. We look forward dot seeing you and celebrating our theme, "One Earth, One Spirit, One Willowwind!"
9) ICPL Books Due
Wednesday, October 9th
Your child's books checked out at our September ICPL Field Trip are due on the 9th of October.
10) Friendship Park Morning
Wednesday, October 9th 9:00 - 11:00
We will be walking to the park with both Kindergarten classrooms to explore Fall! We will enjoy snack outside, make Fall observations, and spend the morning enjoying the beautiful fall weather. Please be sure your child is wearing comfy walking shoes and has a water bottle.
11) Harvest Fest
Saturday, October 12th 2:00 - 4:00
Join our faculty, staff, and community for games, food, and fun in the name of Willowwind. More details coming soon!
1) Honey Creek Acres Field Trip
Wednesday, September 25th 10:30 - 2:00
We will be leaving at 10:30pm. We should arrive back to Willowwind around 2:00. We will take a tour of the farm, learn about apples, pumpkins, and honey from an instructor, take a hay ride and pick apples. Check out Honey Creek Acre's website. Please Note: Parent drivers are needed! Please email me if you are available to drive on this field trip. Also Note: On Wednesday, September 25th, please be sure to leave your child's booster seat. All Kindergarteners must use a booster sweet when traveling for Willowwind field trips.
2) Flu Shots Available
Wednesday, September 25th 3:00 - 5:00
The Visiting Nurses Association (VNA) will visit to provide flu immunization for WW families. This clinic is open to the public and will offer flu shots, FluMist, high dose flu shots, and pneumonia vaccine. The VNA will directly bill your insurance company, Medicare B, Medicare Replacement, or Medicaid policies. Please bring your current medical insurance card with you. The vaccine will be available at no charge to children enrolled in Medicaid or children who do not have insurance. The VNA does not need a doctor's order for children. Costs are as follows: flu shot $28, FluMist $34, high dose flu shot $45, pneumonia vaccine $90. If a cash/check payment is received at the time of the clinic, a $3 discount will be applied to the above prices.
3) Costume for Kids Drive
Monday, September 30th - Friday, October 18th
Willowwind will soon be collecting new or gently used costumes for Iowa City children. Costume for Kids was organized by WW parent, Katherine House. katherine, who organizes this event in conjunction with Iowa City's Coats for Kids project, started the costume collection for children after being concerned about the high price of costumes for low-income families. For a personal statement from Katherine, please click here. Drop-off new or gently used Halloween costumes and accessories, including shoes, wigs, hats, gloves, and unopened makeup. Donations will be accepted at Willowwind School, Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm. The last day for donations is Friday, October 18th. If you have questions or want more information in how you can help, contact Katherine House at 339-9801 or email at khouse3676@aol.com.
4) RESCHEDULED Kent Park Field Trip
Tuesday, October 1st 9:00 - 2:00
We are excited to take our 3rd annual K-6 field trip to Kent Park, a 1000 acre park, 3 miles west of Tiffin, home to prairies, forests and wetlands. Here we will spend time becoming a unified school wide family. We will also learn more about our yearlong service learning projects and participate in service learning biomes team building events.
Please be sure to remember the following for your child:
• wear layers - It can start cool and get warm. In addition, walking through the tall prairie grasses can get itchy. Long sleeves are helpful in this situation.
• waterproof shoes / boots (our feet get mucky in the watershed)
• 2 snacks, lunch, water bottle
• hat
5) Girl Scouts Begins
Thursday, October 3rd 3:30 - 4:30
See additional blog post for more information.
6) Scholastic Book Orders Due
Friday, October 4th
Keep your eyes open for Scholastic catalogs and more ordering information in your Kinder's Take Home Folder. Orders may be placed online through Scholastic's secure website. The dealing for all orders is Friday, October 4th.
7) WW Spirit Day & October First Friday Parent Coffee
Friday, October 4th 8:00 - 9:30
Do you know the difference between Twitter, Flick'r and Instagram - and which one kids are using these days? What is cyberbulling and what can you, as a parent do about it? How can we keep your children safe on the information superhighway? Visit WW's First Friday Parent Coffee to get the answers you need. Katie Fields, MPH, is a Health Educator at United Action for Youth (UAY) and will present "Your Child and the Internet". Katie routinely works with teens in the IC school district and sees firsthand how the internet both enhances and interferes with their lives. Participate in an engaging discussion while enjoying coffee and homemade treats. Sponsored by: WWFF
8) UI Homecoming Parade
Friday, October 4th 5:00
Show your Willowwind Spirt and be part of a homecoming tradition! Dress in your nave and yellow Willowwind Spirit Wear and prepare for a great evening! Gather your family and rally with Willowwind for the UI Homecoming celebration. Willowwind's participation in the UI Homecoming Parade marks a fun, annual tradition for our families. What better way to enjoy this exciting show than to march in the parade?!? RSVP ASAP! Due to homecoming guidelines, only 60 people may RSVP to this event. Click here to RSVP. Families who choose to attend will be emailed with more details about the homecoming meet up location. Click here for more information about when to arrive, what happens during the parade, and more. Click here to view the parade route. We look forward dot seeing you and celebrating our theme, "One Earth, One Spirit, One Willowwind!"
9) ICPL Books Due
Wednesday, October 9th
Your child's books checked out at our September ICPL Field Trip are due on the 9th of October.
10) Friendship Park Morning
Wednesday, October 9th 9:00 - 11:00
We will be walking to the park with both Kindergarten classrooms to explore Fall! We will enjoy snack outside, make Fall observations, and spend the morning enjoying the beautiful fall weather. Please be sure your child is wearing comfy walking shoes and has a water bottle.
11) Harvest Fest
Saturday, October 12th 2:00 - 4:00
Join our faculty, staff, and community for games, food, and fun in the name of Willowwind. More details coming soon!
Friday, September 20, 2013
WWFF Event: TOMORROW, Saturday, September 21
Willowwind Friends and Families invites you to join us for an evening of roller skating. Children of all ages may skate from 6-7. After 7 pm anyone under nine years of age must be an accomplished skater. Skates are provided.
Saturday, September 21 6:00 - 7:30
Robert A Lee Center, Iowa City
Children must be accompanied at all times by an adult.
It's FREE!
See the attached flyer for more information.
Enjoy a fun night out with your Willowwinder!
Saturday, September 21 6:00 - 7:30
Robert A Lee Center, Iowa City
Children must be accompanied at all times by an adult.
It's FREE!
See the attached flyer for more information.
Enjoy a fun night out with your Willowwinder!
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
September / October Field Trips
I am eagerly planning a variety of Fall field trips. Below details five upcoming field trips we plan to take in the coming weeks.
1) Iowa City Public Library
Wednesday, September 18th 9:30 - 12:15
We will be taking the city bus to the Iowa City Public Library. Students will enjoy a library story time, and we will also check out some books for our class. Please be sure your child has their own library card. If your child does not have a library card please fill out the "library card application" I will send home on Monday and make a trip with your child to submit the paperwork and receive your child's new library card and free gifts! Have your child bring their library card to school on Wednesday!
2) Kindergarten Camping Day
Friday, September 20th ALL DAY! 9:00 - 3:00
We will be spending the day outside with our camping gear, tents and sleeping bags! We will set up a campsite outside on Willowwind's campus near the garden. Here we will enjoy the outdoors and spend the day reading, writing, playing outside under the beautiful fall sky. We are super excited to spend the day experiencing the outdoors. PLEASE BRING A SLEEPING BAG FOR YOUR CHILD TO USE THROUGHOUT THE DAY. Please email me if you have a tent that we could use for the day. Have other supplies that may help us create our "Willowwind Campsite"? Let me know. The more fun gear the better the daytime camping experience!
3) Honey Creek Acres Field Trip
Wednesday, September 25th 10:30 - 2:00
We will be leaving at 10:30pm. We should arrive back to Willowwind around 2:00. We will take a tour of the farm, learn about apples, pumpkins, and honey from an instructor, take a hay ride and pick apples. Check out Honey Creek Acre's website. Please Note: Parent drivers are needed! Please email me if you are available to drive on this field trip. Also Note: On Wednesday, September 25th, please be sure to leave your child's booster seat. All Kindergarteners must use a booster sweet when traveling for Willowwind field trips.
3) RESCHEDULED Kent Park Field Trip
Tuesday, October 1st 9:00 - 2:00
We are excited to take our 3rd annual K-6 field trip to Kent Park, a 1000 acre park, 3 miles west of Tiffin, home to prairies, forests and wetlands. Here we will spend time becoming a unified school wide family. We will also learn more about our yearlong service learning projects and participate in service learning biomes team building events.
Please be sure to remember the following for your child:
• wear layers - It can start cool and get warm. In addition, walking through the tall prairie grasses can get itchy. Long sleeves are helpful in this situation.
• waterproof shoes / boots (our feet get mucky in the watershed)
• 2 snacks, lunch, water bottle
• hat
4) Friendship Park Morning
Wednesday, October 9th 9:00 - 11:00
We will be walking to the park with both Kindergarten classrooms to explore Fall! We will enjoy snack outside, make Fall observations, and spend the morning enjoying the beautiful fall weather. Please be sure your child is wearing comfy walking shoes and has a water bottle.
5) Iowa City Public Library
Wednesday, October 30th 9:30 - 12:15
We will be taking the city bus to the Iowa City Public Library. Students will enjoy a library story time, and we will also check out some books for our class. Have your child bring their library card to school on Wednesday, the 30th!
1) Iowa City Public Library
Wednesday, September 18th 9:30 - 12:15
We will be taking the city bus to the Iowa City Public Library. Students will enjoy a library story time, and we will also check out some books for our class. Please be sure your child has their own library card. If your child does not have a library card please fill out the "library card application" I will send home on Monday and make a trip with your child to submit the paperwork and receive your child's new library card and free gifts! Have your child bring their library card to school on Wednesday!
2) Kindergarten Camping Day
Friday, September 20th ALL DAY! 9:00 - 3:00
We will be spending the day outside with our camping gear, tents and sleeping bags! We will set up a campsite outside on Willowwind's campus near the garden. Here we will enjoy the outdoors and spend the day reading, writing, playing outside under the beautiful fall sky. We are super excited to spend the day experiencing the outdoors. PLEASE BRING A SLEEPING BAG FOR YOUR CHILD TO USE THROUGHOUT THE DAY. Please email me if you have a tent that we could use for the day. Have other supplies that may help us create our "Willowwind Campsite"? Let me know. The more fun gear the better the daytime camping experience!
3) Honey Creek Acres Field Trip
Wednesday, September 25th 10:30 - 2:00
We will be leaving at 10:30pm. We should arrive back to Willowwind around 2:00. We will take a tour of the farm, learn about apples, pumpkins, and honey from an instructor, take a hay ride and pick apples. Check out Honey Creek Acre's website. Please Note: Parent drivers are needed! Please email me if you are available to drive on this field trip. Also Note: On Wednesday, September 25th, please be sure to leave your child's booster seat. All Kindergarteners must use a booster sweet when traveling for Willowwind field trips.
3) RESCHEDULED Kent Park Field Trip
Tuesday, October 1st 9:00 - 2:00
We are excited to take our 3rd annual K-6 field trip to Kent Park, a 1000 acre park, 3 miles west of Tiffin, home to prairies, forests and wetlands. Here we will spend time becoming a unified school wide family. We will also learn more about our yearlong service learning projects and participate in service learning biomes team building events.
Please be sure to remember the following for your child:
• wear layers - It can start cool and get warm. In addition, walking through the tall prairie grasses can get itchy. Long sleeves are helpful in this situation.
• waterproof shoes / boots (our feet get mucky in the watershed)
• 2 snacks, lunch, water bottle
• hat
4) Friendship Park Morning
Wednesday, October 9th 9:00 - 11:00
We will be walking to the park with both Kindergarten classrooms to explore Fall! We will enjoy snack outside, make Fall observations, and spend the morning enjoying the beautiful fall weather. Please be sure your child is wearing comfy walking shoes and has a water bottle.
5) Iowa City Public Library
Wednesday, October 30th 9:30 - 12:15
We will be taking the city bus to the Iowa City Public Library. Students will enjoy a library story time, and we will also check out some books for our class. Have your child bring their library card to school on Wednesday, the 30th!
New Routines: Star of the Week
The start of they year brings another new activity to the Cottontail classroom….STAR OF THE WEEK! Throughout the coming months, each child will get the chance to be the Star of the Week. Save the date, mark your calendar, and take a look at our Star of the Week Calendar (also found on the Welcome page's right sidebar) to see when your child will be featured! This activity is the perfect way for Kindergarten classmates to get to know each other better.
Last week, I took my turn to show students what Star of the Week entails by sharing fun things from my life through my own Star of the Week turn. The students are eager to learn about each day's events and sneak peeks into my life, my family, and my favorites. Next week, Meridith will take her turn continuing to provide your child with examples of Star of the Week activities and details.
The week prior to your child's Star of the Week, your child will take home our Star of the Week bag full of materials to help prepare for their Star of the Week to begin the following Monday. In the week before, activities to prepare include:
• Completing the "All About" Poster
• Filling out "About Me" Slips
• Taking Rufus or Rudy (our class rabbits) on a "week-in-your-child's-life" photo adventure.
• Gathering Special Photos and Memorabilia
• Filling the Estimation Jar
• Finding your child's Favorite Book
The week prior to your child's Star of the Week, I will send home a DETAILED parent letter in the Star of the Week bag and via email. I have linked the blank letter template in the previous sentence and on the Welcome page's right sidebar. Please take a look at it now to help your family plan for the tasks that lay ahead. I have also included a Timeline of Events (also found on the Welcome Page) that show you what components your child will be presenting each day of their week.
Below is a quick photo journey through my own Star of the Week preparation.
My Star of the Week Display
On the countertop I displayed some of my special memorabilia including my favorite book, my favorite game, a class photo, Rufus, my Star of the Week crown ;).
Left to right on the bulletin board you will see:
• my "About Me" Slips
• my special photos - My special photos include my wedding day, my niece & nephew, a childhood photo, my sister and me, and Brian and me at the beach - my favorite place.
• my "All About" poster - I colored my poster, wrote some words, included pictures of my family, my favorite food, my pet, and me. Your child may include photos and/or draw in pictures.
• my construction paper poster with Rufus's adventures from home - I have uploaded examples of Rufus's Adventures in a photo album under the website's photo tab to further detail the photos I took last week of Rufus at my home. Below are a few pictures, but click on the photo album linked above for more ideas. My photos include: going out to eat, running errands, playing with my dog, checking email, reading a book, crocheting, updating the website. In addition to my own examples I tried to create some examples that showcase activities your child may do during the week like helping with the dishes, brushing teeth, and picking out clothes to wear.
Some Rufus Examples:
Check out Rufus's Photo Album (linked above) for more photo examples.
Running Errands
Reading a Book
Brushing Teeth
Doing Dishes
AS ALWAYS, please email me with questions or concerns. I am happy to help. Remember to have fun! Your child is super excited! What a fun adventure it'll be, and what a fun way to further build our beautiful classroom community and strong friendships. Thank you for your helping in making this experience memorable.
Last week, I took my turn to show students what Star of the Week entails by sharing fun things from my life through my own Star of the Week turn. The students are eager to learn about each day's events and sneak peeks into my life, my family, and my favorites. Next week, Meridith will take her turn continuing to provide your child with examples of Star of the Week activities and details.
The week prior to your child's Star of the Week, your child will take home our Star of the Week bag full of materials to help prepare for their Star of the Week to begin the following Monday. In the week before, activities to prepare include:
• Completing the "All About" Poster
• Filling out "About Me" Slips
• Taking Rufus or Rudy (our class rabbits) on a "week-in-your-child's-life" photo adventure.
• Gathering Special Photos and Memorabilia
• Filling the Estimation Jar
• Finding your child's Favorite Book
The week prior to your child's Star of the Week, I will send home a DETAILED parent letter in the Star of the Week bag and via email. I have linked the blank letter template in the previous sentence and on the Welcome page's right sidebar. Please take a look at it now to help your family plan for the tasks that lay ahead. I have also included a Timeline of Events (also found on the Welcome Page) that show you what components your child will be presenting each day of their week.
Below is a quick photo journey through my own Star of the Week preparation.
My Star of the Week Display
On the countertop I displayed some of my special memorabilia including my favorite book, my favorite game, a class photo, Rufus, my Star of the Week crown ;).
Left to right on the bulletin board you will see:
• my "About Me" Slips
• my special photos - My special photos include my wedding day, my niece & nephew, a childhood photo, my sister and me, and Brian and me at the beach - my favorite place.
• my "All About" poster - I colored my poster, wrote some words, included pictures of my family, my favorite food, my pet, and me. Your child may include photos and/or draw in pictures.
• my construction paper poster with Rufus's adventures from home - I have uploaded examples of Rufus's Adventures in a photo album under the website's photo tab to further detail the photos I took last week of Rufus at my home. Below are a few pictures, but click on the photo album linked above for more ideas. My photos include: going out to eat, running errands, playing with my dog, checking email, reading a book, crocheting, updating the website. In addition to my own examples I tried to create some examples that showcase activities your child may do during the week like helping with the dishes, brushing teeth, and picking out clothes to wear.
Some Rufus Examples:
Check out Rufus's Photo Album (linked above) for more photo examples.
Running Errands
Reading a Book
Brushing Teeth
Doing Dishes
AS ALWAYS, please email me with questions or concerns. I am happy to help. Remember to have fun! Your child is super excited! What a fun adventure it'll be, and what a fun way to further build our beautiful classroom community and strong friendships. Thank you for your helping in making this experience memorable.
Monday, September 9, 2013
Website Updated
In preparation for tonight's Curriculum Night (Tuesday, September 10th from 6:00 - 7:00) I have made some significant updates to our website. Please take a look, but also note that we will be discussing many of these updates tonight as well. Also, don't forget! Bring your spending money if you wish to order WW apparel. Tonight is the deadline, so act now before it is too late!
~ Curriculum Tab - Here you will find all the essential information regarding your child's journey through their Kindergarten year. This tab also includes a quick "go-to road" map that outlines each month's activities. There is also a sub tab that defines our curricular goals and highlights our daily schedule.
~ September 2013 Photo Album - Please note that this album will grow as we continue to document our fun activities through the month. Like a picture you see? Just click on it and you can download it straight to your desktop! In addition, take a look at the cute banner images at the top of each of our website pages! They now future great photos of your child and their classmates enjoying the first view weeks of school!
~ Websites Tab - Many of the links in our website tab had been disabled. This glitch is now fix. In addition, this tab features websites that provide more information about our curricular programs and their goals. Looking for fun and educational computer activities for your child? Take a look at the website tab where you will find a link to a variety of hands-on, age-appropriate websites.
~ Cottontails Tab - I have updated our Cottontails tab. This tab provides fun information relating to our class name! Take a look at the enjoyable list your child's brainstormed - "It is great to be a Cottontail Rabbit because…". It is fun to see their responses to what makes our classroom so great. Along with our painted cottontail rabbits, this brainstorm list is also hanging up outside our classroom door. Take a look!
~ Cottontail Handbook - Linked you will find a lengthy document that outlines ALL areas of your child's experience in the Cottontail classroom. This handbook documents MANY classroom AND school wide routines. It is important that you take time to read through to better understand our Willowwind program big and small. Grab a warm cup of coffee and take time pursuing the pages. I have also linked it on the Welcome page's right side bar for easy and quick access. Please let me know if you have any questions. Below is a list of "top 10 topics" to review. We may further review these topics and more at Tuesday, September 10th's Curriculum Night.
Top 10 Handbook Topics:
1. Attendance - page 4
2. Birthdays - page 8
3. Book Bags - page 8
4. Communication - page 9
5. Cottontail Communicator - page 10
6. Health - page 16
7. Lunch Routine - page 19
8. Pick Up - page 23
9. School Cancellations - page 25
10. Snacks - page 25
~ Curriculum Tab - Here you will find all the essential information regarding your child's journey through their Kindergarten year. This tab also includes a quick "go-to road" map that outlines each month's activities. There is also a sub tab that defines our curricular goals and highlights our daily schedule.
~ September 2013 Photo Album - Please note that this album will grow as we continue to document our fun activities through the month. Like a picture you see? Just click on it and you can download it straight to your desktop! In addition, take a look at the cute banner images at the top of each of our website pages! They now future great photos of your child and their classmates enjoying the first view weeks of school!
~ Websites Tab - Many of the links in our website tab had been disabled. This glitch is now fix. In addition, this tab features websites that provide more information about our curricular programs and their goals. Looking for fun and educational computer activities for your child? Take a look at the website tab where you will find a link to a variety of hands-on, age-appropriate websites.
~ Cottontails Tab - I have updated our Cottontails tab. This tab provides fun information relating to our class name! Take a look at the enjoyable list your child's brainstormed - "It is great to be a Cottontail Rabbit because…". It is fun to see their responses to what makes our classroom so great. Along with our painted cottontail rabbits, this brainstorm list is also hanging up outside our classroom door. Take a look!
~ Cottontail Handbook - Linked you will find a lengthy document that outlines ALL areas of your child's experience in the Cottontail classroom. This handbook documents MANY classroom AND school wide routines. It is important that you take time to read through to better understand our Willowwind program big and small. Grab a warm cup of coffee and take time pursuing the pages. I have also linked it on the Welcome page's right side bar for easy and quick access. Please let me know if you have any questions. Below is a list of "top 10 topics" to review. We may further review these topics and more at Tuesday, September 10th's Curriculum Night.
Top 10 Handbook Topics:
1. Attendance - page 4
2. Birthdays - page 8
3. Book Bags - page 8
4. Communication - page 9
5. Cottontail Communicator - page 10
6. Health - page 16
7. Lunch Routine - page 19
8. Pick Up - page 23
9. School Cancellations - page 25
10. Snacks - page 25
New Routines: Bucket Fillers
One of our favorite books so far this year has been Have You Filled a Bucket Today?.
It's easy-to-understand concept regarding everyone's need to fill our "invisible buckets" is one that the Cottontails eagerly enjoy. Throughout the week, they have been verbalizing and showing ways to fill each others' bucket. Look for regular "Quiet Observations" blog postings as I highlight a document the sweetness of these actions. Ask your child about acts of kindness and bucket filling. We've all vowed to be bucket fillers NOT bucket dippers.
After reading, we brainstormed actions that would make us Bucket Fillers (yay!) and actions that would hurt others' feelings making us Bucket Fillers (:( ). Take a look at our work below.
We know now that being Bucket Fillers help us become great classmates. Once we truly understood the importance of filling each others' buckets we brainstormed all the things a great classmate is, does, says, and does not. We compiled our information into the quad chart below.
Not only do we work hard to fill our classmates' buckets but we also work hard together to fill our class mascots' buckets! Rufus & Rudy, our class rabbits, our constantly on the look out for Bucket Filler behavior. When they see great working being done they report back to Michelle so that the Cottontails can add a sparkly gem to fill the rabbits' bucket. A bucket full of gems makes for happy rabbits, happy Kindergarteners, and happy teachers. This in turn leads to a class wide reward that may include a special party, an extra recess or Center time, a movie, or many other student generated options. Use Bucket Filler and Bucket Dipper vocabulary at home to help reinforce this behavior in your own Kindergartener. We will keep you posted on our positive progress!
When working hard to be Bucket Fillers problems with friends can sometimes arise. We read Peace Week in Miss Fox's Class and learned a lot about the importance of working problems out with friends. It was nice to see how kind Miss Fox's friends were. In our class, we have "The Four Steps" to help us solve problems with friends. Using "The Four Steps" in Kindergarten will help make every week Peace Week at Willowwind. Try using "The Four Steps" at home with your Kindergartener.
The Four Steps
1. Use an I-Message.
2. Ignore
3. Walk Away
4. Tell a Teacher
5. Have fun and work it out! This step was added by last year's class. Our current Cottontails loved it so much they thought it was best to add it to our "Four Steps".
We love reading all of our books about being a good friend! They have helped us see the importance in being kind to one another.Don't forget! Take a look at our Book Shelf tab for all the great books we read throughout the school year. Is there one book in particular your child really enjoyed? Click on the book and the link will take you to Shelfari where you can connect with Amazon to order your child's new favorite book!
It's easy-to-understand concept regarding everyone's need to fill our "invisible buckets" is one that the Cottontails eagerly enjoy. Throughout the week, they have been verbalizing and showing ways to fill each others' bucket. Look for regular "Quiet Observations" blog postings as I highlight a document the sweetness of these actions. Ask your child about acts of kindness and bucket filling. We've all vowed to be bucket fillers NOT bucket dippers.
After reading, we brainstormed actions that would make us Bucket Fillers (yay!) and actions that would hurt others' feelings making us Bucket Fillers (:( ). Take a look at our work below.
We know now that being Bucket Fillers help us become great classmates. Once we truly understood the importance of filling each others' buckets we brainstormed all the things a great classmate is, does, says, and does not. We compiled our information into the quad chart below.
Not only do we work hard to fill our classmates' buckets but we also work hard together to fill our class mascots' buckets! Rufus & Rudy, our class rabbits, our constantly on the look out for Bucket Filler behavior. When they see great working being done they report back to Michelle so that the Cottontails can add a sparkly gem to fill the rabbits' bucket. A bucket full of gems makes for happy rabbits, happy Kindergarteners, and happy teachers. This in turn leads to a class wide reward that may include a special party, an extra recess or Center time, a movie, or many other student generated options. Use Bucket Filler and Bucket Dipper vocabulary at home to help reinforce this behavior in your own Kindergartener. We will keep you posted on our positive progress!
When working hard to be Bucket Fillers problems with friends can sometimes arise. We read Peace Week in Miss Fox's Class and learned a lot about the importance of working problems out with friends. It was nice to see how kind Miss Fox's friends were. In our class, we have "The Four Steps" to help us solve problems with friends. Using "The Four Steps" in Kindergarten will help make every week Peace Week at Willowwind. Try using "The Four Steps" at home with your Kindergartener.
The Four Steps
1. Use an I-Message.
2. Ignore
3. Walk Away
4. Tell a Teacher
5. Have fun and work it out! This step was added by last year's class. Our current Cottontails loved it so much they thought it was best to add it to our "Four Steps".
We love reading all of our books about being a good friend! They have helped us see the importance in being kind to one another.Don't forget! Take a look at our Book Shelf tab for all the great books we read throughout the school year. Is there one book in particular your child really enjoyed? Click on the book and the link will take you to Shelfari where you can connect with Amazon to order your child's new favorite book!
Website Glitch Found - Test
I am happy to report that we believe we have found the glitch in our classroom websites that caused the most recent Grandparents' Day blog post to be sent out 6 or so times. I apologize for that. :)
These most recent blog postings are full of information (see below), but also act as a test to be sure that our Cottontails' website is up and running to its fullest potential. Additional updates are being made and will be reveal at tomorrow's (9.10) Curriculum Night.
Thanks for your patience and I apologize for any inconveniences or annoyances.
These most recent blog postings are full of information (see below), but also act as a test to be sure that our Cottontails' website is up and running to its fullest potential. Additional updates are being made and will be reveal at tomorrow's (9.10) Curriculum Night.
Thanks for your patience and I apologize for any inconveniences or annoyances.
New Routines: Spelling Sorts
The Cottontails are eager to begin learning more about letter sounds. This week, we begin our weekly spelling routine. Your help is needed in ensuring a successful routine. Beginning Monday, September 9th, your child will be periodically bringing home a spelling "sort". Sorts will go home every other Monday. The Cottontail Communicator (found weekly in your child's Take Home Folder) will detail your child's weekly sort and whether it's a new sort for the week or a continuation from the week prior.
On the Mondays, your child brings home their weekly sort please be sure that they take some time each Monday evening cut out the sort and then write their initials on the back of each sort card. These cut cards should then make their way into the new Spelling Sort bag you will find on the right side of your child's Take Home Folder. Please be sure these sort cards travel back and both to school via the new plastic bag DAILY. Your help with this portion of their weekly home activities is essential in preparing your child in participating in at school spelling activities throughout the week.
I have linked a Weekly Word Study Routine document that outlines our weekly routine at school and a recommended weekly routine for you to follow at home. This document can also be found on the Welcome page's right sidebar. In addition, I will send out personal emails this week that further details your child's spelling stage. Please read this document carefully and let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you in advance for your help in the successful introduction to another new routine.
On the Mondays, your child brings home their weekly sort please be sure that they take some time each Monday evening cut out the sort and then write their initials on the back of each sort card. These cut cards should then make their way into the new Spelling Sort bag you will find on the right side of your child's Take Home Folder. Please be sure these sort cards travel back and both to school via the new plastic bag DAILY. Your help with this portion of their weekly home activities is essential in preparing your child in participating in at school spelling activities throughout the week.
I have linked a Weekly Word Study Routine document that outlines our weekly routine at school and a recommended weekly routine for you to follow at home. This document can also be found on the Welcome page's right sidebar. In addition, I will send out personal emails this week that further details your child's spelling stage. Please read this document carefully and let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you in advance for your help in the successful introduction to another new routine.
Volunteer Opportunity: Room Parents - A Msg from WWFF
Below you will find a message from Willowwind Friends & Family (WWFF) chairperson, parent Gretchen Rice.
Dear Cottontail Parents:
I have asked Ms. Michelle to forward this email to you on behalf of Willowwind Friends and Families. For those of you who may not be familiar with this organization, Willowwind Friends and Families is the Home School Association for Willowwind School. We are currently looking for two parents to act as "room parents" for the Cottontail class. Room Parents function as coordinators for class events, communicate classroom needs to Cottontail parents, and in general provide parental support for Michelle Beninga. Classroom Parents meet once monthly as a group with me, Gretchen Rice, the elementary chairperson for Willowwind Friends and Families. Meetings are brief and to the point, and only one classroom parent from each class need attend. I am asking each of you to consider being a classroom parent. It is a wonderful opportunity to become more involved with your child's education and to support our dedicated teachers.
In addition, each classroom is responsible for one school-wide event each semester. It was felt that this would be less burdensome than asking all parents to volunteer for all events. In this way each class can make a contribution and do their part. The Cottontail class will be providing the Meal for Parent Teacher Conferences on November 14. Sign ups can be done via signupgenius:
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090D48AAAB2CA31-parentteacher
If you wish to sign up to help with other events while on the website dimly click on "find an event" and enter the following information when prompted:
creator email address: Katherinea@willowwind.org
password: Giraffe
If you have any questions about being a room parent or would like to volunteer for this very important position, please do not hesitate to contact me at gretchen.rice@mchsi.com or call me at 319-331-8605.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Gretchen Rice
Dear Cottontail Parents:
I have asked Ms. Michelle to forward this email to you on behalf of Willowwind Friends and Families. For those of you who may not be familiar with this organization, Willowwind Friends and Families is the Home School Association for Willowwind School. We are currently looking for two parents to act as "room parents" for the Cottontail class. Room Parents function as coordinators for class events, communicate classroom needs to Cottontail parents, and in general provide parental support for Michelle Beninga. Classroom Parents meet once monthly as a group with me, Gretchen Rice, the elementary chairperson for Willowwind Friends and Families. Meetings are brief and to the point, and only one classroom parent from each class need attend. I am asking each of you to consider being a classroom parent. It is a wonderful opportunity to become more involved with your child's education and to support our dedicated teachers.
In addition, each classroom is responsible for one school-wide event each semester. It was felt that this would be less burdensome than asking all parents to volunteer for all events. In this way each class can make a contribution and do their part. The Cottontail class will be providing the Meal for Parent Teacher Conferences on November 14. Sign ups can be done via signupgenius:
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090D48AAAB2CA31-parentteacher
If you wish to sign up to help with other events while on the website dimly click on "find an event" and enter the following information when prompted:
creator email address: Katherinea@willowwind.org
password: Giraffe
If you have any questions about being a room parent or would like to volunteer for this very important position, please do not hesitate to contact me at gretchen.rice@mchsi.com or call me at 319-331-8605.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Gretchen Rice
Kent Park Field Trip Postponed
Unfortunately, Mother Nature and her stifling heat have other plans for our Tuesday together. Due to the hot forecast for Tuesday, September 10th the K-6 program has postponed our trip to Kent Park. We will have school according to normal plans and are in the process of coming up with a reschedule date for a trip to Kent Park later in September. I will keep you posted with updates. Thanks for your understanding. Your child's safety in this warm heat is our number one concern.
Curriculum Night - TOMORROW, Tuesday, September 10
Join me for a conversation about your child's curricular adventures for the 2013-2014 school year! "How do I affect the earth and how does the earth affect me?" is the essential question that unites Willowwind's preschool through sixth grade curriculum for the school year. In addition, we will be discussing classroom-specific units of study.
Curriculum Night Timeline:
6:00 - 6:45 Classroom Discussion of Kindergarten Curriculum (in Cottontails' Classroom)
6:45 - 7:00 Refreshments and Open House Visit with Specials Teachers (in GD Space)
Child care will be provided for students three years old and potty-trained and older. Email Amber amberk@willowwind.org if you are interested in the child care option.
Curriculum Night Timeline:
6:00 - 6:45 Classroom Discussion of Kindergarten Curriculum (in Cottontails' Classroom)
6:45 - 7:00 Refreshments and Open House Visit with Specials Teachers (in GD Space)
Child care will be provided for students three years old and potty-trained and older. Email Amber amberk@willowwind.org if you are interested in the child care option.
Volunteer Opportunity: Black & White Book Assembly
We are getting ready to grow our reading brains! I am in need of 2 parent volunteers to help with the assembly of our weekly black & white books. This is a volunteer opportunity that can be done at home and would earn each family about 30 minutes per week. Your help is greatly appreciated with this volunteer opportunity. It doesn't take much time, but its work is a HUGE ASSEST to our reading program. Please, please email me if you are interested!
Thank you in advance for your help.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Grandparents' Day - Sunday, September 8
Grandparents' Day is just around the corner! It takes place this coming Sunday, September 8th. We are excited to tell those grandparents, near and far, how much they mean to us. Today, the Kindergarteners spent the afternoon making cards for our special grandparents. They finished them up and took them home today in their Take Home Folder (take a look on the blue "Left at Home" side). Some Kindergarteners are eager to hand deliver their card to local grandparents and some Kindergarteners are eager to make a special trip to the post office to send their card on its way to those grandparents far away. Either way, please take a moment to touch base with your child providing an opportunity for your child to deliver their card. Enjoy this special moment and Happy Grandparents' Day to all those lucky grandparents!
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