Well the weather has certainly been frightful. It was a long week with the below zero weather. We had indoor recess and we all needed fresh air by the end of the day. However, considering how much time we spent indoors, the kids worked hard and got along well. Thank you for bringing all the cold weather gear. We had a hard time staying warm just during dismissal.

Have you heard of the mysterious elf that was delivered to our school. Some big guy in a red suit, left it at the office for us. It had a note in it from Santa. The kids named it "Snowflake". He has been a little mischievous. Snowflake has been found in our mini tree, on top of the flag, on top of the projector and who knows where else he will end up. The kids have been writing about Snowflake's adventures.

The students received their "iPad expert certificates". They went through the basics of how to operate the tablet. iPads will become part of our Monday tech time and in January will become part of our literacy centers. So much fun!

We have a couple of weeks until winter break but we will be busy. On the 19th we will be having a "Polar Express" day. Kids are encouraged to wear their pajamas. Please make sure they are recess appropriate. If they want to bring slippers to change into, that is fine. I am looking for a couple parents who would like to bring some healthy snacks for the party. We will also be having hot chocolate with candy canes. Yummy!

On the 20th we will have our annual Holiday music program. There are two sessions: 9:00 and 1:45. This is only a kindergarten through 3rd grade program.

Enjoy the weather warm-up! It will seem tropical after last week.

Remember that next week we have a full day of school on Monday, 12:00 dismissal on Tuesday, and no school on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. I hope you enjoy the time with your family!

In math we have been practicing speed with our equations. Keep up the xtra math! I see your child's report each week. It shows how frequently they practice and what problems are difficult for them. Wow! Some of the kids have already made huge gains!

In reading, we are talking about how our world changes. This week we are focusing on how things move and change. We have learned a lot about the desert. Groups picked a desert animal to research and will be presenting their new found information to the class.

Our Holiday program is scheduled for Friday, December 20th. More info to come.

PTA is sponsoring a December Family Fun Night on the 13th from 6:00-7:00.

Don't forget the spelling test on Friday. We will not have one next week.

I sent a math homework page today.

Enjoy your break!