Good afternoon families of incredible students! I hope this finds all of you healthy and looking forward to Thanksgiving and all that comes with it for each family. I will be headed to Pittsburgh, after school on Tuesday, to spend time with all of my siblings and parents.
Well winter weather is finally here. With this weather a ton of clothing and accessories come and go with your child everyday. If you have a mud room, you know a family of four can fill a space rather quickly with all of their winter attire. Picture a mudroom for 18. It is important to me that your family doesn't have to purchase replacement pieces (glove, hat, a boot, etc.) during the winter. As you can see by the picture, the kids can keep their stuff pretty organized. However, many people can have the same set of black gloves. It is with this in mind that I ask that you write your child's name on everything. This will save you stress and frustration, I promise! Remember, for recess a child needs a hat, gloves/mittens, boots, a coat, and snow pants. Your child also needs something else to wear on their feet besides their boots. Feel free to have your child leave a pair of shoes at school to save the back and forth each day. 
The kids enjoyed the first snow fall while in PE class and at recess. There is always excitement when vacation nears but adding the "energy" of the first snow really puts it over the top for kids. For those of you who have seen Elf with Will Farrell, just watch any scene that he is in with sugar in his hand.
Our science focus has turned to the study of the moon, sun, and light. The students explored all of the different shapes of the Moon that can appear on different nights. They created a My Moon Book, while they observed photos of the Moon taken over the course of four weeks and drew pictures of the Moon's phases in their book. They used these observations to discover patterns in how the Moon’s shape changes and predict when the next full moon will appear.
Next week we will spend some time talking about the celebration of Thanksgiving and look at some of the traditions that are associated with the holiday. This will take place during our writing and reading times next week (Monday and Tuesday). I would love to include some of the traditions that the students do with their families. If you would, please click on this link and add your family's name and a tradition that you do. Try to think of one that is really specific to your family.
NOTES:
*I will not be sending homework bags home until we get back from the break. Just to save you searching the house for it on Sunday evening/Monday morning.
*Please make sure your child has recess attire for winter. If you need anything regarding this, please let me know.
That is all for now. I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving.
Peace,
Mr. Young
