Dear Parents,

We had an extended vacation and the children were very excited to see their friends when they came back to school. We have been very busy, of course, as we always are in elementary.

You may have seen a petri dish come home containing the spoils of owl pellets. The children explored the bones and other findings under the microscope. We talked about the digestive systems of birds and how they differ from humans. It was a very lively conversation.

We have been exploring verbs and personal pronouns, started some Latin translations, and have been working on an array of mathematics. It is always fun, sometimes loud, and full of discovery.

Caroline Munson attended the Feeling Good Mileage meeting and informed the classroom of this event. Keep a lookout in your mailbox for the registration form. I encourage all students to participate, even if it is walking two laps a day.

We have also been practicing our jump rope skills for the first 15 minutes in the morning: from 8:45 to 9:00. The students love this and really want to be at school on time. Jump rope is a great way to wake up the brain during these cold months. We also do a bit of stretching and core work before we head back into the classroom to plan our day.

Believe it or not, you will soon see camp registration forms in your mailbox! Remember, Upper Elementary students stay for a full week! We all learn so much, eat healthy, organic food, and do a lot of exploration outdoors. Also, be aware that you will soon receive information about the practice Camp Sleep over in March that is held at school.

I hope you are all staying warm during this very harsh winter. Remember, it can take a lot out of small bodies. Your child may crave easily digestible foods. This craving comes from the need to make quick energy and for the body to not work so hard at creating that needed energy.

Take Care, Christine