A great start

During the past week, we have perfected our "whole school" morning announcements. Every morning the staff greet the children as they enter the building. Music plays in the background, and everyone gathers together for our "in person" morning announcements and greetings. Afterward, students head to class. I have personally watched the older children look out for our youngest ones, making sure that they safely get to Mrs. Brady's classroom.

Last night, the teachers and I held our first faculty meeting of the year. I asked teachers to share their favorite memory of this past week, and every one of them was eager to share. Here are two stories that I thought you would enjoy:

As you know, this is the second year of Mrs. Ulrichsen's and Mrs. Brady's multiage classes. Both remarked to me that in all of their years of teaching, this was the smoothest opening they have ever had. I asked why. Both of them said that the older students knew the routines, and hit the ground running. The younger students in the class watched the older students and immediately joined in. Both teachers were amazed at how much learning took place right from the start. In fact, Mrs. Brady's older students immediately asked when they would start Writing and Reading Workshops. What a great way to start the year!

The Senior Blended class of 5th and 6th graders has the privilege of eating at the picnic tables outside. One day, while talking to Mrs. Birdsall, the students asked if the tables could be moved. They all wanted to sit together. Mrs. Birdsall and Mr. Tom moved the tables immediately. You can see the happy group in the photo below!