A Message from the "Top Dog"

Right out of the chutes, I want to express gratitude and appreciation for all of the folks who’ve volunteered in the school.  You’re making a positive difference.  We’ve completed all of our hearing screenings for the year and, by the time you receive this newsletter, we’ll have completed vision screenings as well. Everywhere I go, I see parents helping out in classrooms and working with students individually and in groups in off-track classrooms and hallways.  Some of you take materials home to cut or otherwise prepare for classroom lessons/activities.  Through your selfless service, all of our students benefit from more individualized attention and your children come to appreciate how much you value their education.  We also appreciate all who’ve made donations to the PTA or supported this year’s fundraiser. 

This year’s PTA Reflections theme is “Wow.”  Entries are due on or before Wednesday, November 19.  Participation in last year’s contest was high and we’re shooting for even greater participation this year.  I challenge each of you to sit down with your child and brainstorm a list of 3-5 things that really amaze him/her.  Then encourage your son/daughter to write a poem or story, draw or paint a picture, take a photo or video, compose a song, or make up a dance based on what amazes him/her most.  Reflections is a great extension/enrichment activity for learners of all levels.

This year’s election is a biggie because it involves state and national races in addition to local ones.  I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again.  The single greatest indicator of whether a child will grow up to be a voting adult is whether or not his/her parents vote(d).  Please take the time in the coming month to talk to your child about why it’s important to vote.  Talk to him/her about who you’re thinking of voting for and why.  We’ll see you when you come to the school to cast your ballot on Tuesday, November 4th! 

We’re celebrating Red Ribbon Week during the month of October.  Tracks C and D participate the week of October 6th and Tracks A and B participate the week of the 20th.  Red Ribbon Week lessons and activities are designed to teach and reinforce the idea that each of our children can grow up to be physically and mentally healthy and strong – free of harmful habits or addictions.  This year’s theme is “Be All You Can Be.”  Details will be provided as the activities draw nearer.  Please encourage your child to participate in activities and theme days.

I enjoyed playing with your children at our Classic Skate Night.  It’s fun to interact with them in a setting other than the school.  For those who missed out, a second Skate Night is scheduled for May 11, 2009.  I’ve already got it blocked out on my calendar.  As always, it’s a bona fide pleasure to rub shoulders with you and your children.

Regards,
Ken Westwood
Principal