October 2008 News & Events 

            Our year has gotten off to a great start with many new initiatives and programs for our students. The implementation of the IDEAL (Grades K-3) and LEADS (Gr. 4-5) models of instruction are underway with co-teachers available in every classroom at least 3 times per week to reduce teacher/student ratios and provide greater opportunities for leveled and individualized instruction.  Tools such as the Diagnostic Reading Assessment (DRA2) have given teachers the ability to identify needs and select appropriate reading materials that will challenge all students and help each to progress at his/her own pace. The fact that students remain in the classroom rather than moving to other classrooms for Gifted & Talented, Academic Support, or Special Education services keeps everyone involved and participating in the classroom lessons with appropriate levels of support. Some Homework Helpers are enclosed with this newsletter. 

            We are also enjoying our 6 new preschool classes as they move through the Creative Curriculum, gaining academic and social skills through active guided exploration and play. They will be celebrating their first Fall Harvest Festival this week. Our Special Education students in self-contained classrooms are looking forward to a variety of learning experiences in the community through field trips and classroom visits. Teachers participated in a productive day of professional development opportunities on October 20^th to help them keep abreast of best practices.  

School Violence Awareness & Prevention Week is October 20-24.  Different activities are planned at every grade level to underscore our constant efforts to educate students about this problem and eliminate unacceptable behavior by demonstrating respect for others and for school property. Many thanks to Guidance Counselor Kathy Roberts and DARE Officer McDonald as well as the classroom teachers for their focus on this issue through a variety of projects and lessons.  We appreciate the PTA Assembly program “The Missing Piece” which will be held on Friday.  

Halloween is Friday, October 31^st.  Our annual parade will begin at 1:30 pm, weather permitting.  More information is forthcoming, but as you plan costumes for your children, please bear in mind that they must be safe to walk in (no high-heels or full face masks) and must not depict gore or violence. Due to a number of students with severe food allergies, please avoid sending in treats that contain nuts.  

October Safety This month is designated as Fire Prevention Month and Lead Poisoning Awareness Month.  We practice fire drills at school twice a month so that students will know where to go and not panic in case of a true emergency.  Our local Fire Department recommends regular family fire drills so that children will know several ways to exit and where to meet outside.  While you’re checking your smoke detector batteries, try a home fire drill.  An informational flyer about lead poisoning can be found on the reverse of this newsletter. Of course, Halloween safety is paramount as daylight grows shorter and children move through the neighborhoods. A few reminders about checking candy and “stranger danger” are appropriate at this time of year.  

November Closings A reminder that schools will be closed November 4^th (Election Day), 6th & 7^th (Teacher Convention), and 11^th (Veteran’s Day).

Linda S. Chadwick

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