What a great group of learners we have in the Wolves class! We had a wonderful second day together, playing games to strengthen our community, attending our first PE classes with Ms. Susan, and returning to the study of Spanish with Ms. Ximena. In the midst of our fun, we also completed some hard work. We began work on our benchmark math assessments to measure what we know now, so we can see how much we grow throughout the year. We continued our review of grammar basics and read more of Watership Down.
Wolves as Teachers
As our resident experts and leaders, the Wolves taught the rest of the school about Group Discussion today. They worked hard to compile a list that explains the purposes of Group Discussion, as well as a set of guidelines that help the all-school meeting run smoothly and meet its goals. I was so impressed with their poise and leadership as they thoughtfully and carefully explained this long-standing Willowwind tradition to students new to our school. Check out the pictures on Seesaw of the Wolves in action, as well as the teaching notes they created for the Gathering Space.
Routines of the Day: Eating!
Throughout the next two weeks, I will send out information on major routines for the Wolves' classroom. Today's topic: Snack, Lunch, and Treat Routines.
Wolves' Snack Routine:
In 5/6, we have snack time once daily, at approximately 10 AM. Please pack your child a healthy snack for each morning. Students have unlimited access to their water bottles throughout the day.
Willowwind's Pack In / Pack Out Routine:
Like snack, your family is responsible for providing your child a healthy lunch from home each day. For now, Willowwind follows a "Pack In / Pack Out" snack & lunch routine. All items are to be "Packed back In" to your child's lunch bag to go home. Pack In / Pack Out allows families to be aware of their student's food intake throughout the school day. This can, at times, become messy, so please be patient as your family establishes a "Pack In" routine that works for you. Some families provide washable containers with lids or Ziploc bags to store opened containers. As our routine grows and changes from the voice of the students (i.e. reestablishing recycling routines) I will continue to communicate changes with you. Please read the linked Pack In / Pack Out handout for more information.
Please note that our Pack In/Pack Out Routine is currently in the process of changing! There have been changes with our recycling company regarding what - and how - items can be recycled, and we are working to adapt to these changes. At the start of the school year, all waste – recyclable or garbage – will come home. This is a change from last year, and we ask that you please be patient as we re-establish our recycling routine. In the coming weeks, students will be able to dispose of recyclables at Willowwind, too. Students will also be able to use the compost to dispose of earth nutrients such as peels, cores, paper products, etc., in the coming weeks. These routines will be put into place as students work together to establish practices that fit best with Willowwind’s vision and the changes that are occurring with our recycling company's processes. I will communicate changes to this routine as they occur. In the meantime, thank you for your patience and cooperation!
Willowwind's Low Sugar Celebrations:
Believe it or not, we had TWO birthdays in the Wolves' classroom today! This provides us with a great opportunity to discuss our treat routines. Linked here you will find our Low Sugar Celebrations handout. Our treats today consisted of yummy fruit kabobs and banana mini-muffins. The students were very happy with this treat that provided both fun and fuel for a morning of hard learning work. We do have food allergies in the classroom this year, so I strongly recommend contacting me to discuss treat options before your child's birthday. Treats are optional, of course!
I look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow!
Rachel