"Jesus Came to Show Us How To Love God"



We enjoyed Father Dan's visit. He read us a lovely Christmas story. He looks forward to seeing us in church on Christmas Day.



The feast of St. Lucia was celebrated with cinnamon buns and counting in Swedish. We talked about winter activities on the shortest day of the year in Sweden.



There was lots of excitement and sweet smells as our buddies and some parents helped us decorate the Gingerbread Houses. Thanks to all who helped decorate and wrap. This week we'll bake and see if those gingerbread men stay in the oven.



It was fun to return to the classroom after Las Posada and see a pinata waiting to be broken. Everyone received a bag of treats.



We'll have a special Mystery Guest Reader on Tuesday. Don't forget to send in a robe or pj top. We'll enjoy hot chocolate and cookies before a story.



We'll spin the dreidel with our buddies now that we've read about Hanukkah. We'll learn about probability and tally marks when we pick red/green Hershey kisses from a bag.



We'll visit Pre-K and recite a poem to go along with our reindeer shakers.



The Jingle Bell Jog is Monday. All participants have free dress. Pledge money is due in January. Money raised will go to St. Joseph's Hospital's pediatric cancer ward and to a local family in need. Thank you for your support.



  • I hope that you will read during the break for the Read Aloud. Our goal is 1,000 books.


  • Return your child's writing journal with your comments please.


  • Sign and return the Reading Assessment please.


  • Return the clean tee after Christmas. We have lots more messy activities planned.


  • No homework this week.


  • 12:30 dismissal on Thursday. Send a note if your child is going to EDP.


  • Have a joyous and blessed Christmas with family and friends. Remember that "Jesus Is The Reason For The Season."
"O Lord, I Wait For You All Day Long"


Psalm 25:5


It has been wonderful lighting our Advent wreath every morning and sharing the story of Christmas with the children. You must stop by and read their letters to Santa asking for something for Baby Jesus, so sweet and thoughtful. They gave me goosebumps!


I hope your child is coloring in "Hearts of Kindness at Home".


The Jingle Bell Jog is next Monday. All participants have free dress and must wear sneakers. The children jog (not run) laps around the gym. Sponsors donate for each lap they complete. The money raised will go to the Pediatric Cancer Unit at St. Joseph's Hospital and to a local family in need. The K kids are good joggers and usually complete close to twenty laps. I'm hoping for 100% participation. Pledge forms are due this week. Donations are due after Christmas break.


We'll celebrate the Feast of St. Lucia and enjoy cinnamon buns passed out by the oldest girl in the class as is the custom in Sweden.


We'll wear serapes and carry lanterns as we take on the role of holy pilgrims when we have our "Posada". It will be fun to try and break open the pinata.


Our Reading selection is Little Panda, an informational story. Skill: compare/contrast; Phonics: Bb /b/ and Nn /n/ initial and medial consonants; Grammar: verbs; HF Words: me, with, she; -in Word Family: bin, fin, kin, pin, tin, win.


I will give the Unit 2 Reading Assessment this week.


I hope you're reading for the Read Aloud. Our total to date is 741 and our goal is 1,000 for December.


We'll continue to work on plane and solid shapes. Have your child find some around the house.


Homework: Christmas shape activity sheet in your child's folder.


Reminders


*We've collected 34 items for "The Giving Tree" to date. Thank you so much. The children love hanging their donations on the tree.


*Missing: Ten Black Dots by Donald Crews and the class rewrite. Do you have it?


*Gym will be on Tuesday, not Wednesday due to the concert.


*All are expected to attend the concert. Your child should be dressed in "holiday best" and be in the classroom at 6:15. You will pick them up back in the classroom afterwards.


*We could use a few more wrappers for the Gingerbread Houses on Friday at 2:30.


*Please wash your child's tee. We have many more "messy" projects ahead. I will send it home on Friday.


*Think about joining in the Christmas Caroling on Friday. It's lots of fun.


*Wanted: paper towel holders


*Have a good week!




We Pray, "Come Lord Jesus."

We'll talk about the kindness of St. Nicholas as we celebrate his Feast Day. We'll leave slippers out on Tuesday, his feast day, in the hope that he'll leave a small treat for us. Won't the children be surprised to find a lit Christmas tree in the room.

We've been learning about our five senses, gifts from God and the life of Helen Keller. We'll view art prints by Norman Rockwell and see what senses are used in the pictures.

I hope your child is coloring in "Hearts of Kindness" at home. We've been doing it in the classroom as well.

We've collected four items for The IHM Giving Tree. The hats, mittens, gloves, and scarves will be distributed to school children in Paterson.

Fifteen children read 311 books for the November Pizza Hut Read Aloud. This total was a drop from October.

The reading selection is Whose Garden Is It?, a rhyming story. Skill: realism and fantasy; Phonics: Ii short /i/ initial and medial; Grammar: adjectives; HF Words: he, for; -ig Word Family: big, dig, fig, jig, pig, and wig. We'll supplement the story with fiction/non-fiction books about gardening, including Monet in Linnea's Garden.

We'll begin a unit on plane and solid figures. Our buddies will help us determine what objects can stack, slide and roll.

Nineteen children agreed that we'll have snow this month. What do you think?

We'll write in our journals as to why the man in Munch's "The Scream" is screaming his head off. This should be interesting!

Exciting News: I received a $140.00 grant from the Kids in Need Foundation for my proposal "Jump! Thump! Pump!" The money will be used for curriculum materials that teach about nutrition and good health. I also will receive $25.00 worth of art supplies for applying for the grant.

Homework: A letter to Santa. Paper is in your child's folder. Due: Thursday

Congratulations to Richie Graniere and his family on the birth of twin boys: Anthony Charles and Jake Christopher.

Reminders

* Join us at the 9:00 Mass on Thursday, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

* We'll visit the Holiday Boutique on Thursday at 10:45. You can join us. If you're sending in money please put it in an envelope labeled with the amount (cash or check to IHM School) and for whom your child is shopping.

* SeeSaw Book Club order due Friday.

* Please send in the requested Gingerbread House /Dec/Jan. items. We can use a few more helpers to decorate with us or wrap.

* Still looking for a Santa to be our Mystery Reader. Santa's suit will be provided.

* Last call for a Baptism photo.

* Have a good week!

During Advent God's Family Prepares To Celebrate Jesus' Birthday.



We will light the Advent wreath each day and pray, "Come, Lord Jesus". The children will realize that Advent is a special time to prepare for Christmas. Your child will take home a "Hearts of Kindness" sheet. Have him/her color in a heart each time a good deed is done during Advent, eg. help clean up, send someone a card, etc. Return the sheet when complete. We will open a door on our classroom Advent calendar each day and reinforce preparing for Christmas with kindness in the classroom.



I am sending home a lovely letter that the class received for the "Socks for Souls" service project. Your donation really made an impact. Thank you!



The Reading selection is A Bed for the Winter, an informational story. Skill: sequence; Phonics: Ii short /i/; Grammar: Adjectives; Opposites; HF Words: he, for;


-it Word Family: bit, fit, hit, lit, pit, and sit. I cannot stress how important it is that you write these words on index cards and practice and review. Please read over the Family Times booklet that is sent home. Have your child practice reading the booklet that is sent home midweek.



November Pizza Hut Read Alouds should be returned by the end of the week. I am hopeful that we will have 100% participation.



We'll continue to work on writing and grouping numbers. It's fun writing numbers on a classmate's back. We'll use the Smart Board for locating numbers on a number line. We've been counting by 5's and 10's every day. You can practice at home.



It should be interesting to see if the children think that we'll have snow in December. It's been interesting to watch a bag of water evaporate in the classroom.



We'll discuss how different animals prepare for winter, sort, count, and graph gummy bears, a take home treat.


Homework: Have your child write at least two sentences on how to be a good friend. Full name on the back please. Due: Thursday. The lined paper is in your child's folder. Also, a Baptism photo of your child (with or without family).


Reminders


*12:30 Dismissal on Friday - faculty meeting. Your child needs to bring his/her folder, backpack, and a morning snack. Please call the office or send a note if going to EDP.


*A water bottle and hand sanitizer as well as a new folder if needed.


*We'll visit the Holiday Boutique this week. If you are sending in money (cash or check to IHM) for your child to shop, please write the amount and your child's name on the front of an envelope.


* The children enjoyed the Thanksgiving Feast. Thanks to all who lent a hand, especially our class parents, Mrs. Cicci (and Grandma) and Mrs. Knick.
*Have a good week!












"We Thank God For Giving Us Evey Good Thing."

Psalm 135:1


We'll cook corn bread, pumpkin bread, and make butter in preparation for our feast on Wednesday. Our buddies will help us make turkey cookies.
We sampled several corn products and chose our favorite. Ask your child which had the most/least.
High Frequency Words: my - like - the; -an Word Family: can, Dan, fan, man, Nan, pan, ran, tan, and van. Please continue to read for the November Pizza Hut Read Aloud. I'm hoping for 100% . 18 children participated last month. Due: November 30th
We collected 35 jars/boxes of pasta and peanut butter for our food drive. Thank you!
Congratulations to Alexandra (Alex) Ortega and her family on the birth of Dylan.
I am thankful for a group of enthusiastic, eager to learn children and their families!
Happy Thanksgiving!

Reminders
Free Dress on Wednesday - $2.00, sponsored by Grade 2


You are welcome to join us at the Thanksgiving Liturgy on Wednesday at 9 a.m.


Last call for a family photo.


12:30 dismissal Wednesday. Send a note if your child is going to EDP.


No homework this week


"In God, We Are All Brothers And Sisters"



Luke 2:39-40




The children will idenify the Holy Family amd appreciate how family members help one another. They will learn that they are members of God's special family, the Church.




The Reading selection is Bear Snores On, an animal fantasy. Skill: realism and fantasy; Phonics: Cc /k/; Grammar: Adjectives: Sizes and Numbers; HF Words: we, my, like; -am Word Family: ham, jam, Pam, ram, Sam, and Tam. We'll read many books about bears, both real and fantasy.



I hope you're reading for the November Pizza Hut Read Aloud. Eighteen families participated last month. It would be great to have 100%!




We'll explore numbers six through ten and use the Smartboard for many hands on activities.




We're learning a lot about the Pilgrims and the Native Americans. It's interesting to observe and record the growth of corn seeds. We've been sampling a variety of corn products. We'll use the Smartboard to graph our favorite holiday foods. We'll prepare for our feast by dying pasta for our necklaces, making headbands, and using pictures writing to tell stories on our tees. You're welcome to stop by at 11:00 next Wednesday to hear a few holiday poems before the feast.




We'll celebrate Mickey Mouse's birthday. Do you know how old he is?

Our Community Service Project will continue through Friday. We've collected 32 boxes/jars of pasta and peanut butter for the local food pantry. Thank you!

Thank you to Mrs. Last for a wonderful fall photo collage of pictures from our nature walk with our buddies. Be sure to take a look

Homework: Math Sheet - in your child's folder/Family photo please
Reminders
* 12:30 Dismissal Monday/Tuesday
* Library books are due back on Mondays.
* Consider joining us at the Autumn Auction on Saturday.
* Found: school sweater - no name
* Have a good week!
"In Prayer We Talk To God."

1 Samuel 3:2 - 12


The children will learn that prayer includes listening and responding to God. We will set up a prayer box and pray for their intentions daily. They will know the meaning of amen, a prayer word that means "yes".


Our Community Service Project is off to a good start. Nine jars/boxes of peanut butter and pasta have been collected. The children like seeing the numbers increase.


We'll read The Wall, as we remember our Vets. You are welcome to join us at a special assembly after morning prayers on Veterans' Day.


Animal Babies in Grasslands, a concept story, is the reading selection. Skill: main idea; Phonics: Pp initial and final /p/; Grammar: Adjectives: Sizes and Numbers; HF Words: we, my, like; -ap Word Family: cap, gap, lap, map, nap, sap, and tap. You must write these words on cards for review.


Seventeen children participated in the October Pizza Hut Read Aloud with a total of 411 books read. We're hoping for 100% participation this month.


We'll sequence numbers on a number line and continue writing and identifying numbers.


We'll discuss Thanksgiving in preparation for our Feast with the 1st graders. We've planted corn seeds and are recording their growth.


We'll respond to Grant Wood's print "American Gothic" and follow up with journal writing.


Our buddies will help us in a hands on experiment to see what objects can roll.


Homework: Have your child write slowly, carefully, and neatly in pencil: I am thankful for...and complete the sentence. Note pencil grip, letter formation, and end punctuation. The writing paper is in your child's folder. Also, a family photo. Due: Thursday


Reminders

* Fringed white tee shirt due Thursday

* Family turkeys due Thursday

* Conference forms need to be returned. Report cards will be sent home in February.

* SeeSaw Book Order due Friday. You may order online. We receive a free book for every online order from the November catalog. Be sure to use the class code on the form.

*Does anyone have a child's pair of denim overalls I can borrow? (Size 5 or 6)

* Have a good week!



"Saints Are Ordinary People Who Do Extraordinary Things"

You are invited to join us at the All Saints Liturgy at 9:00 on November 1st. There will be "living saints" represented by some IHM students. There will be an All Souls Remembrance in the gym following prayers on Tuesday. Join us if you can. Your child has a fall leaf in his folder. Write the name of a deceased on it for remembrance.


I will read Uncle Willie and the Soup Kitchen in anticipation of our November Community Service Project, which is a pasta and peanut butter collection for the local food pantry.


The Reading selection is Armadillo's Orange, an animal fantasy. Skill: setting; Phonics: Ss /s/; Grammar: Proper Nouns; HF Words: I, am, the, little, to, a, have, and is. Review - at Word Family:bat, cat, fat, hat, mat, pat, and sat and -ad Word Family: bad, dad, had, lad, mad, and sad. Be sure to write them on index cards for practice and review. Be sure to hold onto the Family Times and decodable readers that are sent home weekly.


We enjoyed "Are You Game?" with our buddies. There was a lot of dice rolling and counting as we engaged in a variety of Math games. Thanks to Mrs. Sullivan for lending a hand.


We continue to work on 1:1 number correspondence and numbers 0-5, with emphasis on greater than and less than. Have your child sort and count Halloween candy. What did he/she have more/less of?


Thanks to the variety of colorful fall leaves that you sent in, the children will sort, graph and count. They will do leaf rubbings and a leaf rewrite book based on Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? We'll read them to the first graders.


The children are excited about painting in the style of "Action Jackson Pollock". They'll be introduced to the genius of Leonardo da Vinci in anticipation of Tuesday's Cultural Birthday Bash. You are welcome to be a sponsor if your child's birthday falls in the months of Sept., Oct., Nov., or Dec. ($50.00 donation)


Thank you to Mrs. Alberta for carving our pumpkin!


Homework: favorite animal graph

Reminders

*October Pizza Hut Read Aloud due - hoping for 100% participation

*Family turkeys due Thursday, November 10th

*Veterans' Day stars returned this week if possible

*Signed Reading Assessment and Writing Journals should be returned

*Class fees are due if possible - Class Parties, Autumn Auction, Laughs for Ladies

*Consider coming to the Autumn Auction on Sat., Nov. 19th. You will eat well and enjoy the evening. A table for kindergarten parents can be arranged.

*Your child needs a water bottle everyday

*12:30 dismissal Friday - Send a note or call if your child will go to EDP

*Have a good week!



"God Speaks To Us In Quiet"

Psalm 131:2



We will try to experience inner peace and calm through silence as we pray some simple reflections this week. Hopefully the children will begin to appreciate quiet as they experience quiet prayer.


The reading selection is Life in an Ocean, an informational selection. Skill: compare/contrast; Phonics: Aa short /a/; Grammar: plural nouns; HF Words: have, is; -at Word Family: bat, cat, fat, hat, mat, pat, rat, and sat. Write the words on index cards for practice and review. Be sure to save the Family Times booklets and the decodable reading booklet that is sent home every week.


We'll work on 1:1 number correspondence in math. Vocabulary will include equal, more than, less than, greater, and fewer. There will be many interactive activities on the Smart Board for the children to engage in. The Math Storybook will be sent home for you to review with your child. No need to return it to me.


We'll enjoy "Math Games Day" on Friday with our buddies. We'll use dice, pennies, pattern blocks, and game pieces as we play games to sharpen our number sense. If you'd like to help out in the morning contact me. We can use some extra hands.


We'll learn about living things in an ocean environment. We'll use the globe and a map to locate the oceans in the world.


Thursday is the birthday of the teddy bear. Your child may bring a teddy bear to spend the day in class. If the bears behave we'll invite them back in January for a sleep over.


The 8th grade Class of the Month assembly is on Friday at 2:00. You are welcome to join us. It is Tag Day, free dress, $2.00.


Stop by at the end of the week to see what a wonderful job the children did arranging their "Still Lifes".


Homework: Halloween A - Z maze. It's in your child's folder along with a Veterans' Day Salute sheet


We collected 121 pairs of "Socks for Souls". Thank you so much!


Reminders

*October Read Aloud due by October 31st. I'm hoping for 100% participation.

* The children are allowed to be taken home at lunch time on Halloween to change into their costumes. Everyone should wear their uniform in the morning. For those children not going home, please send in their costume.

*Student Council is having a Halloween raffle. Tickets are 50 cents/3 for $1.00
* It would be most appreciated if you could send in all requested fees - class parties, Autumn Auction, and Laughs for Ladies.

*Consider being a Birthday Bash sponsors for our first Cultural Birthday Bash on Tuesday, November 1st.

*Have a wonderful week.






"God promised to always love everything on earth. The rainbow is a sign of God's love."


I hope you looked at your children's Creation Booklets. They shared them with their buddies. The buddies helped write clues for an animal riddle book as well as draw the animals. We will read the story of Noah's Ark and learn of God's promise to Noah. We'll attend Mass on Tuesday. You are welcome to join us, as you also are in prayer every morning. Weather permitting, we'll take a walk around the lake this week to admire and observe the beauty of God's creation. Our buddies will help us compose a descriptive paragraph.


Our reading selection is Dig, Dig, Digging, a concept book. Skills: classifying and categorizing; Phonics: Tt /t/; Grammar: Nouns; HF Words: I-am-the-little-to-a. Be sure to write them on index cards for review. Review the Family Times booklet that is sent home as well as the decodable reading booklet.


I hope you are reading for the October Pizza Hut Read Aloud. Due: 10/31


In Math we'll work on numbers 0-5 with emphasis on 1:1 correspondence and terms more than, less than, and equal.


We're still discussing community helpers and safety rules. We'll make traffic light cookies.


We'll learn about spiders this week and engage in stories, songs, and craft projects. Would you sit beside a spider?


The SmartBoard has been a wonderful tool. The children are able to actively engage in many hands on lessons in all subject areas. It was worth taking the two courses this summer at Kean University.


"Socks for Souls" is a tremendous success. The children enjoy seeing the pile grow. We've collected 101 pairs to date. Thank you for being so generous! We'll collect through Friday.


Homework: Halloween Survey - in your child's folder. Due: Thursday


Bag A Book: due Thursday if your child has one this week.

Please return class rewrites, the Snack Box, and the Little Red Hen within a few days. Other children are waiting for a turn.


Individual pictures on Thursday. Free dress if you choose. (Most children do wear free dress.) Friday is the class picture. Children must be in complete winter uniform. Winter uniforms start Monday.


Reminders:

*Halloween form

*Sanitizer and a folder every day please.
*Kid Stuff book returned or payment
*IHM Girl Scout Troop is collecting new/gently used Halloween costumes for others

*Consider coming to Trunk or Treat. It's a lot of fun!

*Found: gym sweatshirt, size small, no name

* Have a good week ahead.
"God Made The World"


Genesis 1:1



We begin each morning with a thank you to God for his gifts of Creation. We will continue to hear the story of Genesis and discuss how we can care for God's world.


The reading selection is Julius, an animal fantasy. We'll discuss character and compare Julius to a real pig. Skills include initial Mm /m/, nouns, and HF Words: t and a. Be sure to write these words on index cards for review. Go over the Family Times booklet that is sent home at the beginning of each reading selection and hold onto the practice booklet that is sent home each week as well. We'll begin reading a chapter book Mercy Watson, about the antics of a pig who especially loved buttered toast! It's sure to be a favorite with the children.


I hope that you are reading for the October Pizza Hut Read Aloud. The sheet is due back on the 31st.


We're getting very good at identifying and naming patterns. We'll work on copying and expanding them. Please send in an item for our hall bulletin board display.


The firefighters will bring their truck for a visit and we'll continue to discuss community helpers and their jobs. Have you practiced fire drills at home?


Our Art SmART lesson will be on "Still Life". We'll look at the works of Cezanne's arrangements of fruits and vegetables.


We'll share our rewrite Today Is Monday with the first graders. We learned a lot about food groups as we worked on this booklet.


Our "Socks for Souls" is off to a great start. We've collected 21 pairs so far. Thank you. Of course we've noted all the patterns on them.


Homework: fruit/vegetable graph. It's in your child's folder. Due: Friday


Wanted: old magazines such as Women's Day, Good Housekeeping, etc.


Halloween: You received info via e mail from the office. Please return the form with regard to lunch time plans for your child that day. Costumes are not to be worn to school that morning.


If you plan on sending in a small treat do so no later then the 21st so that our class parents (Mrs. Cicci and Mrs. Knick) can assemble goodie bags for the children.


The first graders are conducting a used coat drive through Thursday. They welcome your donations.


Have a great week!








"God Made the World"

Genesis 1:1-2:3; 6:5-9:17


During the next few weeks the children will learn that God made the world and see His love and goodness in everything. They will become familiar with the story of Noah through song and stories. They will learn to give thanks to God for the gifts of creation and illustrate Creation Booklets. Once the leaves begin to change colors we'll take a walk around the lake with our buddies to observe the beauty of God's world.

We'll talk about St. Francis and his love of all God's creatures great and small. We'll read stories about animals and graph which we'd prefer as a pet. Our buddies will help us write animal riddles.

The reading selection is Miss Bindergarten Goes On A Field Trip, an animal fantasy. Skills include classifying/categorizing; letter recognition Tt - Zz, Initial Sounds in words, High Frequency Words: I - am - the - little. You must write the words on index cards and review them with your child. Spell them, play lotto, use them in sentences. Be sure to review the Family Times pages that are sent home at the start of each Reading selection. Review/Practice the small booklet that comes home as well. I hope that you will support the Pizza Hut Read Aloud that begins this week. Info is in your child's folder.

We'll "read", copy, and extend patterns. There have been many engaging pattern activities on the Smart Board that the children have really enjoyed. Have them find patterns around the house.

We'll learn why we celebrate Columbus Day and make Santa Maria toast.

We learned about evaporation when our fish bowl was refilled. We're noting how long it will take for a plastic bag filled with water to evaporate.

Homework: Activity sheet in your child's folder: upper/lower case writing in pencil, slowly, carefully, and neatly. Note your child's pencil grip. Also, have your child bring something from home that has a pattern (for our bulletin board display) e. g. a napkin, tie, stationery, pencil, etc. Due: Thursday.

Reminders:

SeeSaw Book Club order is due Thursday. (No school Friday). You can order online. Use the class code on the front of the form and we'll receive a coupon for a free book or send in a check made out to Scholastic Book Clubs.

Bag A Books really need to be returned by Thursdays so I can get them ready for the next group of children.

Class Rewrites, the Little Red Hen, and the Snack Box should be returned within two days please. Many children are anxiously waiting their turn.

Call the office or send a note if your child will go to EDP.

Please support our "Socks for Souls". Info is in the October newsletter in your child's folder. We'll record each pair that is brought in.

Your child needs to bring his/her folder and a water bottle to school every day. You need to take out all papers every day.

The school mass is Tuesday, the 18th, not the 11th. You're welcome to join us at 9:00.

Wanted: old magazines (Good Housekeeping, Home Journal, Woman's Day, etc.)

Enjoy the week ahead!










"God tells us in the Bible that he loves us."

Jeremiah 31:3


The children will practice good listening skills and learn to reverence the Bible as God's Word. They'll become familiar with several Bible stories.


The reading selection is Plaidypus Lost, fiction. We'll learn about real platypuses through some non-fiction books and some sites on Discovery Ed. Skills will include sequencing, letter recognition Oo - Ss, sound discrimination, High Frequency Words: I, am, the, and little. Be sure to read the weekly Family Times, write the HF words on index cards, and hold onto the reading booklet that is sent home each week.


In Math we'll sort and classify according to size, shape, and color. We'll use the graphing mat to sort apples, graph what kind of apple we prefer, and whether or not we like apple juice. You'll get a home activity for your child to complete. It does not have to be returned but please be sure that it's done.


We'll read about Johnny Appleseed's journey across America and celerate his birthday. We have lots of apples to share! We'll cook applesauce and compare it to store bought. Stop by at the end of the week to see the children's apple tree paintings.


We'll read Today Is Monday by Eric Carle and write our own version using foods from the food groups for each day of the week. The children are learning the food groups and the importance of eating healthy.



We'll learn about squirrels and play "Squirrels in the Trees". There will be lots of running around in this game.


The children enjoyed graphing the letters in their first names with the guidance of their buddies. Writing the first name with proper letters is stressed every day. Please practice at home, including pencil grip.


Stop by later this week to see their self portraits and narratives on the wall in the hall. They enjoyed viewing Mona Lisa, Mary Cassatt and Van Gogh's portraits on the SmartBoad.


We use the Smartboard every day - for graphing, alphabet review, rhyming words, science, art. The children love the interaction.



Homework: Activity sheet is in your child's folder Due: Thursdsay

Reminders

Label all clothing. Found: a fleece jacket size medium

Call the office or send a note if your child is going to EDP

Bag A Books are due back by Thursday

Class rewrites, the Little Red Hen, and the snack box shouldn't be kept more than two days. Other children are eagerly waiting their turn.

Do not send any toys or electronic games to school.

Last call for film donation. Thank you.

Needed: old white children's socks
Please read e mail every Wednesday from Mrs. Alberta

Enjoy the first full week of fall. Thank you for your support and cooperation.


















"Because Jesus Is God, His Name Is Holy."


Psalm 8:2



This week we'll discuss why names are important and know that God calls us by name. We'll read Chrysanthamum, the story of a little girl who did not like her name. We'll graph the letters in our name and read Tikki Tikki Tembo, about a boy with a VERY LONG name.


Our reading selection is Fix-It Duck, an animal fantasy. We'll learn about setting and review letters Ff - Nn. We'll clap the number of syllables in words and practice High Frequency Words: I - am. Be sure to write them on index cards for review and read the Family Times booklet that is sent home weekly. We've started writing in our journals.


I administered the baseline reading readiness test last week and have sent home your child's results. Look them over and please sign and return.


We'll continue to work on positional concepts: above/below; inside/outside; right/left. We'll do the hokey pokey and see if we can put the right hand in.


We'll discuss tools and how they help us, from simple classroom ones to those used by our custodian, Mr. Gene. He'll be invited in to show us some.


Good citizens have rights and responsibilities and we talked about them. Check out the children's responses on the hall bulletin board later this week.


We've begun discussing the Food Pyramid and healthy eating. Please pack a simple healthy snack and a small bottle of hand sanitizer.


We met our 4th grade buddies this week and look forward to sharing many activities with them.


Our Mystery Guest Reader Program has begun. I hope every child will have someone come in as a reader by the end of the year.


We'll join the student body in prayer this week. You are welcome to join us. Prayers start promptly at 8:25 so please have your child arrive at school on time.


I am very pleased with how well the children are handling learning, praying, playing, and following the classroom routine. It is wonderful to see them learning and growing. Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you for your support and cooperation!


Have a great week!



REMINDERS


Homework is due on Thursdays. This week: write upper/lower case letters and numbers 1-10. The sheet is in your child's folder. Writing in pencil, slowly, carefully, and neatly. Note pencil grip.


Bag A Books are due on Thursday.


Let your child know if you've ordered lunch.


A note or call to the office if your child is going to EDP.


Sweaters, vests, and gym sweats should be labeled.


Please send in an apple by the end of the week. Extras welcome.


Needed: old white children's socks. (great whiteboard erasers)


Thank you to all who sent in film money. Someone sent in money in an envelope without a name. Is it YOU?


A folder every day and hand sanitizer in the lunchbag please.


Please send in the requested supply attached to your Back to School packet.


Be sure to read and download relevant e-mail from Mrs. Alberta every






























"Children Are Examples of True Disciples of Jesus."

Matthew 19: 13-15


This week the children will experience a sense of belonging to the group and know that Jesus loves them and invites them to be close to him. Father Dan will "welcome" the class in church. They'll also be welcomed by their 4th grade buddies who will serve as role models and guide them in many activities this year.


In reading we'll read The Little School Bus, a rhyming story, and learn about story characters. We'll practice identifying, sounding out, and writing Aa, Bb, Cc, Dd, Ee and High Frequency Words: I and am. They'll begin journal writing.


Our centers begin this week as we also begin a unit on apples. (Johnny Appleseed has a birthday this month!) Activities will include making tissue paper apples, matching upper/lower case letters, covering our names with yarn pieces, and using play dough to form letters and numbers.


The children will be introduced to the graphing mat and more classroom materials. They've already done a great job cutting. Now it's time to glue!


We'll work on positional concepts in Math: inside/outside, above/below, over/under. It'll be fun using toy dinos, bears, and farm animals.


Gregory the Terrible Eater is a story about a goat who liked healthy food, not garbage, much to his parents' dismay. We'll discuss healthy food and compare our snacks. We'll play a food game on our Smartboard. They love using it! I hope you'll continue to pack healthy morning snacks and hand sanitizer.


Homework: Have your child write his/her first and last name in pencil slowly, carefully, and neatly on the paper in his folder. Note pencil grip and letter formation. Due: Thursday.


Reminder: Back to School Night Monday, September 12th.



Have a wonderful week. We're off to a great start!








"Jesus Loves and Welcomes Children."



Mark 10:13-16






Welcome to kindergarten at IHM School! I look forward to an exciting year with your child. I ask for your cooperation and support.



School starts on Tuesday, September 6th. You may walk your child into the classroom and help him/her get settled. Be sure that your child wears a name tag. There will be 12:30 dismissal on Tuesday and Wednesday. Extended Day Care will be available. Write a note or EDP on the name tag. Send in a snack and drink for your child. Summer uniforms can be worn. There will be a uniform exchange on "Back to School Night", September 12th.



Thursday and Friday are full days - 3:00 dismissal, so please pack a snack and lunch. Let me know if your child will attend EDP after school.



It would be great if you could send in all requested school supplies, forms and fees. Check the school website for a complete list. It is of the utmost importance that you return the emergency card asap.



Our first days will be spent getting to know each other, becoming familiar with classroom materials, and establishing routines.



Be sure to send your child to school every day with a lunch bag , backpack, and folder. I will send a folder home on the first day. Return all correspondence to the office or to me in the folder. Be sure to label all envelopes and clothing.



You are invited to join us in our opening school Liturgy on Friday at 9:00. Father Dan will celebrate the Mass.












Jesus made a promise


a promise that is true


He is with us always


with me and you and you.




It has been a wonderful year working with you and your children. They have brought me much joy and learned a lot.


Continue to work on Math and Reading skills during the summer: high frequency workds, word families, addition, subtraction, time and money. Be sure they complete their reading packet.


Visit your local library, the zoo, the beach, an acquarium. Take nature walks, check out the movie "Mr. Popper's Penguins, eat ice pops, have a pillow fight.


Your child has been given the opportunity to grow in God's love this year. Continue to nurture that growth this summer. Attend Mass, say prayers, read Bible stories together.


Have a wonderful summer!


Jesus made a promise -

a promise that is true.

He is with us always -

with me and you and you!


As the year comes to an end I'd like to thank all of you for your support and cooperation this year. So many of you helped in so many different ways. I am most appreciative.


Our Kindergarten Celebration was such a joy! The children were great. Thank you to Mrs. Galan for her generous donation of cupcakes. (myfuntasticcakes@gmail.com)


(We'll work on Jesus Memory Books this week and note some of the things that we learned. We'll also have the chance to sign each other's autograph books.


Monday is our Read Aloud book party. Your child should come dressed as a character from a book. Seven children will receive certificates for participating in the Read Aloud every month. Great job!


Monday is "Moving Up Day". The children will have a short visit in the first grade classroom and those returning to IHM will receive a summer work packet. Our Read Aloud Book Party will follow. I hope that you've sent in the requested item.


Tuesday is a free dress day - no fee


Our closing Liturgy will be on Wednesday, followed by our final assembly. You're welcome to join us. Report cards will be sent home that day.


EDP will be available each day. Send a note if your child will be going.


Your child should come to school with a backpack every day this week please.


If you see "Mr. Popper's Penguins" this summer, be sure to ask your child how it is the same/different from the book version.


I am sending home a complete list of word families and sentences that include all the sight words. Be sure to practice, practice, practice!


Some sites to explore this summer for Math practice:








Jesus made a promise,

A promise that is true.

He is with us always.

Yes, with me and you.


As we begin our last full week of kindergarten we will reread some favorite Bible stories that show Jesus' love and compassion for others.


We'll read stories about all kinds of fathers and make a special Fathers' Day card for dad.


Our reading selection is Old McDonald Had A Workshop, an animal fantasy. We'll discuss character, review short Oo /o/, adjectives, HF words and word families. Have you reviewed, signed, and returned your child's end of unit Reading Assessment?


Letter Day was wonderful. You did a great job dressing the children. We made words, read lots of abc books, added alphabet cereal pieces and got to eat them afterwards.


Our Read Aloud total for the year was 3,1005 books. Thanks to all who participated. A special thank you to those who read every month! Be sure to send in the item for the Read Aloud party. It is on Monday, June 20th. Non-perishable items can be sent ahead of time.


We'll celebrate Flag Day by saluting the flag outside the school. We'll eat "sparklers", pretzels dipped in marshmallow fluff and rainbow sprinkles.


We'll go on an edible dino dig - chocolate pudding, crushed graham crackers, and gummy dinos.


We 're still working on subtraction, not an easy concept for many. Please be sure to review subtraction and addition over the summer.


Our kindergarten "Celebration" is Thursday. I would like to start promptly at 1:30 so please arrive on time. Your child should come to school dressed for this special occasion - no flip flops, crocs, jeans, tee shirts, etc. We'll be sure that they don't spill food during snack/lunchtime. There is school on Friday and the following week. Let me know if your child will not be here any of the last three half days.


*Homework: Summer activity - the paper is in your child's folder. Due: Thursday. (I'd love if I didn't have to send home any reminders on Friday.)

*Friday - 12:30 dismissal. Lunch will be served. If you did not order pizza be sure to send in lunch for your child.

*Let me know if your child will not be in school any days the week of June 20th.

*Can you help wash some of our toys? This can be done at home. Lots of soap and hot water. Thank you!

*Operation Chair Lift: some volunteers to take home a chair and give it a good scrubbing. Again, thank you!

*Reminder: Read Aloud Party on Monday, June 20th. Your child should come dressed as a favorite book character (no uniform).

*Have a great week!
"Joy is a characteristic of the heavenly kingdom"

Romans 14:17


Of all the creatures that God has made, people alone have been endowed with the ability to smile and to laugh. We will talk about the people and things that bring us joy and make us smile and laugh.


Our reading selection is Homes Around the World, an informational story. We'll compare and contrast information, review short Aa /a/ and short Ii /i/, verbs that add -s, HF words, and word families.


I'll give the end of unit Reading Assessment this week and send home your child's results. Please review, sign, and return.


Last call for the May Read Aloud


We'll continue working on subtraction. Please review the concept at home, including vocabulary and math signs: minus, take away, less, equals. There are many fun games that we play on the Smartboard that teach this concept.


Winslow Homer's "Breezing Up" will be the focus of our next Art SmArt lesson. We'll discuss outdoor games and I will share my outdoor play experiences as a child with the class.


Our buddies will help us on our scavenger hunt, searching for items in the classroom.


Homework: Have your child write a thank you note to his/her buddy. Include a greeting (Dear _____,) and a closing (Love, _____). Writing should be done neatly and clearly in pencil . The note should be decorated . Due: Thursday


Tuesday: Tag Day - free dress sponsored by Grade 2 - $2.00


Thursday: Letter People Day - no uniform


Friday: 12:30 Dismissal


Community Service Project: pretzels and crackers for the food pantry


Missing: Two bag a books - Whales and some Birthday Bag books


Needed: All library books returned to Mrs. Frisco



RSVP: Kindergarten Celebration - Thursday, June 16th


Have a good week!


















"Jesus is our source of joy."


John 5:1



The children will identify ways that Jesus brought joy to people and know that God wants them to be joyful.



We'll read This is the Way We Go to School, fiction, and work on drawing conclusions, Yy /y/ and Qq /kw/, verbs, and HF words where and come.



We'll engage in some games to reinforce the concept of subtraction.



How many kindergarten footprints can fit inside one of T-Rex's? Shoes and socks off, toes in paint and we'll take a count! Thank you to those who volunteered to come in and lend a hand - with the feet.



The first grade assembly will allow us to visit foreign lands. It promises to be a great program. Homework: Dino sheet - in your child's folder. Due: Friday



* Wednesday: Field Trip - field day tee, sneakers, hat/visor, disposable labeled brown bag lunch and extra water. You can also send souvenir money in an envelope labeled with your child's name. Your child should come to school regular time.

* Thursday, June 2nd: Wanna Be Day - Your child may come dressed as what they want to be when they grow up, props included. Any parent who'd like to come in and discuss their job is welcome to do so. Contact me first please.

*Friday, June 3rd - Hats On Day! Sponsored by Student Council. Wear a hat, wild or wacky. A $2.00 donation will be given to "Kids Fighting Cancer".

*Friday, June 3rd - Movie Night sponsored by Student Council. Info will follow
*Thursday, June 9th: Letter People Day

*Pretzels and snacks for the local food pantry will be collected through June 17th.

* RSVP: Kindergarten Celebration

*12:30 Dismissal Friday - Please send a note if your child will go to Extended

* Have a good week!








"We celebrate God's love and give thanks at Mass."
Luke 22: 19-20


The children will come to understand that at the celebration of the Eucharist we give thanks to God. They will be reminded of God's many gifts and to offer thanks.


We'll read On the Move, an informational selection. Focus will be on plot, /v/ and /z/, nouns in sentences, and HF words: where and come. I hope that you are reading for the May Read Aloud. Please return the sheet by Tuesday, May 31st.


Our Bag A Book program ends this week. I would love some feedback.


We'll play some paired activity games to reinforce addition concepts before we move on to subtraction.


We'll discuss the meaning of Memorial Day and pay tribute to all those who served.


We'll be going back in time to the land of the dinosaurs. Your child may bring in some things for our "Dino Display". Be sure they're labeled. I could use an extra pair of hands (or more) for help with a project on Thursday, around 2:00. Let me know if you are available.


Homework: What number comes next? Check for it in your child's folder. Due Thurs.


Wednesday: Field Day. Your child will receive his/her tee shirt this week. Be sure it's worn to school. Lunch will be provided for all children. Be sure your child brings a folder and backpack to school.


Thursday: Tag Day, $2.00, free dress.


No school on Friday, May 27th/Monday, May 30th.


Left at the grandparents' breakfast: a cell phone case with the name Eleanor M.


Be sure to stop by the hall and see the wonderful paintings that the children did in the style of Georgia O'Keefe. Also check out their character sketches. Great job!


Have a good week!
















"Jesus sent his Spirit to help us love like him."

Romans 5:5


The children will learn that Jesus gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit and that the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Love. Each time someone is "caught" showing love by a kind word or action in class, he/she puts a star on our "Jesus is the light of the world" star.


We'll read The Little Engine That Could, a classic fantasy. We'll work on plot, Uu short /u/, nouns, and HF Words: what, said, and was.


We'll continue to practice addition by writing out some story problems and playing some games on the Smartboard.


We'll use a Venn diagram to compare Jack and the Beanstalk with Jim and the Beanstalk. We'll plant lima beans and observe their growth.


It was fun to watch our caterpillars build their cocoon and emerge as butterflies. No sooner did we release them when the ants arrived. It should be interesting to watch them build their tunnels. We can learn a lot about teamwork from them.


Thanks to all of you who sent in items for our Grandparents' Breakfast. The children especially enjoyed sharing their writing journals.


Homework: Birthday Survey - in your child's folder. Due: Friday

Spring Concert Tuesday: Drop your child off at the classroom promptly at 6:15, wearing a shade of green. Please pick up your child in the classroom after the concert.

Missing: Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs and the class rewrite. Do you have it?


Have a good week ahead.


"Jesus, the light of the world, calls us to share his light with others."

Matthew 5:14-16


The children will learn that Jesus is "the light of the world" and that light is a symbol of God for us. They will share ways they might let their own light shine.


I hope you had a happy Mothers' Day and loved the gifts from your child.


Our trip to the museum was wonderful. The docents were very impressed, not only with the children's behavior, but with their knowledge about art as well. Great job, kindergartners! Thanks to all who chaperoned.


Sixteen children participated in the April Read Aloud for a total of 261 books read. Total to date is 2,754.


This week we will read Messenger, Messenger, a rhyming story to compare and contrast. Focus will be on Uu short /u/, nouns, and HF words: what, said, and was. We'll brainstorm jobs that help people and jobs that make things for people.


We'll continue to work on addition and illustrate some number sentences.


It's hard not to keep our eyes off the chrysalis as we await their transformation into butterflies.


We're looking forward to our Grandparent/Grandfriends breakfast. Thank you to all who offered to send in something. Have you sent in your RSVP?


Have a wonderful week ahead





*Homework: Have your child think of a character from a book and write at least two sentences about that character, along with an illustration drawn in crayon. Full name on the back. Due: Friday. (There have been many home assignments not completed and I've had to send home too many reminders. Please see that work is done and handed in. Thank you.) Paper is in your child's folder.

*SeeSaw Book Orders - due Friday. Scholastic will donate $1.00 to the Pajama Program's PJ's for Japan effort for every classroom order this month.

*School Supplies for the local food pantry will be collected through Friday.

*Spring Concert - Tuesday, May 17th, 6:30. All are expected to attend.












"Hail Mary, full of grace"

We have set out our May altar and will honor each one of our moms every morning in prayer and song. Did you know that the lily is traditionally associated with Mary?


We're looking forward to the Mothers' Tea on Thursday. If you can't make it you're welcome to send a substitute.


The children did a wonderful job with their reinactment of The Great Kapok Tree. I am very proud of th

This week we'll read Mayday! Mayday! an informational book. We'll study a diagram, discuss cause/effect, Xx /ks/, capitals and question marks, and HF words yellow, blue, green. Please sign and return the Unit Assessment in your child's folder. April Read Alouds are due. I hope you are reading to/with your child regularly.


Homework: Have your child write two questions and answer each question in a complete sentence. Note pencil grip and beginning and end punctuation. Writing should be done slowly, carefully, and neatly. Full name at the top please. The paper is in your child's folder.


In Math we're finishing up capacity and weight and moving on to addition.


We'll enjoy salsa and chips as we celebrate Cinco de Mayo.


We're looking forward to the Birthday Bash. You're welcome to be a sponsor if your child celebrates his/her birthday in May, June, July or August. Thank you to those who already signed up!


On Thursday we'll visit the Mothers' Day Boutique. If your child will be shopping please send the money in a labeled envelope.


Community Service Project: We're collecting school supplies for the clients at the local food pantry to be used in the fall. Items include pencils, crayons, markers, and glue stickes. Thank you!


Warmer weather means thirsty children. Your child needs to have a water bottle.


Be sure to check the school calendar online for upcoming events. They include:


* Summer Uniforms - May 2nd


* Birthday Bash - May

* Mothers' Tea/ Tailgate Party - May 5th


* Museum Trip - May 6th/Free dress pass if Smart form fee is returned


* No school - May 9th


* May 12th - Grandparents/Grandfriends Breakfast


* Spring Concert - May 17th All children are expected to attend. Your child should wear a shade of green.

HAPPY MOTHERS' DAY!















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