Hello Families,

I hope you had a great weekend and enjoyed some fun time out in the snow! It looks like now we are going to get some warmer weather, so ensure your children come to school dressed for whatever the day may bring! Including an extra change of clothes will be helpful in case they get wet. It seems this winter we are being kept on our toes with what winter looks like on a daily basis.   

Last week’s highlights include:

• Literacy studies continued with novel studies for the intermediates and Gr. 2/3’s starting to do some “book talks”. This includes sharing about a book they enjoy and giving a plot summary to their class. The primaries continue on with their literacy blitzes, focusing on key literacy development activities
• The Gr. 2/3 class had a trip to the Touchstone Museum to visit the Elevation Exhibit. It inspired many connections to how our Kootenay mountains impact and influence our own lives here in Nelson. See attached picture for some wonderful art and writing.
• Winter animal studies – This is a great time to study winter animals! K/1 students have been learning all about hibernation, and the Gr. 2/3 students are researching winter animals. They are also learning about the way of life for the Inuit peoples
• Gr. 4/5 students are getting ready for their February push up challenge. Thanks to those of you who have already donated to raise awareness for mental health.
• Jan. 15 was Black Excellence Day. Teachers spent the day continuing their learning on Black excellence, anti-racism, inclusion and diversity.
• Students had age-appropriate discussions about discrimination, diversity and how to bring peace to our community. Thoughtful discussions were had at each grade level and students wrote their peace commitments on a dove. These doves will all be part of a district art installation done by the LVR art students.

A few pieces of information/reminders for you:

1. Lateness  - We are noticing more and more students are coming to school late each day. We understand how challenging, particularly with the snow, it can be to get out of the house each day. However, just a reminder that our bell goes at 8:25 and classes begin after a short time of settling in. If your child is missing part of the morning, they are missing out on important connections and learning activities. 
2. Winter activities start this week! Please check in with your classroom Dojos, notices and emails from your teachers about what is relevant for your child(ren). Ensure your child is dressed for the activity depending on the weather, and pack a good lunch for them. Also, please note that our busses have to leave at their scheduled time, so it is important your child is on time (if they leave in the morning). Please make sure all your permission forms and payment are in. If you need financial assistance, please send me an email.  
3. Enrolment for next year – Yes! We are already starting to plan for next year. If you know you will be moving away and your child will not be at South Nelson next, year, please let me know. This will help us anticipate our numbers and begin to build classes.
4. Kindergarten enrolment – Do you have a kindergarten aged child or know someone who does? Kindergarten enrolment is now open, so please get your registrations in a soon as possible. Spread the word! Again, the earlier we have these registrations in the better, as this helps us plan for next year. You can find registration information at this link: https://southnelson.sd8.bc.ca/registration-transfers

Some upcoming dates (you can also find these posted on our calendar: https://southnelson.sd8.bc.ca/events/calendar)

1. Jan. 24 – Winter activities begin (check with your child’s teacher for more information)
2. Jan. 26 – Gr. 4/5 District Volleyball tournament
3. Feb. 16 – ProD Day – NO SCHOOL

Family learning resources:

January seems to be a long month! Especially with this weather, it may be difficult to find fun and interesting things with your children to keep them busy, active and learning. There are lots of ideas out there for fun winter activities you can do with kids. Here is one such blog with some great ideas for both indoor and outdoor fun!

https://artfulparent.com/winter-activities-for-kids/

Have a great week,

Mrs. Snell