Hello families!

Welcome to October! It is hard to believe the school year is well underway and the fall season is upon us. We still have some really lovely days ahead of us, though, so we are looking forward to some great outdoor learning experiences coming up. I encourage you to get out there with your family and enjoy as much of it as you can!

Some highlights from last week include:

• Wildsight at Cottonwood Lake -Mrs. Bonikowsky partnered with Wildsight last week at Cottonwood Lake. They did a math activity making equations using natural objects, learned what the word Biodiversity means and did some drawing/writing in outdoor journals. There were activities about ecosystems, games, and some outdoor fun. 

• Primary classes began Literacy Stations. Students rotated through 4 stations (Word Work, Silent Reading, Writing and Teacher Table). These will happen twice a week and provide valuable skill building opportunities.  

• Intermediate students (Gr. 4/5) are learning about government and animal ethics of zoos and aquariums

• Gr. 5/6 students began learning about resources; the difference between renewable and non-renewable, and natural versus human made. This week the students will explore small groups learning stations to answer some of the inquiries that came up through the learning discussions

• Primary literacy is in full swing and students are working on their word lists, spelling and beginning reading skills

A few reminders for you: 

1. Picture Day! –Thursday Oct. 9. See the email that Laura sent out for how to prepare for picture day.
2. Early Dismissal days – Coming up on Oct. 15/16. Teachers will be hosting open houses and/or parent interviews. This is an important part of our cycle for learning updates. Be sure to follow your teacher emails with upcoming information about these days. 

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

1. Oct. 9 – Picture Day
2. Oct. 13 – Thanksgiving holiday – no school
3. Oct. 15/16 – Early dismissal days

Finally, some family learning! 

With Thanksgiving coming up this weekend, perhaps take the opportunity to explore the benefits of gratitude with your family. Regular reflections on gratitude provide so many great benefits for children and adults. 

Check out this post from We are Teachers for a list of some gratitude activities you can do with your family over the weekend.

Have a wonderful long weekend and enjoy this special time with your family. 

Have a wonderful week! 

Mrs. Snell