Reading and writing on tap at Valley View |
| January 7, 2013 |
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By Principal Paul Pflueger Valley View Elementary At the beginning of a new year, it is exciting to think of the possibilities. My thoughts go to the strengthening of student minds and improved/informed decision making. The life skills made possible through the writing and reading process is huge. I have seen great gains during the first half of the year; I see this continuing. I also see a clean-shaven face in March IF the students keep up their part of the deal. All students will participate in a mid-winter writing assignment in February. This is done to measure student progress and teacher effectiveness. We are not talking about the current style of writing used in tweets and texting (OMG LOL!) We are looking for formal writing, which includes: capital letters, proper spelling, correct sentence structure, and personal voice. These skills come through reading and practice. All students must read every day and every night! When we read, we gather information and expand our vocabulary which, in turn, improves writing and increase options in life. Extra activities that are helping our student obtain these needed skills are guest poets. Today we held a “Poetry Alive” assembly. This group from North Carolina showed us how beautiful our language can be. On January16, Kenn Nesbitt will entertain us with his wit and wisdom. Kenn, author of eight books, has a fun style especially suited to boys and reluctant readers. For more information visit his website: www.poetry4kids.com. There are many events and activities coming soon, as you can see listed below. Beginning today is the school-wide canned food drive. The student council will oversee this community activity, which will conclude with the Martin Luther King, Jr. “Fill the Bus” event January 21. UPCOMING EVENTS 1/7-17 Student Council Canned Food Drive 1/9 PTO Meeting 4:15 1/15 School Board Meeting at VVES 6:00 1/16 Kenn Nesbitt Assemblies 9:00 K-2/10:00 3-5 grades Parents are welcome to attend! 1/17 Collect canned food from classrooms—student council loads the bus 1/21 Martin Luther King, Jr. NO SCHOOL & Fill the Bus 1/22 Wellness Program “Food, Fitness & Fun” 6:00 PM in the Gym. I hope to see you there! 1/24 4th Grade Ski Trip 1/24 End of quarter/end of 1st semester 1/26 Spelling bee 1/29 PTO Math-A-Thon 1/29-30 Conferences I anticipate a GREAT school year—2013! |