Dear Fifth-Grade Families,

We completed our second botany block following our spring break week. We spent time learning about two helpful pollinators, butterflies and bees. We learned about how they collect nectar, the flowers' gift to these insects, and in return, the butterflies and bees distribute pollen to continue the life cycle of flowering plants. We also learned about oak trees, their life cycle, seed distribution, and the benefits these trees contribute. We did the same for coconut palm trees. As we ended the week learning about bees, we enjoyed a special snack of apples dipped in local honey.

We will begin our second North American geography block, focusing now on the United States, and will work in our Key to Fractions 3 booklets. Also, we are making ourselves ready for the Pentathlon. The students are regularly practicing with Mr. Matan for the five events, working with Ki Ben to learn the songs they will perform, memorizing the oath, and will rewrite final copies of their odes to the gods.

We are now diving more fully into our play practice based on the Greek myth of Demeter and Persephone. We are reading the script together and working through ideas for performing the various scenes. Parts will be announced soon and at-home practice will be required. The play will be the second week of May, the exact date and time will be announced soon!

We are definitely keeping ourselves busy!

Reminders:

Now that the weather is warming, please equip your child with sun hats, insect repellent, and water shoes. Creekcess will begin soon and students may only go in the water if they have hard-soled, closed-toed shoes for the creek.

4/25-4/27 5th Grade Pentathlon

4/28 Annual Fundraiser - Half Day

4/29 Community Work Day

5/5 Half Day

5/13 Community Work Day

5/19 Last Day of School

With gratitude,

Melissa