Osiyo, River Otter families.
It was wonderful to see so many families attending the lantern walk. It was such a beautiful festival, and the students all did a wonderful job walking the path with their lanterns and singing the lantern songs. This week, the students spent a lot of time working and playing in groups in the forest. One activity that they discovered this week was crushing rocks into dust with larger rocks, and cracking the “pretty” rocks to see the insides with the larger rocks. This is an activity that kindergarten students come to on their own, every year. The older students especially enjoy this activity, as it takes both physical strength, patience, and concentration. It was so much fun to watch them hard at work, and hearing the cries of excitement when rocks were broken or crushed.
In the spirit of giving thanks, and wanting to support our wider community, our school is collecting non-perishable food and personal care items for the Never Alone food pantry in Woodstock. Never Alone’s mission is “To fight hunger in our community through food assistance. We are dedicated to serving all persons regardless of race, creed, citizenship status, or gender identity, with love and dignity as we convey the encouraging message: When you encounter life’s challenges, you are “Never Alone”.” Their list of current most urgently needed items includes Pasta Sauce, Kid Friendly Cereal (no Cheerios), Canned Tuna,Canned Chicken, Soups & Chili, Canned Fruit- any variety, Rice Side Dishes, Potato Dishes, Canned Carrots, Canned Greens (collard, mixed, turnip), Velveeta Mac & Cheese, Meal Starter Kits, Canned Pasta, Ketchup, Mustard, Mayonnaise, Salad Dressing, Bladder Control Pads, Toothpaste, and Toothbrushes. You can also donate financially using this link, if you prefer.
Announcements and Reminders:
This Friday, 11/19, is a half day, 12:15-12:30 dismissal for all students, and no need to pack a lunch. The following week there will be no school for Thanksgiving beak.
This week will have very cold mornings! Please make sure your student is wearing layers and has all of their outerwear (heavy coat, hat, mittens, and insulated boots or multiple pairs of socks. Please also send blankets for rest time.
With the approaching cooler temperatures, students may like to bring a warm beverage in one of their thermoses/water bottles. Herbal tea and honey lemon water are often appreciated during the winter. In following our school food policy, please only send hot cocoa during specified ‘celebration’ days.
Thank you so much for sharing your children with us, and for being part of our community.
Gvyalieliga,
Ki Holly
