Osiyo, Chickadee Families,
Thank you to everyone who came out for our Community Workday and All School Meeting last weekend! It is always wonderful to work and meet together as a community.
Last week, the students enjoyed an abundance of outdoor time, with sun and seasonal temperatures. On Tuesday, we visited the farm. Students had the opportunity to brush the goats, which was enjoyed equally by the children and the goats. Marshmallow, the white goat, especially enjoyed being petted and brushed. The students asked about what goats eat, how they play, and why they rub their sides on the fence. They also noted that baby goats are called kids, just like they are! In the forest classroom, the children enjoyed watching and inquiring about the different birds visiting our new suet feeder. The students spent much time digging and moving dirt with dump trucks and a wheelbarrow. They made nests, roads, and mud kitchen feasts to share.
This week, students will continue working on pom pom making. They will also explore a new color combination in their painting adventure with Tippy the Paintbrush. The children will start some seeds indoors after the midwinter break; this week, they will begin discussing what types of seeds they want to grow. Caring for the seeds and ensuring they have enough sun and the right amount of water will create the opportunity for more helper jobs and build empathy and wonder in the students. Additionally, the children will experience the growing process from seed to flower, herb, and vegetable. The herbs and vegetables will be added to our soup later in the school year.
Announcements and Reminders:
Please adhere to the drop-off window of 8:25-8:45 am. If you arrive after 8:45, even if there are people at the picnic tables, please park and call the front office. You may wait with your child at the picnic tables until a kindergarten teacher is available to bring them to class after the morning circle. This will help us provide the necessary predictable rhythm for the well-being of our classes.
Please also adhere to the pick-up windows of 12:15-12:30 for half-day students and 3:10-3:20 (2:15-2:30 on Thursdays).
Conferences are THIS WEEK! It will be wonderful to meet with each of you. If you have not signed up for a time or need to change your time, you can do so here.
Please continue to send insulated, waterproof boots, coats, rain or snow pants, hats, and gloves to school every day.
As has been our tradition at The Garden School, instead of sending cards from home on Valentine's Day, please save all card and gift exchanges for off-campus playdates.
Upcoming Events:
2/8 Half Day - Parent Conferences
2/9 No School - Parent Conferences
2/19-2/23- Mid-Winter Break (No School)
2/26- Teacher Inservice (No School)
Thank you for sharing your children with us and for being part of our community.
Gvyalieliga,
Ki Holly
