Dear Families,
Here’s an update on what’s happening in Bette’s Class:
This semester we have a student teacher from EMU her name is
Keri Newton. Here is her introduction:
Dear Parents,
My name is Keri and
I am looking forward to quality time in Bette’s classroom during the next few
months of student teaching! I am studying elementary education at EMU with two
minors - math and integrated science. I love nature, animals, and helping
children learn. I enjoy problem-solving as well as supporting causes I feel
passionate about. On the most basic level in any classroom, children need to
feel safe and cared for in order to learn. This requirement is essential for
students to be willing to participate fully, to feel comfortable when they are
challenged or make a mistake, and to show vulnerability in front of their
peers. I hope to be a positive addition to Bette’s classroom and to enhance
your child’s learning. I look forward to meeting you in the coming months. I am
excited to learn from Bette’s wealth of knowledge and from the wonderful staff
in Ann Arbor Open School!
This week is Focus Studies so there are a few temporary schedule
changes.
Winter has finally come. We do go outside, so please help
your child come prepared!
Speaking of winter, we are studying weather. Currently we
are looking at the tools we use to gather weather data. We will be learning
about different types of clouds. Then we will learn about climates. We will
look at climate change with a focus on solutions- so if you come across any
stories about efforts being made to mitigate, send them on.
In math, we are working on fractions: 3rd grade-
equivalent fractions and comparing fractions by finding a common denominator,
using familiar denominators like halves, fourths and eighths, thirds, etc. 4th
grade- finding common denominator, mixed fraction and improper fractions.
That’s not all- but it gives you a glimpse.
We just finished the read aloud of the novel “The Lion, The
Witch and The Wardrobe.” The class loved it. We are watching the BBC version
from Wonderworks, published as a series of episodes in 1988. Lots of kids have
said they already watched the 2005 version.
Girls
on the Run will be starting soon for girls in
grades 3,4 and 5. It's a great program focused on exercise and
healthy living. We were asked if we could spread the word and to let
people know that there are scholarships- GOTR is open to all girls in these
grades. They would love lots of participation and hope that people
can participate without money being an obstacle. reach out to Jamie
Jackson, email jamie@girlsontherunsemi.org or
734-712-5640
Upcoming Field Trips, Special Workshops, Events, and
Assemblies
Wednesday, 2/5:
Global Play Day
Our school has participated for the last three or four
years. The students love it. NO SCREENS - NO STRUCTURE - ALL DAY LONG
Students can spread their toys out around the room or we can
take the kids outside and just PLAY! Check out Peter's Ted Talk: Peter Gray’s TEDx video
Wednesday, 2/5:
Ecology Center Workshop - Time for Waste (So, we are breaking from play
for this hour long workshop). This simulated archeological dig allows
students to compare the nature of waste from Native Americans to present day
and critically examine how waste is related to culture.
2/10: Survival
Swim, Note from Anne:
-Please let parents know their child should bring clothing
to jump in the pool with, and clothing to wear for the day. They will wear a
swimsuit under their jumping in clothes. They should also have a bag big enough
to accommodate wet clothes. The purpose is to teach them the skills
of survival if they ever end up in the water in their clothes. All
will be done within the comfort level of the child. Our purpose is not to scare
them. We've done this several times and kids are usually nervous before, but
love it after. I can also use parent volunteers to get into the water with the
kids.
2/21: UMS Dorrance
Dance Field Trip - https://ums.org/performance/dorrance-dance-2020/ I'm
excited about this field trip. It's tap dancing combined with history and
culture. UMS chaperone tickets are tricky. I'll announce how many we have when
I know for sure. Also, we have a Dorrance Dance pre and post workshop on 2/18 and 3/3! These are held in the
classroom.
3/6 Wild Swan Theater
Field Trip:
Coding to the Moon: Margaret Hamilton and the Apollo
Missions
A gripping drama of the Apollo space missions. This
production celebrates the life and work of mathematician and computer scientist
Margaret Hamilton whose brilliant work as a young scientist broke new ground as
she led the team that navigated the Apollo missions to the moon.
Wednesday, 3/11: Assembly-
Jonathan Rand, Author of American Chillers
Tuesday, 4/21: Rural
Education Days
- Ann Arbor Open has gone on this field trip for the last 20
years. Hands on way to learn about the agriculture economy of our state.
Chaperones welcome!
I have contacted Camp
Talahi. They are available in May.
Possible dates (Wed-Fri.) May 6-8, 13-15, 27-29. Check these
out and let me know if you see any conflicts for your family. Earlier is milder
weather (maybe) fewer bugs, later is warmer weather, nearer the end of school
flurry!
Tuesday, June 9:
Rolling Hills Water Park
I’d better send this before I think of more to say!!
