And We're Back

Thank you all so much for your support in getting our kids to Outdoor School. We had such an amazing time! Working through all the paperwork and notifications was definitely a process and you were nothing but helpful. I know we were a little late getting back to school (the final ceremony speech was a bit long winded), but I really appreciate your patience and gathering the luggage prior to our arrival.

All around, I am so pleased with the outcome of this experience. If you have any suggestions to help with next year's group, please do not hesitate to send me an email. I want to make sure we have the community's support in continuing this program.

Pajama and Movie Day

Tomorrow the sixth grade teachers are hosting a pajama/movie day. Students can wear their pajama and bring ONE fuzzy item. Then, in the afternoon we will being watching, The Lorax. Being that we have had such a busy week, it will be nice to relax with our students.

All Things Outdoor School

Outdoor School Updates

Outdoor School is now just a week away. Below is a list of last minute details and requests before we head out. If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know! 

1. I'm sending home the FINAL form this afternoon. Please complete and return by Friday. It is essential I know how students will be getting home on Wednesday, March 25th. 

 2. Volunteers are needed for supply drop-off and return. On Monday morning, from 8:30-8:45, we would love extra help labeling and loading our moving van of luggage. On Wednesday, March 25th, we need a few parents to help unload and sort the students' luggage. The van should arrive back to the school by 12:30. If you are available to help at either time, please let me know.

3. A few permission slips have still not been completed. They were printed on bright orange paper. Please be sure to get these returned as soon as possible. 

Report Cards 

Report cards are being sent home with your students this afternoon. Please let me know if you do not receive a copy. Please also note that the report cards are available on ParentVue. Have a great week!

Updates Galore!

State Testing

Yesterday we began state language arts testing. I am confident our students are ready and will do a great job. On the home front, it would be wonderful if you could work to ensure your student is getting a good night's sleep, a healthy breakfast and lunch (we test after lunch), and is at school during the afternoon through the next few weeks.

Outdoor School

On Tuesday morning, the students and I read through some important Outdoor School update information, which was also sent home. There was an attached permission slip. Please be sure to have this completed and returned to the school as soon as possible. We will probably have a few more pieces of paperwork between now and Monday, April 23rd. Be sure to check with your student for any updates.

Students have also been asking questions about the supply list. I have included a copy here, as well as a link to the Outdoor School website. Do not hesitate to send me any questions, but also know the website is an excellent source of information.

Writing Homework

Please be aware I will be continuing writing homework this spring. Because of the unusual schedules of the last few weeks, I have not been sending home assignments on Fridays. However, I will be sending home another persuasive piece this week, due next Thursday morning. We also have a writing task due this morning. Please let me know if you have any concerns surrounding homework.

The Boat

Finally, the Red, White, and Blue Crew has been relaunched. Our project coordinator, Nate, was able to fly up to Sitka over spring break, helped attach our new sale and get a new coat of paint on the boat, and headed out to sea for the relaunch. Check out the cool video below.

Relaunch of the S/V Red, White, & Blue Crew in Sitka, Alaska from Columbia River Maritime Museum on Vimeo.

In addition, the Oregonian picked the story of our little vessel. Here's the link to that piece:

It's Just Around the Corner

With spring break (and human growth and reproduction) behind us, we are now closing in on the end of the year! I cannot believe how quickly time has passed. This is such a great group of kids, I really don't want to the school year to end. Before I get all weepy for summer, we have a busy spring before us. Please read on for some important announcements.

Report Cards & Conferences

I will be completing report cards this Friday, April 6th. This means no school for students. The following Friday, April 13, is also a no school day. We will be holding spring conferences. These are a teacher/parent request style conference. I have a few parents I will be contacting directly to set up meeting times. If you do not hear from me by week's end, and have concerns you would like to discuss, please let me know and I will add you to the schedule. I am available both in-person and by phone.

This report card will reflect your child's progress in the second trimester. Most students are doing very well, and have shown significant amounts of growth from the beginning of the year. Please remember, I score based on the end-of-the-year benchmark. If your student is still struggling to earn a 'Meets' score in any particular area, they may still be able to get there by year's end. I will include suggestions for helping our learners reach these goals in the comments section of the report card. 

Outdoor School

Thank you so much for returning your student's ODS medical forms. These are heading off to the site-supervisor by the end of the week. If you would like to order any Outdoor School apparel, I need the forms ASAP. Tomorrow if possible. The order forms were included in your packet of information.

On Monday, I will also be sending home a detailed letter with information about drop-off and pick-up times for ODS. In addition, if you are starting to realize you may need supplies, please do not hesitate to send the supply request form to school with your child. 

Here's to a lovely spring!
Ms. Kinsman