Happy New Year~Happy Winter Wonderland

Dear Families,

I am beginning to understand the whole idea of hibernation after this week of a true dose of winter chill. For the record, I am not a fan of cold, snow, ice or wind (no matter how many times I have been exposed to the movie Frozen). Trying to stay positive, I forced myself to think of 10 things that make me happy that are connected to the cold weather. Here they are: warm pajamas, fleece blankets, a fireplace that is crackling, homemade soup, winter boots, rosy cheeks, Yawgoo Valley, baking cookies, football season and fresh fallen snow that looks like glitter. Please feel free to add to my list, maybe hearing your additions will change my perspective:)

Obviously, we did not go outside for recess this week but if we see temperatures and wind chills that are acceptable, plan on outdoor time next week. This means students should come to school with warm coats, boots, hats, gloves etc.  I am sure we will hear cheers of joy and jubilation when we can finally allow outside recess.

Did any of your Kindergarten children mention the book we read this week together called Tattle Tongue?? This provided a GREAT explanation of the difference between tattling and telling and the rules for Tattling! 1. Be a Danger Ranger 2. Be a Problem Solver 3. Now or Later 4. Mind your own "Bees"wax  If you are interested, ask your Kindergartener about this!

Thank you to the PTA for a great meeting last night. In spite of the frigid temperatures, we had a great turn out and lots of ideas were shared! One promise I made was to mention that the PTA will gladly accept donations for Upcoming PTA Event Raffles! They will be happy to accept items you received over the holidays for gifts that you might not need and would be willing to donate. These could include but are not limited to: Frames, Gift Cards, Accessories, Stationary, Games, Home Decor, Soaps, Candy, Costume Jewelry, etc. etc. etc. Simply send your donations in to Metcalf or Wawaloam and leave for PTA :)

Speaking of donations, we are in the process of sending 18 packages to troops stationed in Spain, Italy, Iraq and Africa thanks to all of you! This was a great community project and we should be very proud of our Wawaloam efforts to think about and help others.


A quick reminder about the Parent Math Workshop scheduled for this coming Tuesday from 6-7:30 PM at METCALF on Alternative Algorithms. Many times we will hear "they do not teach math the way I use to learn" and Mrs. Kilday has a great parent session planned to help you support the instruction that takes place in the classroom at home! She is hoping for a great turn out!

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend- I will be wearing warm pajamas, covered in blankets, eating soup, listening to the crackling fire while routing for the Patriots!

Warmly,
Melissa Marino