Clean Water Fundraiser

Clean Water Fundraiser

Good morning, everyone!

We are getting closer to our Missions Team heading off. Students got to participate in an awesome chapel where the Missions Team talked about their trip and their hopes and dreams as they embark on this adventure.

As part of this, we had one of the mission team students, Tristan Ferraro, join our class to encourage us and give us more details on ways our class can help out. The first one is already well underway as students have been bringing stuffies to add to our basket.

The team is also raising money to help bring clean water to the community they are traveling to. We are asking for donations to turn dirty cups of water into clean cups on the bulletin board outside Stuart’s office.  Donations can be made online: Clean Water Project Donations (jotform.com) or at the school office.  Our goal is to raise $6,000 in the month of February. Donations over $20 will get a tax receipt if you fully fill in the donation page that will be coming home today!

Thanks for all your support of this important event!

Lovely Snow Days!

Lovely Snow Days!

I hope you all enjoyed the recent snow days. I know these days can be difficult for families with kids at home but I know the kids enjoyed the few stolen moments they got to be at home. We exchanged lots of stories about our escapades in the snow this morning!

Snow days don’t often come without disruptions in the schedule. As such, here are some notes for this week:

1. Memory Verse: Ephesians 3:16

Our memory verse tomorrow is Ephesians 3:16. Here are some ways this verse is important and relevant to our lives:

  • Inner Strength: Ephesians 3:16 speaks about being strengthened with power through the Holy Spirit. In the midst of academic challenges, social dynamics, and personal growth, this verse reminds us that we can draw strength from a higher source.
  • Confidence in Faith: The verse emphasizes the role of faith in our lives. As students navigating through various experiences, having faith can boost confidence and provide a sense of purpose.
  • Guidance in Decision-making: Ephesians 3:16 encourages us to tap into God’s wisdom. In the complex world of choices and decisions, this verse serves as a compass, guiding us towards choices that align with our values and beliefs.

3. Cozy Casual Event: Wednesday Extravaganza

The previously scheduled cozy casual day meant for last week has been rescheduled for this week. Wear your comfiest, coziest clothes this Wednesday.

4. Chapel Duties: January 24 Chapel List

Attention to the following students who are needed for chapel duties this Wednesday. This is the same list as last week’s missed chapel to make sure students don’t miss the worship opportunity:

  • Tech: Bianca Daniella
  • Stage Manager: Grayson
  • Keys: Mrs. Van Santen Indie
  • Percussion: Ezra
  • Drums: Bentley
  • Electric Guitar: Jun
  • Acoustic Guitar: Adelle
  • Bass: Julie
  • Vocals: Felisha, Esther, Anna
Memory Verses, Cozy Casual, and Chapel Duties

Memory Verses, Cozy Casual, and Chapel Duties

Hello, families!

As we embark on another week of learning and growing together, we have a few exciting reminders and announcements to share with you.

1. Memory Verse Recitation: Ephesians 3:14-15

Tomorrow is the day students will be reciting Ephesians 3:14-15. These verses hold a profound message about God’s love and the strength it provides us. To receive an “Extending” grade, take a moment to ponder and explain how these verses are relevant to your life. Consider the challenges you face and how God’s love and power can guide you through them.

2. Upcoming Memory Verse: Ephesians 3:16

Looking ahead, our next memory verse is Ephesians 3:16. Here are some ways this verse is important and relevant to our lives:

  • Inner Strength: Ephesians 3:16 speaks about being strengthened with power through the Holy Spirit. In the midst of academic challenges, social dynamics, and personal growth, this verse reminds us that we can draw strength from a higher source.
  • Confidence in Faith: The verse emphasizes the role of faith in our lives. As students navigating through various experiences, having faith can boost confidence and provide a sense of purpose.
  • Guidance in Decision-making: Ephesians 3:16 encourages us to tap into God’s wisdom. In the complex world of choices and decisions, this verse serves as a compass, guiding us towards choices that align with our values and beliefs.

3. Cozy Casual Event: Wednesday Extravaganza

This Wednesday is not just any ordinary day—it’s another Cozy Casual event!  Wear your comfiest, coziest clothes.

4. Chapel Duties: January 17 Chapel List

Attention to the following students who are needed for chapel duties this Wednesday:

  • Tech: Bianca Daniella
  • Stage Manager: Grayson
  • Keys: Mrs. Van Santen Indie
  • Percussion: Ezra
  • Drums: Bentley
  • Electric Guitar: Jun
  • Acoustic Guitar: Adelle
  • Bass: Julie
  • Vocals: Felisha, Esther, Anna

Thank you for your commitment to making our chapel experiences meaningful and uplifting!

As we navigate through this week, let’s remember the importance of faith, camaraderie, and focus. Wishing you all a fantastic week ahead!

Frigid Temperatures

Frigid Temperatures

With the cold temperatures out there, I would like to remind everyone to make sure they are dressed appropriately for the weather. Our cold weather policy states that students will go outside until temperatures reach below -10 with windchill. While it was cold outside today, temperatures did not reach below -10 until well after lunch. However, many students were not prepared to be outside.

Temperatures are expected to be even colder tomorrow so it most likely will be an in day. However, students should still be coming to school wearing proper weather gear for the temperatures in case of emergencies, etc. Thanks for your help in this matter.

Welcoming 2024: New Beginnings, Exciting Adventures, and Acts of Kindness

Welcoming 2024: New Beginnings, Exciting Adventures, and Acts of Kindness

Welcome to the brand new year of 2024! We hope this message finds you well-rested, rejuvenated, and ready for the exciting journey that lies ahead. As we step into this new chapter, it’s a time for fresh starts, new goals, building new habits, and discovering new abilities.

Bible Memory Verses: To kick off the year, we have chosen a powerful Bible verse to guide us: Ephesians 3:14-15 (NIV):

“For this reason, I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name.”

This verse speaks largely about the importance of family, unity, and acknowledging the divine connections that bind us together. We encourage students to reflect on how this verse relates to their lives and the relationships they share with their families and friends. By doing so, they not only strengthen their understanding of the scripture but also develop their communication skills. We believe that fostering a deeper connection with spiritual teachings can contribute positively to their personal growth and character development.

This verse will be recited next Tuesday. Just a reminder that to get a 4 – Extended, students will need to state how this verse is relevant to them in their lives. Some suggestions could include:

  1. Family Appreciation:
    • Teach students to appreciate their families as a foundational support system in their lives.
    • Encourage gratitude for the love, care, and guidance provided by their parents and siblings.
    • Discuss the concept that families, both earthly and heavenly, play a crucial role in shaping one’s identity.
  2. Unity and Collaboration:
    • Emphasize the importance of unity within families and classrooms.
    • Teach the value of working collaboratively with classmates, acknowledging that everyone contributes to the overall success of the group.
    • Highlight that just as families come together, a classroom functions best when everyone is united and supportive.
  3. Respect and Humility:
    • Discuss the idea of kneeling before the Father as a symbol of humility and respect.
    • Encourage students to treat each other with kindness and humility, fostering a positive and supportive atmosphere within the classroom.
    • Emphasize that everyone, regardless of differences, deserves respect and understanding.
  4. Conflict Resolution:
    • Teach conflict resolution skills based on the idea of kneeling before the Father, emphasizing the importance of resolving disputes peacefully and respectfully.
    • Help students understand that disagreements are a natural part of life, but how they handle conflicts matters for maintaining unity.
  5. Building a Supportive Community:
    • Discuss the broader sense of “family” that extends beyond blood relations to include friends, classmates, and teachers.
    • Promote the idea that a supportive community is essential for personal and collective growth.
    • Encourage students to be mindful of how their actions impact the well-being of the larger school community.
  6. Identity and Belonging:
    • Explore the concept that every family derives its name from the Father, emphasizing the idea of belonging and identity.
    • Help students recognize their unique roles and contributions within their families and the classroom.
    • Foster a sense of belonging by celebrating individual differences and strengths.
  7. Gratitude Practice:
    • Incorporate gratitude exercises into the classroom routine, where students express thanks for the positive aspects of their lives, including family and community.
    • Foster a positive mindset by regularly acknowledging and appreciating the blessings in their lives.
  8. Encouraging Empathy:
    • Discuss the interconnectedness of families on earth and in heaven, promoting empathy and compassion for others.
    • Encourage students to consider the feelings and experiences of their peers, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding.

By exploring these themes, Grade 5 and 6 students can derive practical lessons and insights from Ephesians 3:14-15 that are relevant to their everyday lives, helping them navigate relationships, build character, and contribute positively to their communities.

December Sock Drive: Thanks to the generosity of our students and their families, we collected an astounding 118 pairs of socks. This accomplishment goes beyond numbers; it reflects the compassion and giving spirit of our Highroad community. I am immensely proud of each student who participated, showcasing the true meaning of kindness and generosity.

Weds Cozy Casual: Looking ahead, mark your calendars for Cozy Casual Day this Wednesday. Your support for Highroad Helps has been incredible, and we’re thrilled to have another opportunity to celebrate the school community. Cozy casual attire includes pajamas, making it a day of relaxed fun for everyone. As a bonus, we already have another cozy casual day scheduled for January 17, offering a double dose of comfort this month.

Kindness Crew: Finally, we’re excited to announce the return of the Kindness Crew, starting again tomorrow. This initiative focuses on promoting kindness, empathy, and inclusivity within our school community. As students engage in various kindness activities, they’ll not only strengthen their interpersonal skills but also contribute to creating a positive and supportive school environment.

Here’s to a fantastic year filled with growth, learning, and acts of kindness. I am so looking forward to working with my amazing students once again. See you tomorrow!!!

Concert Today and Last Week of School

Concert Today and Last Week of School

Good morning!

We are here! Last week of school before Christmas break. I know that this time has probably been a whirlwind of activity for you as it has for me.

A reminder that our Intermediate Concert is today at 1:30 in the gym. Students should have informed you that their dress is Christmas sweaters and/or carollers with scarfs, hats, etc. We are looking forward to a wonderful concert today!

We are still gathering socks for our sock drive! We have had a fantastic response and our bin of socks is getting to be overflowing. However, we don’t want to slow down and we continue to encourage you to spread the word so we can bring in even more socks to help the homeless this season.

Next week is the primary concert on the Thursday. The concert is scheduled to start at 9:30 and will likely end between 10:15 and 10:30. All students will be dismissed at that time to start their Christmas break.

 

Thanks for Socks…. and Other News

Thanks for Socks…. and Other News

You may have heard your child talking about this exciting idea our class is doing!

A couple of weeks ago, we read a current events story about a lady in Nova Scotia who collects socks for the homeless. We learned that the homeless are in desperate need of socks during the winter months as their feet are getting constantly wet. Wet feet are a huge issue for the homeless as it leads to infections, cracked skin and trench foot.

This article really resonated with us as a class and so we decided that we would do a small sock drive to try and get some socks to donate to the local Salvation Army. As an incentive, we used an online program, Canva, to design some thank you stickers to give out to people who donate socks to our class. We are doing our sock drive from now to Dec. 20. Please help your child spread the word to your family and friends to help us do a small thing that could make a big difference.

Here are a couple more things happening this week:

  • Bible Memory Verse: Our bible memory verse this week is Colossians 3:14
    And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
    When considering how this verse might apply to grade 5 and 6 students, you can emphasize the importance of kindness, empathy, and unity in their interactions with peers and others. Here are some ways to apply this verse to students of that age group:
    1. Promoting Kindness: Encourage students to treat their classmates with kindness and compassion. Emphasize the idea that love is like a binding force that holds positive virtues together, such as patience, understanding, and forgiveness.
    2. Unity in Diversity: Discuss the concept of unity and how it doesn’t mean everyone is the same, but rather that people can come together despite their differences. Help students appreciate diversity and understand that love can bridge gaps between individuals with various backgrounds, abilities, and interests.
    3. Resolving Conflicts: Teach students conflict resolution skills based on the principle of love. Encourage them to approach conflicts with a mindset of understanding and forgiveness, fostering unity within their peer groups.
    4. Building Positive Relationships: Discuss the importance of forming positive relationships with classmates. Emphasize the idea that love is a foundational element for strong and lasting friendships, helping to create a positive and supportive school environment.
    5. Encouraging Inclusion: Discuss the significance of including everyone and not leaving anyone out. Encourage students to reach out to those who may be feeling left out or lonely, demonstrating love through inclusion and friendship.
    6. Acts of Kindness: Encourage students to engage in random acts of kindness. Whether it’s helping a friend in need, offering a word of encouragement, or sharing resources, these small acts can contribute to a sense of love and unity within the classroom.
  • Last week of school is Christmas Sweater & Dress Up:  students can dress up in Christmas sweaters, hats and Christmas wear all week.
  • December 15th – Grades 4-12 Christmas Concert @ 1:30 pm
  • December 21st  – Last Day of School, Primary Concert @ 9:30am with dismissal afterwards.
Skating Time Change

Skating Time Change

My apologies!

With the short day, I misread the times for our skating today. We will actually be leaving the school at around 10:00, to start our skating at around 10:30.

Sorry for the change.

Mr. H

Thoughts for the Week

Thoughts for the Week

Dear Grade 5/6 Parents,

I hope this message finds you well and looking forward to the Christmas season fast approaching. There are some exciting updates and events happening in our class that we’d like to share with you.

1. Novel Study: “Holes”

I’m thrilled to announce that we’ll be starting a new novel study, and the chosen book is the timeless classic, “Holes.” This engaging and adventurous tale has captivated readers of all ages, and I am so eager to explore it with your children. Reading will be a collaborative experience, with students and teachers delving into the story together. Alongside our reading sessions, I’ve planned a variety of assignments, some of which will even integrate elements of science!

To enhance the accessibility of the book, we’re providing audio versions of each chapter on our start page. You can access these recordings here:

https://www.protopage.com/mrhancock#Hancock

We encourage you to listen along with your child and perhaps engage in discussions about the story at home. Here is a book trailer to watch:

2. Memory Verse: Colossians 3:13

Our memory verses continues with the memory verse for next week, Colossians 3:13.

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

This verse encourages forgiveness and understanding, virtues that are particularly relevant for our grade 5 and 6 students. We suggest discussing the verse with your child, exploring real-life situations where forgiveness can make a difference, fostering empathy and compassion.

3. Skating Day Reminder: Friday

As the weather cools down, our next skating day is just around the corner—this Friday! We extend our gratitude to all the parents who joined us last time. We’re looking forward to another fun-filled time on the ice. Please ensure your child is dressed appropriately for skating and that they bring their helmets for safety. Please free to also bring some skates and join us!

4. Half Day on Friday

A  reminder that this Friday is a half day for students. Due to our skating event, we may return a little later than usual.

5. Chapel Involvement for Tomorrow

Tomorrow’s chapel promises to be another great one, with the following students taking on key roles:

  • Keys: Grayson
  • Drums: Bentley
  • E guitar: Jun
  • A guitar: Maelle
  • Bass: Julie
  • Vocals: Jack, Bethel, Alyssa, Indiana
  • Tech: Bianca, Daniella
  • Percussion: Ezra
  • Stage Manager: Kael
  • Door Greeter: Audrina, Ethan

Let’s show our support and enthusiasm for our talented students as they contribute to the spiritual and creative atmosphere of our school.

As always, I appreciate your ongoing support and involvement in your child’s education. Here’s to a fantastic week of learning, fun, and growth!

A Week in the Life of Grade 5/6: Wranglin’ Up Fun and Learning

A Week in the Life of Grade 5/6: Wranglin’ Up Fun and Learning

Howdy partners! We hope this message finds you and your young wranglers in fine fettle. We’ve got a lasso full of news to share with you, so saddle up and let’s ride through the exciting events coming up for our cowpokes. (Sorry, I know how cheesy that sounds!)

1. Western Day Roundup: Tomorrow’s Dress Code

Get ready to dust off those cowboy boots and don your best western gear because tomorrow is Western Day at school! Students have the choice to dress in their cowboy and cowgirl finest or stick to their regular school uniforms.

2. Skating Into Thursday: Lace-Up for Ice Time

On Thursday, we hit the ice for some skating fun. Thanks to all the parents who’ve offered to lend a helping hand! Our ice time is from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and we’ll be leaving the school around 10:30 a.m. Don’t forget to bundle up and bring proper skating attire (gloves, helmets, warm coats).

3. Chapel

Tomorrow’s chapel will be a toe-tappin’ affair with the musical talents of our students. Here’s the lineup for the musical roundup:

  • Keys: Indie
  • Bass: Julie
  • E Guitar: Adelle
  • A Guitar: Alyssa
  • Drums: Bentley
  • Vocals: Scarlet, Anna, Sophia, Mrs. Van S
  • Stage Manager: M Collin
  • Tech Support: Cohen, Noah
  • Door Greeter: Ezra Kael

They’ll be playing “My Lighthouse,” “Rest on Us,” and “Waymaker,” all in the key of G. Students should mosey on in by 7:45, and our door greeters will be on duty during regular school hours.

4. Hoedown on Friday: Class Party and Snack Roundup

We have finally earned our next set of class stars to get our next party. Our party will be on Friday! If you’re able, please send in a snack to share with the class. Remember, we’ve got some students with peanut allergies, so no nuts of any kind, please.

5. Bible Memory Verse and Values in Action

Our Bible memory verse for next Tuesday is Colossians 3:12. It goes,

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”

How can this verse be lived out in the boots of a Grade 5/6 student? Perhaps by showing compassion during group projects, kindness on the playground, humility in accepting mistakes, gentleness in words, and patience when facing challenges.

6. Wrangling Words and Numbers: Classroom Updates

In Language Arts, we’re in the midst of our second personal narrative story, focusing on effective endings. Our young authors are sharing their worst day ever. We have also been working on finishing up our Visualization projects which is a Map of Good Memories. There is some lovely work being done and I can’t wait to see the final product.

In math, we’ve been rounding up our look at place value with addition and subtraction. After a break from the tough first unit, we’re gearing up for the multiplication rodeo.

Socials has taken us on a journey exploring discrimination in residential schools. We’ve concluded that section with a project using memory pouches, and our next part of the unit will shine a light on discrimination towards Chinese Canadians.

Y’all, it’s been a rootin’ tootin’ ride in Grade 5/6, and we’re looking forward to more adventures in the days to come. Thanks for being our partners!

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