February 1, 2012 Dear Parents, February is upon us and there’s so many wonderful things going on at Hamilton School. I am so grateful and impressed by the generosity our families show for community service projects the children are involved in. If you look in our lobby, you will see the Teens for Jeans box overflowing, the Oasis box filled to the top and additional filled boxes and bags around it, and the RBARI Sheets for Shelter collection spread over a couple of boxes and bags. I was concerned that we had so many collections going on at once but, once again, Hamilton families show how amazing they are. Thank you for being such great role models for the children. Last week, Dr. Joe Galasso visited our third, fourth, and fifth graders and each grade was involved in a wonderful activity of self-discovery. Their work is on our lobby bulletin board for all to enjoy. Dr. Galasso also provided a parent workshop this past week. Although attendance was low, we had such a wonderful discussion with everyone sharing their stories and Dr. Galasso offering some valuable advice and insight. Report cards can be accessed through Genesis on February 8th. Please make sure you are registered. If you would like a paper copy, please let your child’s teacher know so that one can be sent home that day. A few days ago, I walked into class 1C at lunchtime and I saw a rare sight. The first graders were seated on the floor in a yoga position, eyes closed, and breathing in and out. Soft music was playing in the background. Mrs. Leonard was guiding the children in yoga/stretching through our new program STAR (Super Terrific Activities at Recess). If you are interested in coming in on any day between now and March 31st to do an activity of your choice with your child’s class, please let me know. This is a great way for parents to spend time with their children during recess and it helps us beat those winter blues. The activities take place rain or shine and students have the option of “signing up” for the activities. Some great ones already on the calendar are: arts and crafts, games, and Legos. This is open to all grades, so if you have a talent or just want to have some fun with us, please let me know and I’ll place you on our STAR calendar. Lastly, I want to thank everyone who cooperates with our drop-off/pick-up procedures. Thank you to the H.S.A. for the new signs that remind people what to do. Another important thing to remember, if you are on Harristown Road waiting to get into our driveway, please don’t block our neighbors’ driveways. Wait until you have enough room to clear the driveway before moving up. It isn’t fair to these homeowners trying to get into their driveways. I would really appreciate your cooperation with this. The last thing we want is to be a nuisance to our neighbors. Thank you in advance. Here are the monthly hints for our two main initiatives: Manners and Kindness. Feel free to use these as conversation starters with your children. Manners ‘Minder’: · Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel. · When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.
Little Ways to Encourage Kindness Assign chores. Kids should understand that a certain amount of helping is requested and required "just because": just because they're members of the family, just because they live under the same roof, and just because it's the right thing to do. So show them where the cat food is and how to clear the dinner table and make their beds. And keep a chore chart to track and reward the completion of their tasks. Your kids will feel great pride in doing their share.
Have a wonderful month,
Irene Pierides Principal |