Monday Morsels
October 5, 2015
Fabulous Fall Fun at MJS
Fall is here, and fifth grade students are hitting their stride at school, settling in to their schedules, participating in classes, and being active in advisory. Fifth graders also enjoyed their first author visit of the year with Linda Urban. The annual Golf Tournament is approaching soon. We look forward to celebrating Cornelia Connelly's birthday during Mass. Students are already talking about what they will wear to the Harvest Festival at the end of the month. We are so blessed to have so much fun at MJS. Read this week's action-packed newsletter!
Children's Author Linda Urban Visits MJS!
Fifth graders were treated to their first author visit of the year by Linda Urban, writer of bestselling chapter books such as A Crooked Kind of Perfect; Hound-Dog True; and The Center of Everything. Ms. Urban shared with students her life as a writer that started in her youth, inspiring students to identify what they wish to be passionate about, and how to go about pursuing that dream. She also discussed what went in to crafting her latest book, Milo Speck, Accidental Agent, and how she took classes, consulted author friends, and learned how to write an action-adventure story. Enjoy the photos from an amazing day spent with a creative writer!
Fifth Graders and Their Afternoon with Linda Urban
Service Learning: Middle School Teachers
All middle school teachers stayed after school to brainstorm about Service Learning and how to make meaningful cross-curricular connections in their classrooms. 5th Grade Advisors and Teachers had no trouble getting excited about a variety of potential topics. Stay tuned as Service Learning continues to develop...
Middle School Teachers Brainstorming on Service Ideas
Learning Through Picture Books
During Afternoon Advisory, fifth graders have been reading various picture books that address the themes of hunger, homelessness, and poverty. Being able to share different titles has prompted thoughtful discussion, encouraging students to think about their role in the community and what they can do to help out. Please watch the following short videos where students read Sam and the Lucky Money, a book about a young boy who learns the value of giving to another person.
5G Advisory Reads "Sam and the Lucky Money"
Sam and the Lucky Money, Pt. 1
Sam and the Lucky Money, Pt. 2
Sam and the Lucky Money, Pt. 3
Union Station Visits Fifth Grade
Union Station representatives Gwen and Octavia gave fifth grades an overview of the services they provide not just to those in need in Pasadena, but the entire San Gabriel Valley. Several students asked thoughtful questions that included:
- What are some reasons people become homeless?
- Do you help people who need to go to the doctor?
- Could 5th graders donate food or do anything else to help?
Students have begun their journey as stewards of the community. We look forward to being of service this year.
Lost and Found: Could It Be Yours?
Please let your students know to go through the lost and found box for any missing items. 8B went through the box last week. Items were delivered to teachers when possible, but many unmarked items went unclaimed. Please make sure all student items - binders, composition books, journals, spirals, clothing, lunch bags, etc. - are clearly marked with your student's name.
This Week's News You Need to Know
- Students may wear pink accessories - socks, hair bands and bows, etc. - in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Week on the following days only: October 6-9, 12, and 13
- Please click on https://www.smore.com/25kwy to read about Fall Conferences
- 5th grade ERB testing is October 6-9; please ensure your student is well-rested and on time for these morning tests
Dates to Remember
- October 5: Wholehearted Parenting with Susan Reedy, 8:30, HPAC
- October 6-9: ERB Testing, 8:20-9:50 am
- October 8: Parent Education with Joe Dilley, 6-8 pm, HPAC
- October 15: SHCJ Founders Day Mass, 9-10 am, Gym
- October 15: Concert Dress
- October 21 & 22: No School - K-8 Fall Conferences; Extended Programs open