Austinville Elementary School
September 29 - October 10 News
Second Grade Visits Burritt on the Mountain
Teaching comparisons of life yesterday and life today was much easier for second grade teachers with a trip to Burritt Museum. Students were able to churn butter, see examples of early homes and their furnishings, and play with toys of yesteryear. A great hands-on visit to life "back-in-the-day."
Foster Grandmothers
The Foster Grandparent Program provides a way for volunteers age 55 and over to stay active by serving children and youth in the community. It's true that volunteering helps you live longer and promotes a positive outlook on life. Austinville has proof of that statement in Foster Grandparent Mrs. Katherine Hames . "Mrs. Kat" as she has been lovingly called has worked as a Foster Grandparent for 11 years at Austinville. She has spent this time working with Mrs. Leah Archer and her pre-k students. Mrs. Katherine loves her four-year-olds. Mrs. Archer says she works especially well with individual students on review activities or small assignments. This lady has so much to share since she brings 91 years of experience to the job. Referring to her role as a foster grandparent, Mrs. Kat says, "I was at home and bored, this program has given me a chance to get out and continue a meaningful life." Austinville is so appreciative of Mrs. Katherine, the time she has spent with the students, and the Foster Grandmother program.
Enjoying a Field Trip
Sharing Hugs!
Special Attention for all Students
ART Club Begins October with a Second Service Project
The caring hearts of Austinville students were led into a second ART service project by teacher, Mrs. Beth Young. Students created fall placemats for the USA Nursing Home and Assisted Living Facility. This project was followed up by a visit with the residents where students decorated the dining hall tables with the fall decorations.
Area Churches Going the Extra Mile in Support of Austinville
For several years, Austinville has been fortunate to have the support of the community's churches. What an excellent role model these members are for the students and a wonderful example of the 7 Habits at work. Austinville plans to highlight all of the community churches and businesses that contribute to the school during the year. As they say, "It takes a village."
This week we are spotlighting Beltline Church of Christ, First Methodist, and Lifepoint Church.
Beltline Church of Christ
The late Mike Nix, former minister and another member, Joan McCullum became two of the first members at Beltline to become active Austinville volunteers. They were present at events when the school needed readers for Special Occasions . A group of Beltline's men also visited each year for Field Day. Even the congregation's Youth Group provided canned drinks for a Family Reading night and has helped spread mulch on the playground at the beginning of the school year. The members of this church have been 'Lunch Buddies' and have served as 'Pretend Grandparents' on special days. The church has donated school supplies and coats for students. What a blessing to have a community of helpers!
First Methodist
These church members started a 'Lunch Buddy' program over eight years ago and continue joining students for a meal and pleasant conversation. This group also works hard to provide food for the Backpack Program. They have provided readers for Special Occasions and baked goods for Fall Festival for many years. This church has also supported the Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) program by sending refreshments for this activity for several years. On Field Day, ladies from this church have the pleasure of handing out ribbons to students. At the end of the school year, this group also provides a delicious brunch for the faculty. This church is involved in many activities. We are so happy to have First Methodist on campus working with teachers and students!
Lifepoint Church
For three years, this congregation has contributed time and volunteers to the beautification of Austinville. They are so determined to help the school that they have even braved rain for several hours to complete their tasks. These great role models teach their own teenagers by bringing them along to learn about putting others first. These members have also assisted by building stations in the Outdoor Classroom. To help students learning about climbing plants, Lifepoint built a teepee-shaped structure on which to plant vines. We are grateful for their service and look forward to them returning each spring.
Mrs. Archer's Pre-K Visits Gullion Farms
A wonderful setting for the place to milk your first cow, ride your first pony, and enjoy your first hayride. This farm allows students the chance to experience fall at its finest. This Pre-K class had a great visit.
Austin High Hosts ART Camp
KIDS’ ART CAMP Fall Break
Monday, October 13 and Tuesday, October 14
8:30am – 2:30 pm each day
Open to Decatur City Schools Elementary and Middle School Students. Sign-in begins at 8:15. Students should bring a sack lunch and wear clothes that can get paint on them! Snack will be provided each day. Please notify staff of any allergies.
Both days: $50.00
One day: $30.00
Mornings only (8:30 – 11:30, lunch not needed): $30.00
Mark Your Calendars!
Oct 8 Fall Pictures
Oct 13-14 Fall Holidays
Oct 23 Report Cards Go Home
Parents Encouraged to Take Survey
Decatur City Schools is in the process of conducting an evaluation of our Title I parental involvement program, and we would like to know what you think. Please take a few minutes to complete this survey. The responses will be used to improve next year’s parental involvement program.