The Anderson Update

News from Winter 2021-2022

Big picture

Masks Optional Starting March 1, 2022

New Year New Us?

It’s 2022; time for resolutions, the second semester, and a healthy dose of senioritis. It is around this time where teachers and students begin making goals for the second half of the year and looking forward to spring break. Tis the season for advice columns on how to stick to your New Year’s resolutions and teachers asking for your third quarter goals. 82% of Anderson students' polled said that they do not make resolutions each year. Of the 17% of students who do, their resolutions included "being the best version of myself", "getting my driver's license", and making healthier choices.


On a larger scale, Anderson staff has put into place a new bingo system in which each homeroom comes up with a weekly, overall goal. These goals vary amongst each homeroom and concentrate on areas of need whether collective attendance or points on the ABLE sheets. If homerooms make their goal each week they choose a bingo number. Five numbers in a row gets the entire student body a schoolwide reward.


While the vast majority of students do not make resolutions, it is important to point out that many have come so far in their journey as a student here. Homerooms discuss their journeys often, recognizing the growth that is made each school year. Our students have been making such positive strides as they transition from one program to the next, from one homeroom to another, with each new quarter and new opportunity to make honor roll, with every weekly shout out and student of the month; maybe we're achieving the resolutions we never officially spoke aloud.

The Literary Arts

A Toast to the New Year

Students were asked to "toast" to the New Year or to someone special. Here are some of the highlights.


Hi, my name is CJ and the person I am toasting to is my mom. She is thoughtful, generous, and helpful in most situations. I am thankful that I have a roof over my head and food on the table and it's all because of my mom.I can't wait to become an adult and be able to take care of myself and my loved ones like she takes care of us. I owe her so much! I'm so lucky to have her as a parent and she deserves everything in the world!

-CJ


I choose to not let everything get me down, because even when I feel alone, I know that there are some people in this world who love me unconditionally, and there is always something to look forward to.

-Ayden


On March 28, 2022 my Pop Pop will be turning 60. I would like to have family and friends get together at a local fire hall to celebrate my Pop Pop and toast to a new year with positive thoughts and enjoying every day no matter how tough some days might be.

-Kaiden

"The Stars Beneath Our Feet"

The middle school is currently reading a book recommended by our principal, Mrs. Raber. Focusing on life after loss for a middle school student, this novel provides a realistic view into many of the issues students face in our current society. Overall, the class is reporting that they are really enjoying the read and have these great things to say about it: “ It’s really interesting”, “ I like the story because it is about love and it’s kind of realistic”, and “ you can really feel like you are a part of it.” 7th and 8th grades seem to be enjoying this story.


"The Stars Beneath Our Feet" book trailer 360p 1

Holiday Happenings

The Holidays were celebrated with a spirit week, pancake breakfast, hot chocolate cart, and epic hallway decorating contest. Student council organized the contest where four groups of students worked collaboratively to decorate the halls of Anderson with unique and handmade decorations. Awards were given for best hallway decorations and the best teamwork. Can you guess the winner?

Reflections

Black History Month

Black History Month is a time we can celebrate and appreciate the contributions of Black Americans. Not only is it about learning, but it is also a time to reflect on the accomplishments of others.


Black History has been acknowledged in some form since 1915 and every American President since 1976 has designated February as Black History Month. Each year a new theme is chosen, this year being Black Health and Wellness. According to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, the theme acknowledges medical practitioners and scholars as well as other wellness roles like midwives and herbalists. It also “considers activities, rituals and initiatives that Black communities have done to be well.”


The Media Arts class dug a little deeper to explore influential Black Americans amongst students and staff. Student reporters asked individuals to talk about the importance of Black History Month overall as well as names of influential people. The goal of this project was to not only highlight histories but to share perspective throughout our Anderson Community. The Anderson News broadcast is shared below.

Black History Month1

Looking Ahead

Staff vs Student Game

This year, students and staff will face off on the volleyball court! The Anderson School has been looking forward to it's annual staff versus student game. This game started through the Student Council's endeavors in 2014. It was originally a "March Madness" basketball game. Due to the pandemic, the game has changed a little, with the event being canceled in 2020, a socially distanced badminton tournament in 2021, and now a volleyball game. Staff and student sign-ups are happening now here:

https://forms.gle/BWw67i9SYpo8Nn6T9

Winter Weather

Anderson School follow Methacton School District for weather closings. Sometimes, we have a virtual day so we don't have to close. We have a virtual weather schedule for those days! Perhaps winter is soon over, but just in case, check it out here: https://andersoneducation.org/bell-schedules/#Virtual