Fall leaves are magical for so many reasons. There is something about a big pile of leaves that is irresistible to kids. Leaves can also bring out the kid in adults and are always a great source of family entertainment. There are so many learning opportunities for both kid’s bodies and minds hidden within this addictive fall play. Leaves check all the boxes for both gross motor skills and fine motor development. The running, jumping, rolling, and throwing of leaves helps kids learn better balance and strengthens their entire bodies. Then, they have to switch gears and use their fine motor skills to gently pick up single leaves when creating art and science projects. Enjoy making wonderful creations in the Fall. - Dr. Smith

This month is Bullying Prevention Month. This month provides us with an opportunity to reflect on the classroom and school culture. It is a time to examine best practices when it comes to creating respectful school environments that foster inclusion and respect. During this time, the staff and students are both placing an emphasis on as well as celebrating acts of Kindness. Acts of kindness can make the world a happier place. An act of kindness can boost feelings of confidence, being in control, happiness and optimism. They may also encourage others to repeat the good deeds they've experienced themselves – contributing to a more positive school community. Our 3rd grade staff and students did an awesome job kicking off our 2nd School Wide Morning Meeting on Monday, placing an emphasis on our next Panther Pride character word: Kindness. During the SWMM students participated in a Morning Message, a Greeting, an Activity and enjoyed watching a few staff members participate in a Minute to Win It Game in which their challenge was to juggle balloons without letting the balloons touch the floor. The students also learned a new Kindness chant (featured below). We all had a great time immersed in laughter and spreading kindness.

Students had a ton of fun meeting with their PALS. The PALS Program was designed to bring students from (2) different classrooms together, once a month, throughout the course of the school year. During these monthly gatherings, PALS classrooms come together to engage in fun, interactive activities designed to promote social and academic development.