This quote by Dr. Sylvia Rimm is an oldie but a goodie. As well-meaning parents we often intervene when we see our children struggling with a task, chore, or assignment. And there are certainly times that they need our assistance, especially when learning a new concept or skill. But when it is time to practice something that has already been taught sometimes a little struggle is exactly what is needed. When we (I'm including adults in this category too) persevere through something and come out on the other side of it - whether it's a situation, learning something new - we also learn something new about ourselves. Many times we feel a little better about ourselves and our capacity to grow and learn. This feeling of pride is true for children, too. When they are learning - whether it is in a virtual setting or through homework - try to allow them to opportunity to expand their knowledge and skill set by enduring a little struggle.

The High Ability program is now accepting nominations for students for the 2021-2022 school year. If you would like for your child to be considered please complete the parent nomination form and send it to your child's teacher. Also please let your child's teacher know that you plan to do this so they can complete the teacher recommendation form to accompany yours. The teacher will then give the forms to our counselor, Mrs. Purvitis, who will submit them. Students in grades 1 and 3 will take the CogAT assessment in late October/early November. Any student in grade 2 with a high ability nomination will be included in the testing process. If a 2nd grade student has not been nominated they will not be considered for the high ability assessments.

Virtual learners in grades 1, 2, and 3 will have the opportunity to come into school to participate in the testing. More information will be shared later this month.

Nominations are due by Friday, Oct. 23rd. If you have questions you can refer to the FTCSC High Ability page on the website or contact your child's teacher or me.

Thank you for your participation in our parent/teacher conferences this week! If you have not been able to take advantage of this opportunity yet please reach out to your child's teacher and schedule a time to meet after fall break. I truly believe that the great start we have had this school year is partially attributed to the open lines of communication between home and school. We thank you for your support. It makes a world of difference!

We will be on fall break the weeks of Oct. 5th and Oct. 12th. I hope you are able to enjoy the beautiful fall weather we have been having and spend some relaxing time as a family. We will return to school on Monday, Oct. 19th. We are excited to welcome back several virtual learners, and we look forward to seeing those friends again!

We will celebrate Red Ribbon Week Oct. 26th - Oct. 30th. Specifics can be found in the flyer posted in this newsletter.

One last public service announcement - please be sure you are registered to vote. Monday, Oct. 5th is the deadline to be registered. Regardless of your political affilitation or opinions this is a very important election, and by exercising your democratic right and responsibility you are modeling good citizenship for your children.

Wishing you all a relaxing and enjoyable fall break ~ Jaci Greig

AT THIS TIME WE ARE NO LONGER COLLECTING CAPS.