When spring finally begins to show itself, there is an infusion of optimism and energy all around. Not only does the pace of the students pick up, but so does the instruction. Mid-progress reports were sent home at the first of May. There are now limited days left to complete our required work. Classes begin to participate in their one field trip per year.
The field trips are all educationally based. For example: in kindergarten students study in literacy about farms and community helpers. Therefore, they make a trip to a farm. These trips help the students make meaning of what they have been reading about and discussing. There is only one way to fully appreciate all that a farm setting has to offer and that can only be achieved by visiting it in person.
In April our students participated in a health fair. Many local health providers from the Houlton Regional Hospital and our local police, as well as fire department representatives conducted mini lessons on dental health, fire safety, etc. This is a wonderful way to expose students to a wide range of health topics in a short span of time. The students are always so appreciative of the free handouts from the presenters. They are attentive listeners and thoughtful participants in the mini lessons. The Houlton Elementary staff and students greatly appreciate each presenter who made the health fair such a success again this year.
May is also a special month not only for the presence of 747 size mosquitos, but also for staff appreciation. The teachers, secretaries, custodians, kitchen staff, educational techs, nurses, and bus drivers are all recognized. At HES, the PTO coordinates with parents to provide refreshments each day of staff appreciation week. It is a really special treat. On behalf of the HES staff, thank you for your thoughtfulness and continued support of our work.
The PTO has been organizing and preparing for Spring Fling on June 12 from 5-7 p.m. Spring Fling is like an old fashioned carnival with simple games such as ring toss, horseshoes and other basic games. The students win prizes and get their faces painted. It is a wonderful family event and a tradition at the school. We have been very fortunate over the years to miraculously have good weather most of the time. The activities are held behind the school unless it is raining.
Our school was fortunate to win the Hannaford School Dollars program. Jody Moulton and Joy Ivey came to the school with the $1,000 check and presented it to some students. These funds will be used to replenish our pea stone sand box and replace our fleet of metal dump trucks and shovels. Many students still seek out playtime in the sandbox. The benefits of playing far outweigh the generated dirt. The old sandbox is still a fan favorite!
The focal point of our work this year has been in mathematics. Teachers have been reviewing our mathematics curriculum and identifying areas that need strengthening and prioritizing our math standards. Teachers have also revised the report card just a little to reflect the adjustments we have made in our math programming and to reflect our assessment of students on proficiency based standards. Proficiency based standards are specific skills or knowledge that students are expected to demonstrate prior to high school graduation. By reflecting on our present instructional practices, student data, and best instructional practices, we are hoping to see an improvement in student math achievement in the immediate future.
We want to remind parents to please not send their children to school in flip flops. Flip flops are a tripping hazard as the children run and climb on the playground equipment during recess.
Sandals that keep toes and heels nice and snug are fine. Enjoy the beautiful weather!
