January 27-21, 2024

Happy Lunar New Year! It is the year of the snake! 

We completed a directed draw of a snake and learned about traditions and customs of the Lunar New Year.  How many "gold coins" bring you luck?  Our students chose their number of "gold coins" and put them "inside" their red envelope in their journal.

We continued our study about Animals in Winter. We didn't find any animal tracks in the snow around the school with the warmer weather but we know there is still time for more snow and observation! So, this week we explored animal movements, their tracks in the snow, and their behaviors in the wood using stories and videos.

We combined science and math to explore animal paw prints. Students compared the paw print sizes of a bear, wolf, and fox. Then they used nonstandard measurements of their hands and math cubes to measure them. This task integrated measurement and numeracy by counting the blocks and comparing them using phrases like "bigger than" and "smaller than." Then students used animal track sponge stencils to make some tracks to hang on our classroom walls!

We then used stamps that Mrs. Wiskar made to create some animal tracks in our classroom!

The story, Winter's Gifts is about an Indigenous girl who celebrates the gifts of winter with her family and friends. The gifts of resting, remembrance, and gratitude can transform the way we see the world. In art, we expressed the beauty of winter animals in the style of Canadian Indigenous artist, Norval Morrisseau. 

Students noted features of Morrisseau’s Indigenous art, commenting on its colors and layers. They learned about the history of Indigenous people, stating, "Indigenous people lived here first." 

Here is a sneak peek of what we created, but stay tuned for the final expression of our work!

Just a reminder, as a class, we will be exploring themes of friendship, love and kindness as we approach Valentine's Day, but we will NOT be exchanging pre-made cards or treats at school. Our learning time during the day is short and we want each child to contribute to an inclusive whole group lesson and intentional friendship activity. Students will bring home their special must-do activity ahead of Teacher's Convention to share with families! We appreciate your understanding and support!

Please do not send Valentine Cards or treats to school.

Important Kindergarten Dates

Monday, February 3 - Library Day - return books in their plastic protective bags

Friday, February 7 -  AM Class Attends

Link to our Simons Valley School calendar: Click Here

Link to schedule for Friday Kindergarten Classes: Friday Schedule

Our Emails

Mrs. Oster: rdoster@cbe.ab.ca 

Mrs. Sutherland: klsutherland@cbe.ab.ca 

Mrs. Wiskar: mjwiskar@cbe.ab.ca