Saturday, December 8, 2012

Principal's Message 12.7.12

Highlights of the Week
This week I enjoyed having lunch with Mrs. Knuth's first graders in the multi-purpose room.  These lunch dates give me an opportunity to get to know our students more personally.  During the lunches, students share with me one work product they are proud of which helps me to also to get a lens on students' academic work.  Each of Mrs. Knuth's students shared with me a narrative writing sample many of which were focused on Thanksgiving celebrations.  I enjoyed hearing about all the wonderful meals everyone had and the family fun students enjoyed over the break.  All student work shared during these lunches is displayed on the Principal's Lunch Showcase bulletin board which is in the multi-purpose room.  

Also this week, I enjoyed having lunch with our new 2nd grader, Kira who invited a friend from her class, Lila, to join us.  When new students start school at Prairie, they receive a "Welcome to Prairie" gift bag containing fun Prairie items such as a pencil, temporary tattoo, bracelet, cool school folder, and a coupon for lunch with the principal and a friend.  Kira, Lila, and I had a great lunch talking about hobbies, favorite school activities, and our families.  In the upcoming weeks prior to winter break, I look forward to two more new student lunches.       


Artwork and Photography on Display
A big thank you to Mrs. Zeller, Mrs. Seelig, Mrs. Strezewski, Mrs. Moy, and Mrs. DeJesus
for changing the artwork in our displays around the building.  The time spent on updating the artwork frames is truly appreciated.  Staff enjoy the changing artwork and kids LOVE to see their pieces on display throughout the school.

Speaking of creativity on display at Prairie, our new Photography Club has been quite busy these days.  This group of enthusiastic students has been recording our school year since September.  Recently the club has hung nearly 100 photographs all around the school featuring students and staff during celebration and academic times.  These displays are getting a lot of visitors.  Students, staff, and parents are stopping and taking note of these quality photographs which communicate visually the focused work we do and fun we have at Prairie every day.  I would like to thank Mrs. Barry, the club's sponsor, and the students for sharing with our school community in pictures all the great things that are happening every day.    


Safe Snack Reminder
Our holiday parties will be on Friday, December 21st.  Please remember that all snacks provided for these parties must come from the safe snack list.  Food items brought for birthday treats must be from the safe snack list as well.  Thank you in advance for helping to keep all of our students safe from food allergens.  

From District 96 Band & Orchestra Boosters
It's that time of year again! Holiday decorations are in the stores and holiday season is in full swing. Have you started your shopping yet? Why not support the District 96 Band and Orchestra Students by buying gifts for teachers, friends, and family by purchasing HOLIDAY GIFT CARDS now and through December! Order forms are attached (click here) and you don't have to be in Band or Orchestra to support a great organization or have some convenience shopping this holiday season. Please contact Pamela Weiner at pweiner28@comcast.net if you have any questions. 

News from the Nurse...
As winter weather has arrived, now is a good time to remind your children not to share hats, headbands, scarves or earmuffs with their friends as this can lead to an increased transmission of head lice.  Head lice continues to be one of the most common communicable conditions among children, and outbreaks are possible whenever and wherever children gather.  Since the onset of head lice is typical this time of year, it is a good idea to watch for signs that your child may have lice such as frequent head scratching. If your child has lice, there are a variety of treatments available.  Please check the District website, www.kcsd96.org, under the  “Family Resources,” “Student Health” link for specific information on head lice and District 96 practices.

Click here for the PTO Newsletter.

WOW Names Called this week during announcements...
Grade 1: Serena X., Rylee S.
Grade 2:  Daniel R., Brandon F. 
Grade 3:  Will K., Jilliam A.
Grade 4: Chloe S., Danny O.
Grade 5: Jacob G., Lara K.  

Important Dates
*Wednesdays - School Store
*Fridays - Ice Cream Fridays
*Wednesday, 12/12 - Beginning Band Concert at 7pm
*Thursday, 12/13 - Rhythm Band Concert at 6:30pm
*Winter Break - 12/24 - 1/4