After an event-filled theme week and our Thankful Tuesday celebration, who could blame us for trying to have a relatively “normal” week at Friends? This was a week to hit the books and make good use of our classroom time. Throughout the week, the quiet hum of academics in the classroom was occasionally interrupted by the shouts of recess.
Developing Self-Regulation in Children –Thirty parents joined us for this interesting and informative evening with Dr. Karen Bierman. We were also able to discuss some particular concerns with her and the group. The children who attended also had a great time in our child care program. Look for more of these events in the future. Thanks again to professor and parent Karen Bierman for sharing her research and insights with us.
Staff Development – We also extend our thanks to school parent, Jason Gines. He provided our staff with two in-service sessions on diversity issues. The presentations and open discussions helped us begin to explore diversity and discrimination issues. Thanks again to Jason for his knowledge and ability to engage us in thoughtful conversation.
Reminders
Holiday Gathering – On Tuesday, December 22, we’ll gather in the Community Room at 1:45 p.m. for our annual Holiday Gathering. We’ll do some singing together and nibble cookies before we all depart for our holiday break. All families and friends are invited, and we hope you’ll plan to join us.
Peace Choir/Foxdale Chorus Performance – You’re invited! Tomorrow, December 5, the school’s Peace Choir will perform with the Foxdale Chorus. This special event will be held at 1:30 p.m. in the Foxdale Auditorium. We’re excited by the opportunity to combine our voices with those of our neighbors. Thanks to Ann Clements, Peace Choir director, for her work in making this happen.
Open House – Our first Admissions Open House of the season will be held on Friday, January 15 from 9:30 a.m. – noon. We’ll be inviting prospective families to visit that morning to tour the school and see the classrooms in action. We’d appreciate your help in spreading the word, and we hope you’ll let Mary know if you might like to lend a hand as a tour guide.
A Book for Every Child – We are still taking donations for your new or slightly used books. This is a great local cause which seeks to put a book in the hand of every child in Centre County.
Food Bank Collection – Our collection box for Food Bank donations is in our front lobby. All kinds of food items are needed by local families this season, and you can drop off your contributions at any time.
Sing with King – I would like to invite all families and friends to participate in the King Chorus for our annual production of King in Montgomery: Ten Years in the Non-Violent Civil Rights Movement. This is an uplifting and moving performance that needs your voice to come alive. Previous choir experience is not necessary, only the desire to sing out in big group. Contact the school for more information or to sign up.
Free Winter Play Days – On Saturdays Jan 16th, February 20th and March 13th, from 9:30 to 11:30 AM, Friends School will host Saturday Play Days for children from 3-7 years old. The school‘s Community Room and a classroom will be open for supervised active and imaginative play. This is a great opportunity to bring a friend to the school and enjoy a morning out of the cold. Refreshments and snacks will be served. All are welcome.
Have a safe and healthy weekend.
Dan
