Today we started a new book, Freckle Juice by Judy Blume. This is a classic story that I remember as a child in elementary school. The main character, Andrew, wants freckles just like his classmate, Nicky, so his mother will not know if his neck is dirty! Sharon, who teases others, has offered Andrew her secret freckle juice recipe. He has to pay 50 cents for this recipe that makes him sick to his stomach. Andrew does not get any freckles from this juice but decides to solve that problem on his own, but isn't sure he really wants freckles. Ask your child about Andrew and his freckle dilemma.

This morning, students shared their stories of how they celebrated Mother's Day and what they did special. Many moms enjoyed breakfast in bed, while others received special cards. My personal favorite was the gift of peace and quiet. Everyone in the family went for a hike while mom stayed at home for relaxation by herself. However you celebrated, I hope it was the best day ever.
The Act of Kindness assignment this week is "when you see someone in a sad or bad mood, cheer them up." I gave the students some suggestions of how they can cheer others up: Make a poem; Draw a picture; Listen as they talk; Tell a funny joke. Everyone has a bad day and could use a little 'sunshine' brought into by others!

Our 3rd and 4th graders listened to a guest speaker this morning. Mr. Smith, from the Juvenile Justice Center, paid a visit to our school to talk to the group about bullying. He had great stories and examples for the students. He also had some students participate in role playing. He stressed how important it is to stand up for yourself and others if there is bullying. Please ask your 3rd and 4th grade child about what they heard.
I would like to extend a "Happy Mother's Day" to all of our North moms, grandmas, aunts, and friends. May you all be treated to a relaxing day. You all deserve it!

This morning we finished the book, Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes. The main character, Lilly, loves her teacher, Mr. Slinger, and brings in her new plastic purse to share with the teacher and class. Lilly can not stop playing with the purse and gets the purse taken away by Mr.Slinger. This makes her mad so she decides to draw a not-so nice picture of Mr. Slinger and puts it in his school bag. Lilly starts to feel guilty about this on her way home and writes a story of apology to give Mr. Slinger the next day. Mr. Slinger forgives Lilly and throws away the not-so nice picture from the day before. The story is a great example of our character trait for May, forgiveness.
The 3rd and 4th Grade testing is complete! Congratulations to them for a job well done. They took their time and did their best. I am very proud of them. Enjoy this sunshine while it lasts!

Our school has received great news! We were awarded the grant from Kohl's Earth Day planting. These funds will be used to continue activities with our greenhouse! Thanks again to the volunteers that helped with our vegetable and flower plantings.
The character trait for May is forgiveness. The meaning of forgiveness is deciding that someone who has wronged you doesn't have to pay. It is very important to say a sincere apology when you have wronged someone, using eye contact and making sure to
say what you did wrong. It is just as important to accept apologies and move forward with the friendship. This is a good rule for all to live by.

Rain, rain, go away... we need to go out and play! Our 3rd and 4th Graders are moving along with their tests this week. Unfortunately, they were not able to get outside for recess to burn off energy. They can both heave a sigh of relief knowing they are half-way finished. Please continue with exercise, good sleeping, healthy breakfasts, and encouraging words before they leave for school. We will be finished with testing on Thursday.

Welcome back. I hope everyone had a relaxing, enjoyable Spring Break. It is amazing that we have returned to the month of May! Our 3rd Grade returned to a day of Achievement Tests, tomorrow will be 4th Grade's turn. Please remind your children to get to bed on-time and eat a good breakfast. I also encouraged the students to do a few exercises or stretches before coming to school to wake their bodies up! I know that each every one will do their best.
The sharing this morning included lots of fun games that were played for Family Game Night over break. Hopefully this will continue in your house on a weekly or monthly basis. The "Act of Kindness" assignment for this week is to help with dishes. The students can wash or dry dishes, load the dishwasher, or put dishes away. Let's cross our fingers that no dishes will be dropped and broken!