Friday, June 5, 2009 Newsletter Updates - Picnic Edition

I'm writing this a couple hours before the picnic, but it'll be emailed at the end of the picnic. So, when you read this, it'll be after 2:00 on Friday afternoon. That means the 2008-2009 school year is officially over...after you get this news, of course!

What's in the Envelope?
This newsletter is available on the class website and via email, but everything else is in the envelope. Here's what you'll find:

• This Newsletter
• Your child's report card
• Iowa Test of Basic Skills results
• Star Reading and Star Math parent letters
• Any physical fitness awards your child earned
• A certificate from Junior Achievement
• End-of-the-Year Cougar Kids statements
• Volleyball camp note (girls)

Wow. I'm reminded of a line from Jaws. "You're gonna need a bigger envelope."

Star Math and Star Reading and Iowa Tests of Basic Skills Reports
The reports do a good job of explaining the statistics shown, but it is important to remember that these are simply "snapshots" of a child's standing at the end of the year. There's plenty of things that can makes the camera go out of focus, so to speak: classroom distractions, wandering minds, a good book sitting on the table next to you while you take the test. Use the reports as a piece of the achievement puzzle, but not as perfect illustrations of your child's ability.

Thank You!
This has certainly been a school year like no other for me. Obviously, having Megan in the class was a part of that by itself, but because I have a child in the class, I've been watching them all grow for years, and in several cases, since preschool at St. Luke's. Remember those days? Remember these guys as kindergartners singing "A B C D E..." and "Je-sus loves me, this I know..."? Some have come (welcome, James and Kaitlyn!) and some have left, but now look at them! They are multiplying and dividing and reading 200+ page novels and playing instruments and are on competitive sports teams and know what words like photosynthesis mean...

In three short months they'll be - gulp! - upper graders!

But besides all the personal reasons, I would still say thank you for a great school year. I say this every year, but honestly, I don't know where the year went. Off the top of my head I can't think of any major problems we dealt with. Sure, there were little ones (it's still never appropriate to continue your conversation when the teacher is speaking), but I'd rather remind a class to be quiet in the hall every day than break up fights on the playground. This is a great bunch of kids, and they have been a blessing to me. Thank you, parents, for entrusting them to me this year.

I hope that the students leave fourth grade with more of a lot of things: More knowledge, more desire to read, more success in school, and more reassurance of the love of Jesus in their lives. I also hope they always remember to "See Jesus." Remember, "Whatever you do for the least of these brothers of mine, that you did unto me." See Jesus in others. Treat him/them appropriately. And follow Jesus' example of servanthood. That way, when others look at you, they'll see Jesus too.

Missing Items
If there are any accounts to be settled like hot lunch or Cougar Kids, please take care of them as soon as possible. If anyone finds any of Mr. Wilhorn's books over the summer, please bring them to the school office. (I won't even ask any questions. No late fees, no speeches on responsibility, no revocation of library privileges, nothing.)

The Upcoming Week...I mean...The Upcoming SUMMER!

Memory – Remember, Jesus loves you.

Religion – Take time to worship Jesus this summer. After all, he loves you.

Reading – Read the Bible and find 5 places where it says Jesus loves you. Find some good books over the summer and READ.

English – Write 10 sentences, all stating that Jesus loves someone.

Math – Calculate how many months, weeks, days, hours, minutes and seconds in a year Jesus loves you.

Science – Read books on ecosystems. List 10 ecosystems you could go where Jesus would love you.

Social Studies – Geography: List 10 landforms upon which Jesus loves you. History: For how long has Jesus loved you? Civics: Can any government make any law that would restrict the love of Jesus? (Trick question!)

Spelling – Word list: 1. Jesus 2. Loves 3. You *4. Unconditionally (bonus word)

In Case You Missed It
Here are the statistics for our reading this year, according to the chain links completed (that's one chain link for each book read.)

Total Links - 649 links
Total Length - 170 feet

Biggest Reading Month - March (137 links, 36 feet)
Lowest Reading Month - February (37 links, 9 feet)

Average Links per Month - 72
Average Length per Month - 19 feet

And now, the totally amazing statistics:

Average Books Read per Student - 36 books
Average Books per Week per Student - 1 book

On average, the students in fourth grade read a book a week! A book a week! This doesn't count Hatchet or Frindle or Riding Freedom, the books we read for class. So that's 39 books per student. We also read something like 20 books aloud during the year. AND we didn't count reading stories or science lessons or social studies lessons or computer screens and printouts.

Now THAT'S something to be proud of!

And finally...
It doesn't say it on the report card, but everyone passed, despite all my threats to make people repeat fourth grade. Have a great fifth grade year!

This class...the books...chain links...I mean...AMAZING!!!

I'm nearly at a loss for words. (Nearly.) We took down the chain links today from the ceiling. Every time a student finished a book, he or she would fill out a chain link. Each link, therefore, counted as one book read. Here are some statistics we figured:

Total Links - 649 links
Total Length - 170 feet

Biggest Reading Month - March (137 links, 36 feet)
Lowest Reading Month - February (37 links, 9 feet) What, was love in the air or something?

Average Links per Month - 72
Average Length per Month - 19 feet

And now, the totally amazing statistics:

Average Books Read per Student - 36 books
Average Books per Week per Student - 1 book

On average, the students in fourth grade read a book a week! A book a week! Then we remembered that this didn't count Hatchet or Frindle or Riding Freedom, the books we read for class. So that's 39 books per student. We also read something like 20 books aloud during the year. AND we didn't count reading stories or science lessons or social studies lessons or computer screens and printouts.

WOW!

UPDATE Book Day!

Here's a picture of what each kid looked like when they saw their book:

Here's the story:

Yesterday we made Thank You cards and Have A Good Summer cards for all the adults in the school. This morning the kids delivered their cards to teachers, principal, cooks, secretaries, and pretty much all the adults. Those adults all...mysteriously...somehow...had a copy of Beyond the Grave - The 39 Clues Book 4. Kids came screaming down the hall, some at a full sprint (I forgave them) holding books. Some kids had the self-control to not open the brown bag package they received, believe it or not, even after some kids actually brought up the book in our morning discussions before we delivered the cards! All of them thought they were delivering the one copy the class needed, only to find everyone had their own. It was priceless.

Here's a picture of what we've done all day:

Thanks for keeping the secret, thanks for your support, and my apologies if we don't finish the books during the day and your child won't come to supper tonight. (We didn't finish the book.)

Newsletter Updates

Envelopes Last Friday
I was asked last Friday to send a message about notes coming home with each student. And I forgot. Until now, that is! An envelope from Mr. and Mrs. Cisewski came home with your child last week on Friday. Sorry for the late update.

End of the Year Stuff

Library Books - If you have any of Mr. Wilhorn's books, please get them back ASAP. A few times I've heard "I'm not sure where that is..." Now's the time to start digging.

Picnic - The school picnic is Friday. The picnic starts at 11:00 and goes until 2:00. Notes went out about bringing a dish to pass and more picnic details. Students don't need to come to school early, just arrive at the picnic at 11:00. Families are all invited. Report cards will be handed out after our final worship.

And Finally...
Well, that's it, actually. But another update is coming shortly about today's events so far.

Thursday's Rib Mountain Field Trip
Here are a couple reminders and new details for Thursday's field trip.

Cameras: One of our activities will be a scavenger hunt. Since we can't actually take the items we are looking for, I would like to take pictures of the items. Parents (not students, please) who are coming, if have and would like to bring a digital camera it would be greatly appreciated. Small groups will take pictures of scavenger hunt items. Pictures can then be uploaded directly to a school computer when we return or they can be emailed to me at school. Then all the pictures we take can be gathered and put on a CD for the students.

Sunscreen and Insect Repellent: We'll be in the forest quite a bit and it's tick season. The mosquitoes will be out too. Although it shouldn't be too hot, the sun is also supposed to be out.

Comfortable Shoes and Appropriate Clothing: Walking shoes, preferable tennis shoes or hiking boots, not sandals will be needed. Watch the weather report - have a sweatshirt and long pants along even if you don't plan to wear them. School guidelines also apply.

What Not To Bring: Anything students bring is their personal responsibility. That being said, please don't bring video games or music players. It's a pretty short trip, and the conversation should be able to last 45 minutes. A small backpack or bag would be okay, but students aren't required to bring much.

Remember a Lunch & Drink: Everybody needs a cold lunch. Please pack everything in disposable containers. And parents - teachers too - don't forget yours as well. (Spoken from experience...)

Branch Observation & Final Assignment
Yesterday was the final branch observation assignment. (Or tonight if you forgot yesterday. We'll be making our observation tonight.) Students received their final assignment today. We discussed my expectations in great detail today. The final assignments and all branch observations are due on Friday, but may be turned in as soon as they are completed.

Culver's Night Tonight
Just a reminder...

Monday, 5/18 Newsletter Updates

And Now A Word From Mrs. Wilhorn...
Hello 4th Grade Families,
I work at Mead Elementary as a Reading Specialist and one of my goals for the end of the year is to send the kids home with books that they are able to read over the summer. I have a team of teachers that is helping me recruit new or "slightly used" books that we are able to give away in the beginning of June. If you have any children's books that are collecting dust at your house, I'd love to be able to send them home with kids. We need books for kindergarten through 6th grade, so both picture books and chapter books would be great. If you have any to donate, please send them in to Mr. Wilhorn by Tuesday, June 2nd and I'll pick them up from him.

Thanks for your help!
Mrs. Wilhorn

Field Trips
All of the field trip forms have been turned in, and I will be sending home a note soon listing drivers and other details. Keep an eye out for it. Some people have asked where we'll be on Friday for the downtown WR field trip. Here's the plan:

1. We will park behind the bank, across from the theater
2. We'll walk up to the post office
3. Down Grand Ave. to the theater
4. Over past the Jackson Street bridge past the clock tower
5. Back to Grand Ave. and across the bridge
6. Walk to the bank.
7. Back to the cars.

If you are going to join us downtown, it shouldn't take too long to find the bunch of kids carrying papers and pencils. We'll see you there!

Don't Forget Branch Observation #7 Tonight...

A Short Note About Daily Work
Don't let summer creep in just yet! We still have plenty of work to do and goals to accomplish. Kids, do your best to be responsible - get stuff done, keep it organized, know where it is (like in your homework folder), and continue to do your best. Thanks!

An Important Change of Plans!

Concerning the last item of yesterday's newsletter...which will remain unmentioned here...

The plan is going ahead as scheduled. The only thing we await is the delivery. All other details have been taken care of, including the cost. Word quickly got out about the plan, some people thought it was a good activity for the students, anonymous donations were made, and all costs were covered. No one needs to send in any money.

Take a moment and thank God for the willingness of the families and individuals of Immanuel to get behind something like this. Before yesterday was done I had already heard from over half the families in the class, all responses were positive and supportive, and the entire cost had been covered. Thank God and thank you!

Tuesday, 5/12 Newsletter Updates

Dads & Donuts
Tomorrow morning we continue the tradition of Dads & Donuts. All students my invite their father, grandfathers, uncles, or other important men in their lives to come to school for a coffee and donut social time. Serving starts at 8:00 in the cafeteria. Students may come up to their rooms at 8:25 and guests are invited to come along. Chapel will be in Kuechle Hall at 8:50, and all guests are invited to worship with us too.

Individual Chapel Offerings
Tomorrow's chapel offerings are going toward the Leave a Legacy Campaign. This is an effort to build up the Bud Kersten Student Scholarship Fund. This fund is Immanuel's effort to guarantee that nobody misses the opportunity to attend Immanuel Lutheran School due to financial concerns. All students have been asked to bring something, regardless how small, to help guarantee future students can come to Immanuel. Offerings won't go in baskets. Instead, each students will deliver their offering personally to the front, hopefully making the offering more personal and meaningful.

Fourth Grade Field Trips

We have two field trips planned for the upcoming weeks. Here's what is planned:

FRIDAY, MAY 22 - Wisconsin Rapids History Walk
We will leave school at 12:00 (after lunch) and go downtown. Students will have a collection of historical photographs from numerous places in Wisconsin Rapids including buildings, the river and dam, and the Grand Avenue bridge. Students will compare what they see now to what these places used to look like in the past.

The best part of this trip last year was when the adults that came along started sharing stories. "I used to go to..." or "When school got out we used to walk here and..." Parents, you are invited to go with us if your schedule allows. Grandparents are also invited. Anyone who could share stories about what things used to be like in Wisconsin Rapids would make the trip much more valuable. Please be advised that there is a lot of walking.

If any parents could drive at 12:00, that would be great. Drivers aren't necessary - it's not that far - but it allows us more time downtown if we don't have to and from school. We will return to school by 3:30. There is no cost for this trip.

THURSDAY, MAY 28 - Rib Mountain Hiking and History
Rib Mountain has a lot of great history and geology to study. A park ranger has sent me a huge folder full of information. We will spend time hiking, studying the geology of the Rib Mountain area, and the history of Rib Mountain including Native Americans and early settlers.

Mr. Betts has said that we could take parent drivers to save on the cost of bussing. I would also like to split students into smaller groups, but I'll need an adult with each group anyway. If your schedule allows, please consider driving and leading a small group. I won't ask you to teach anything, just keep the kids on task and away from the 100 foot cliffs. We will leave school at 8:45 and return by 3:30. Allowing an hour to drive each way, this still gives us at least four and a half hours in the park.

There is no cost for this trip as long as we have parent drivers. Wisconsin State Parks waive entrance fees for school groups.

So What Now?
Please watch your child's take-home folder for permission slips next week. For now, check your calendar and see if the dates work for you to drive/attend. If you are able to drive there will be a spot on the permission slip to fill in. Before that, if you already know that you wish to drive or attend, you can drop me an email.

And pray for good weather.

Thanks!

Physical Fitness Testing

Just a reminder - since I forgot to remind on Friday - that Monday and Tuesday are physical fitness testing days at school. Monday we will be going over to Lincoln to run the mile (four whole laps!) and continuing in the gym that afternoon to do the other activities. Tuesday is the make-up day.

All kids should have their gym shoes, but please make sure that the clothes you wear tomorrow are good ones for running.

Thanks. See you tomorrow!

Thursday, 4/30 Newsletter Updates

Next Week Friday
Next week is mini-course week. Students will be involved in many different activities on Friday. Fourth graders will stay in the building - some of the other grades go off-campus for different activities - and students will work in small groups.

I will be attending my final advisory board meeting for the CCBC (Cooperative Children's Book Center) at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. I served a 3-year term which is done this year. It is a great organization, and I'm honored to have served.

Mid Terms
It's that time again - grades! Fourth quarter midterms are coming home next week on Tuesday. Again, these aren't official grades. Rather, they are an update of where we stand at this point in the quarter. Please return the signature forms as soon as possible.

Wash Your Hands, Everybody
Swine Flu has been all over the news. The latest update I've seen is that it has reached Adams County, and the infected gentleman works in Wisconsin Rapids.

Of course, the number one way to keep from being infected with any virus, including the latest flu virus that is spreading quickly, is to wash your hands regularly. And I always add this next bit for the kids...they think it's hilarious, even though it's true...viruses enter the body through mucus membranes like the eyes and mouth. However, the number one way viruses enter the body? The nose. Keep your fingers visible, folks.

All joking aside, let's do what we can to prevent the spread of all viruses. Wash, cover your mouth, wash again, and stay home if you are sick.

Memory
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing is our memory hymn for next week. We will only be doing the three verses marked on the sheet coming home. This is a tough one! It's got longer verses and weird words. We will spend part of our religion time discussing what it all means - interpreting the poetic phrases, so to speak. Two verses are required. Three verses are needed for an A.

Here are two versions. Both are slightly different, and there are no lyrics on the video, but nevertheless, knowing the melody and fitting the lyrics into it usually helps with remembering.

Whoops! Branch Observation Today!

I forgot to remind everyone, but the assignment is still assigned:

Make your branch observation tonight.

Of course, I should have reminded everyone, so if you don't get this message, than Tuesday evening will be fine. I'm going to write it on the assignment board right now so I don't forget again.

Next Week's Memory

Here is next week's memory. It is the hymn All Creatures of Our God and King. The first video is from the LCMS Youth Gathering in 2007 (I think it was 2007.) This is the worship band that led worship for over 40,000 high school students from Lutheran churches around the country. The second video is from David Crowder Band. (I couldn't resist.) Both have the lyrics printed.

Student should say all three verses.

Thursday, 4/23, Newsletter Announcements

The Cheese Stands Alone
Tomorrow is the big day! Performances of The Cheese Stands Alone are at 10:30 tomorrow morning and 6:30 in the evening. Fourth graders should know what their costumes are, and will be given time to change before the morning performance. Students should arrive at school at 6:10 for the evening show. If you arrive earlier, please keep your children with you until that time.

A note should have come home yesterday with these details, or it will come home tonight.

Pictures
A few weeks ago we took spring pictures. It is your option to purchase them or not. If you wish to purchase them, follow the instructions on the insert with the pictures. If you do not want any, simply return them to school. All pictures that are kept must be paid for, and all returns must be back by April 30.

Next Week's Memory - Amazing Grace

Here are two videos of Amazing Grace by two different artists. Both have included extra parts, but all that is required are the 5 verses marked on the memory sheet that went home today. Students are not required to say any of the italicized words on the memory sheet. Those are all the extra choruses added by the artists. I suggested to students to find the verse they want to study, watch/listen to it, then click back to the point in the video where it began to watch/listen to just that part again.

Of course, these videos aren't a requirement - "Fourth graders did you watch your videos today?" - but for some students, seeing/hearing/reading/singing is a great way to learn the words. (And the songs are pretty cool, too.)

Amazing Grace contains four verses. Grace like rain contains two of the same verses plus one additional verse.

Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone) by Chris Tomlin



Grace Like Rain by Todd Agnew

Tuesday, 4/14 News

Achievement Tests
We started the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills yesterday and, other than a little grumbling, they have gone off without a problem. We'll continue taking 2 or 3 a day and will be finished by the end of the week.

The Cheese Stands Alone
We also are busy practicing for the Spring musical. Yesterday we worked on staging - where to stand, how to deliver our lines, etc. - and this afternoon we will be doing a large group practice of all the songs. Keep practicing those lines at home. Fourth graders are the lead characters! Performance day is Friday, April 24. There will be one matinee and one evening performance.

Ablaze!
Ablaze is a program developed by the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod to get the good news of Jesus to millions of people. The Lutheran School initiative involved a 20 program of hearing the word. We are listening to the story of Jesus according to the Gospels. Coming home today is a "Bible Stick" or Bible mp3 player. It includes main stories of the Old Testament, the New Testament, and some songs. Also included is the 20 day program we are doing in school that can also be done at home. The second part of the program is that the DVD and Bible Stick would be shared with someone else after the program is finished so that more people can hear the Word of God. After all, faith comes by hearing the Word.

Branch Observation
Yesterday was Day #2 for the science branch observation. If your branch is like ours, there have been very little changes. Nevertheless, detailed observations are necessary. These observations will be used to complete the final assignment. Also, it is a good idea to state differences you see week to week. This will help in the end. It is also something I have modeled for the students with a branch in front of school, so they know what I'm looking for.

Thursday - Feels Like Friday - 4/9 Newsletter Updates

Report Cards Today
Third quarter report cards are coming home today, and again, they are in sealed envelopes so to avoid comparisons with classmates. Please return the signature form as soon as possible.

Memory
Our fourth quarter at-school memory starts next week. We will be doing lyrics from traditional hymns. A printed copy of the song was sent home today, and a video is also posted on the website. The video has the song along with the lyrics. You can listen and follow along. It's a great way to learn the song. Some songs have an added chorus or other part. These are written in italics and not required. Students may say as much as possible at a time, but it should be at least one verse.

Our first hymn is "O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing" performed by the David Crowder Band. It's a traditional hymn in an nontraditional arrangement.

And after Easter, isn't that a wish that we all should have, that we could have a thousand tongues (and that wouldn't even be enough) to sing the praises of a God that loves us so much?

Achievement Tests
We will be taking our achievement tests next week. Again, there isn't much to do in preparation other than get plenty of rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and don't stress out about it.

Spring Program Practice and Performance
We've been working hard with Mrs. Rucks and Ms. Tara McMiller getting ready for the big Spring program. April 24 is performance day with an afternoon show and an evening show. In the meantime, kids are working on memorizing their lines and singing the songs.

So why does the cheese stand alone, anyway?

Spanish
Fourth graders started their four session exploratory Spanish class today. Spanish colors and counting up to 100 should be part of their vocabulary! We will not have a session next week, but there are three more in the weeks after that.

Here's the Video of the Memory Hymn: (available on the website, but not in the email.)

One Forgotten Note

Branch Observation Project
Today we started the annual fourth grade branch observation project. A detailed letter went home with the assignment today. Students are to observe a tree branch once a week until the end of the quarter to see how trees change in spring.

Students were given the final assignment as well. This isn't an assignment at this point. I simply wanted the students to see what will be asked of them at the end of the project and hopefully recognize the importance of detailed observations.

We are doing the assignment as a class here at school as well so students know what is expected and can see weekly how it's done. The plan is that observations will be made each Monday, but I did tell students that if Monday evening doesn't work, the observation could be done on Monday morning or Sunday evening if necessary, but it is important that the observations take place at regular intervals.

Monday, April 6 Updates

Tomorrow is Picture Day
Tomorrow is Spring picture day. The photo company takes the photos at no charge, and families are given the opportunity to purchase them afterward. There is no obligation to purchase anything, but it is a unique opportunity for additional photos.

Chapel This Week
At Immanuel we have traditionally had chapel every day during Holy Week, and that tradition continues this week. Each morning at 8:50 Pastor Grohs and some assisting students will lead a 10-15 minute chapel service.

ITBS..What's That?
Next week, starting Monday, we will be taking the ITBS, better known as the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills. These are your standard fill-in-the-bubble achievement tests. Students take these in the even numbered grades here at Immanuel, so students last took them in second grade. There isn't anything to do to prepare for them other than get plenty of rest and eat a good breakfast. We won't do all of them in one day. We won't even block out big chunks of time. Instead, we'll take an hour here, 40 minutes there, and plug away at them over the course of the entire week.

Report Cards
Third Quarter Report Cards are coming home on Thursday. Keep an eye out for that envelope.

And Finally...
I hope everyone had a great Spring Break full of rest and relaxation, whether you stayed close to home or traveled the world. Everyone seemed to be smiling this morning, so it seems it was a pretty good break. Welcome to the fourth quarter!

Monday News, 3/16

Wednesday and Thursday
I will be gone on Wednesday and Thursday this week. On Wednesday I will be at Our Savior's Lutheran School in Springfield, Illinois talking to their teachers and students about books. A former teacher here at Immanuel, Mr. Parris, is now the principal there and asked me to come when he learned I'd be in town on Thursday.

On Thursday I will still be presenting about literature at the Illinois Reading Council's annual convention in Springfield. I'll be driving back Thursday evening and in school, ready to go, on Friday because on Friday is...

The Andrew Peterson Concert
Andrew Peterson will be at Immanuel during the day. At 1:00 he will discuss his books with the older students, grades 4-8. We've already been brainstorming questions to ask. At 2:00 he will do a mini-concert for our students. How cool is that? The full concert is at 7:00 at the PAC. Immanuel families get tickets for their family at $5.00 each! All other tickets are $7.00 in advance and $10.00 at the door. If you haven't yet, check out http://andrewinrapids.blogspot.com.

Choir News
First of all, thanks to everyone for coming to St. Luke's and Immanuel these past two weeks to sing with the 3/4 grade choir. This Thursday is the annual swim night at Lincoln High School. No money is needed. Students may get into the locker room at 6:15 and the pool is open at 6:30. This event is open to all choir members, which means our entire class!

Prayer Request
We discussed this and prayed in class today, but I wanted to ask families to pray as well. One of our fifth graders here at Immanuel is in the hospital in Madison. (The kids can fill you in, but for digital privacy reasons, I'll leave the name out of this post.) I don't know many details, but as of noon today, family and doctors were still awaiting the results of various tests.

Please do what you can to avoid speculation or jumping to conclusions and please help your children to do the same. Above all, pray. Pray for healing, strength for the family, wisdom for the doctors, and that most of all, God's will - "for the good of all who love Him" - be done. Thanks.

Andrew Peterson in Concert

The Andrew Peterson concert is next week on Friday. As a way to get the word out, we created a website with information about Andrew, the show, tickets, etc. It also includes live performances and videos of Andrew's music. New videos will be posted every day from now until the concert on March 20.

The address is http://andrewinrapids.blogspot.com/. (That's Andrew In Rapids . blogspot.com.)Please email that address to anyone and everyone you think might be interested in learning more about Andrew Peterson, his music, and the upcoming show.

I know I'm biased, but you won't want to miss it. Parents, grandparents, everyone.

Enjoy the videos!

An OK Bit of Extra Information

Click The OK Book for more information from illustrator Tom Lichtenheld's website.

Check out the activites at the bottom of the page. They are designed for younger kids, but they'll give you an idea of what the book is about.

Friday Newsletter Updates

Amazing Lutheran Schools Week
What a fun week! From LEGOs to Opera to Talent Shows to Dressing Up to Class Colors to School Spirit to Breakfast to Christian Messages to Dr. Seuss! Where else can you do all of those in one week other than a Lutheran School during Lutheran School's Week? Most importantly, isn't it great that we can celebrate our Lord Jesus Christ in school, each day, and do all of these things in His name? Of course it is! Thanks for a great week.

Third & Fourth Grade Choir Sings This Weekend...
Sunday, March 8 at St. Lukes at the 10:30 service. Students are asked to meet in the church basement at 10:15 to run through the songs. Singing will happen at the beginning of the service. After that, students are excused to sit with their parents or leave quietly, especially if you've already attended worship elsewhere.

...And Next Weekend
Sunday, March 15 at Immanuel at the 8:00 service. Again, please meet 15 minutes early, this time upstairs in the choir room. Students are again dismissed to sit with parents after the singing is complete.



The OK Book
We did a fun activity today with The OK Book. Ask your fourth grader what they might be OK at.





The Upcoming Week
Memory - At School: The Lord's Prayer, The first prayer before meals. At Home: Q3W7 Slips
Reading - Wrap Up Theme 3. Begin a novel...maybe...?
English - Writing
Math - Lessons 69-71, Test 13, and an Investigation lesson.
Science - Finish the solar system. Begin body systems.
Social Studies - Finish the south central states.
Spelling - Unit 25: doctor, dollar, power, sugar, corner, collar, danger, ladder, labor, cellar, other, motor Extra Words: hunger, calendar, horror, officer, explore, porch Bonus Words: examiner, firefighter

Tuesday

Class Color Day
Tomorrow is class color day, and our class's color is...hold on for it...here it comes...are you ready?...GRAY!

My first three choices were gone by the time I got to choose, so I just said, "Gray!" That's all right, all rainbows need gray clouds to start. AND if you mix all the primary colors you end up with gray. So, it's like we're rainbows!

Midterm Signature Forms
I am still waiting for three signature forms from the midterms. If yours is still out, please return it tomorrow so I know midterms all made it to the proper home.

THANKS
There were a lot of white t-shirts today, and that allowed us to affix stars to our bellies and be star-bellied sneetches. Some of us were sneetches with "no stars upon thars." Here's a little sneetchy treat:




Head to the class website for the video. http://loudestclass.blogspot.com

Sunday Night Announcement

Sorry, sorry, sorry for the late notice on this, and I know not everyone will see this tonight, but here's an announcement for tomorrow concerning Lutheran Schools Week.

Monday - tomorrow - is scheduled to be Literature Day / Dr. Seuss Day. It's actually Read Across America Day sponsored by the National Education Association, a day to encourage reading, and it's Dr. Seuss's birthday! As a part of the day, students are encouraged to dress as a favorite Dr. Seuss character. So here's the deal:

If you already had a plan to be Thing 1 and Thing 2 with a friend or to be the Cat in the Hat or any other plan (maybe even Gerald McBoing Boing) go with it. Keep your plan.

If you didn't, and here I admit that I forgot to discuss it with the class, I have a plan. It's easy. Wear a white t-shirt tomorrow. I have a Dr. Seuss book I'd like to share, and we can all easily be a character from that book.

Again, sorry, sorry, sorry, for the late notice. If you see or talk to anyone tonight, let them know. Pass the word around. I tried to catch everyone I saw at the FunFest today, but I know I missed some people. Feel free to wear your sweatshirt over it too, that'll be fine.

If it works, it works. If it doesn't, we'll roll with it and come up with the very best improvisation the Lutheran School World has ever seen! On a Monday. During Lutheran Schools Week. In 2009.

Friday News, 2/27

Celebration Weekend!
Tomorrow is the Third Annual Celebration Auction and Sunday is the Twenty-Somethingth Annual FunFest! Both activities are great fun, and the weekend is an excellent fund raiser for our school. Hopefully you can be a part of one, the other, or both! I hope to see you this weekend.

Lutheran Schools Week
It must be the first week of March because Lutheran Schools Week is upon us. Next week is full of activities for students and parents alike. Check the list that has gone home with the past newsletters - and probably attached to the school newsletter that you'll get today in your inbox.

Wednesday is visitation day, so maybe you can be a part of our lessons. Don't think you can sit in back and not answer any questions! Lunch for 4th graders begins after coming in from recess at 11:35 and continues to around 12:10 or 12:15.

Midterm Signature Forms
Midterms came home earlier this week. If you haven't returned your signature form, please send it in on Monday.

The Upcoming Week
Memory - At Home: Q3W6 Slip At School: 3rd Article Meaning "In the same way..." to "...all believers." 3rd Article Meaning "On the Last Day..." to the end. Extra Credit: 3rd Article and Meaning, All.
Reading - Keep working on 39 Clues, Book 3. We have had great lessons on deciphering new words and making judgments about characters actions and decisions.
English - Finish adjectives, begin verbs. Test late in the week.
Math - Lessons 66-70.
Social Studies - We will begin studying the South Central States.
Science - Finish up the textbook information about the Solar System. Then we're going to create our own planets. More details later.
Spelling - No list.

Midterms Today

Midterms are coming home today. They are, once again, in sealed envelopes. They're sealed when they leave the room...they ought to be sealed when they reach home. As I mention to the students, grades are for me, the student, and parents. Nobody should be comparing grades.

And I read this out loud as I typed it, so they know the message is coming home. :-)

Monday, 2/23 News

Here's a few quick updates and reminders:

• This Wednesday is Ash Wednesday. We will be celebrating the beginning of Lent with worship at church at 9:00. Everyone is welcome to attend and worship with us.
• Auction Tickets - If you are planning on attending the auction this weekend but haven't purchased your tickets yet, please do so today or tomorrow if possible. Auction organizers need to get a head count to the Ridges on Tuesday, and the more tickets that are purchased by that time, the more accurate the count will be.
• Butterbraid Sale - People have been asking when those delicious Butterbraids would be for sale again, and the answer is this week! Order forms will be coming home shortly. Students in grades 5-8 can use their proceeds towards their class trip in 8th grade. The proceeds from students in grades K4-4 will be split between the school and the students' tuition payments - 50% of the profits will go toward each.

Quick News Update, 2/20

There's only a few minutes before the kids are back from gym, so I'll make this brief.

• The music night at the Lincoln pool has been postponed until March 19.
• The orchestra today was super cool. We heard music from all sorts of movies including E.T., The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, and a 1945 Hitchcock film.
• In exactly one month - four weeks from today - is the Andrew Peterson author visit and concert. Tickets are now available. I'm biased, but you don't want to miss it.
• One week to purchase Celebration Auction tickets for Saturday, February 28.
• Thanks to everyone who donated to the class auction basket or has donated any other way to the auction or Funfest. Both events are shaping up to be excellent once again.

Spelling Words UNIT 23: addition, sadness, lovable, endless, handful, plentiful, breathless, happiness, solution, careful, function, stillness Extra Words: information, celebration, capable, available

Memory Assignments:

• Last part of the 2nd Article's Meaning (carried over from this week.)
• The Third Article
• The Third Article Meaning "What does this mean?" to "...the true faith."

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Friday News, 2/13

Field Trip
The fourth graders have the opportunity to see the orchestra in Stevens Point next week on Friday. There is no cost for the trip. It's not just a concert, but the conductor takes time to explain what is happening so kids understand more about how an orchestra concert works.

We need volunteers to drive. At this point, Mr. Altis and I are driving. There are also two parents who have already volunteered. Based on numbers, I believe we still need one more driver to take 4 kids.

Me - 5 kids
Mr. Altis - 3 kids
Parent - 3 kids
Parent - 3 kids

A permission slip is coming home with your child today. We will leave school at 10:00 and return around 12:30. We will eat lunch when we return.

No School on Monday
Monday is a professional day for teachers - faculty meetings, etc. See you on Tuesday for a short week.

Skate City...Again? Yes, Again!
The PTC has reserved Skate City for all Immanuel Students on Monday from 1-4. The cost is $4, and an additional $1 for skate rental.

Upcoming Choir Events
A note went home earlier this week concerning upcoming choir events, but here's the list:
1. Sunday, March 8 - Sing at St. Lukes, 10:30 worship service. Meet in the bastment at 10:15.
2. Sunday, March 15 - Sing at Immanuel, 8:00 service.
3. Palm Sunday, April 5 - Sing at Immanuel, 10:30 service.
4. Tuesday, March 3 - Swimming at Lincoln pool. This is for all students in any music program.

Spelling Words
Unit 22: families, worried, ugliest, funnier, happily, easily, heavier, earlier, tiniest, supplied, luckily, relied EXTRA WORDS: activities, countries, goodies, applied BONUS WORDS: enemies, hurriedly

Memory
At Home: Q3W4 Slips
At School: The Second Article, Meaning Part 1, and Meaning Part 2.

Book Order Part II

If you wish to write a check for the book order, please make your check payable to the book order company - Scholastic. If ordering from both orders, one check for the total is fine. Thanks!

Monday News Updates, 2/9

Skate City on Thursday
Questions have come up about scooters at Skate City. Yes, Skate City allows children to bring in scooters instead of skates. Yes, students may bring in their scooters, store them in their lockers (most fold up, correct?) during the day, and use them at Skate City if they prefer scooters over skates or are uncomfortable with skates. Scooters shouldn't be used in or around the school, however, but I'm sure I don't need to remind everyone of that...

Book Orders
We missed the January book order due to the book fair, so I am sending January and February home today. These will be due this Friday, Febrary 13. As always, here are some I can recommend or know something about.

January
Lost and Found by Andrew Clements
Boys vs. Girls Pack by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
School Days Pack by Andrew Clements
No Talking by Andrew Clements
Newbery Authors Collection - I've read 6 of the 8 and they're all pretty good.
The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis
Don't Bump the Glump by Shel Silverstein
Island Pack by Gordon Korman
Flush by Carl Hiaasen - a future read aloud book

February
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw by Jeff Kinney
Julia Gillian and the Art of Knowing by Alison McGhee
Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis
Lincoln: A Photobiography by Russell Freedman
Runny Babbit: A Billy Sook by Shel Silverstein
Kidnapped Pack by Gordon Korman - This is the sequel to the On the Run series.

As always, there are plenty of other ones that look good. I mentioned Skeleton Creek in class, but I haven't read it yet. It's an interesting concept - part book, part movie. As you read the book, a character sends video updates to the author. These videos are available online. BUT, the "book trailer" that I watched was very creepy, so I don't know if I can recommend it until I read it.

Friday, Feb 6, Newsletter Updates

Before School Procedures
This is just a reminder of our before school procedures for students who arrive before the 8:25 bell. Bus riders are to go immediately to the cafeteria. Students who walk or are dropped off are to wait outside the office doors or, if the weather isn't cooperating, go to the cafeteria. This is just a general reminder - not anything directed at fourth graders in particular.

Class Auction Basket
There's still time to donate to the class auction beach basket. If you wish to donate, please send in your donation on Monday.

FunFest Raffle Tickets
Raffle tickets are coming home today with the youngest child in the family. The FunFest raffle is a huge part of our fund raising on Celebration Weekend. More tickets are available in the office if needed. Please return the money and ticket stubs and any unsold tickets to the office.

Permission Slips for Valentine's Skate City Day
Permission slips were handed out earlier this week for our Valentines party at Skate City. Please return them as soon as possible. Thanks. The cost is $5.

Animal Trivia
Do you listen to animal trivia on WFHR at 7:40 in the morning? Winners get a free smoothie and wrap from Tropical Smoothie Cafe in the Rapids Mall, and each month a class is randomly drawn from all the winners. January's winner is...our class! And, to the best of my knowledge, only Kyra was a winner in January. Whew! Thanks Kyra. Megan has already won in February, so we have one entry in this month's drawing. Give it a try - WFHR at 7:40 in the morning.

Speaking of Trivia...
I don't know if I've mention this ... eh-hem ... or not, but school is having a trivia contest one week from today. It really will be lots of fun. Pizza, pop, great music, fun company, and a friendly little competition. So far there are 6 fourth graders registed on teams that I remember. Are you planning on being here?

Memory
Next week we are doing the last part of the First Article (starting with "He defends me..."). Students also have the opportunity to say the whole thing for extra credit. Also coming home is Q3W3 slips.

Spelling
Lesson 21: nonstop, replaced, inactive, refill, incorrect, rethink, nonfat, reread, retell, return, incomplete, repay Extra Words: nonfiction, nonsense, indirect, independent

News, News, News, 2/4/09

Valentine's Day
Instead of a Valentine's Day party, students in grades K-4 will have the opportunity to go Skate City on Thursday, February 12. Permission slips are coming home today. We thought it might be a welcome change to our freezing cold winter. The cost is $5. This includes admission, skates, soda, and ice cream.

Students may still hand out valentines, but with the cost of the trip, students can cut down on the ooey-gooey goodness that often gets attached to valentines. We'll make bags for distributing them and hand them out on Friday, February 13. We won't have a full-on classroom party here at school. Room parents, you are welcome to help with the activities at Skate City.

Orchestra Field Trip
Mr. Altis has arranged a great opportunity for fourth grade to attend the orchestra in Stevens Point at the Sentry Theater on Friday, February 20. We don't have a permission slip ready yet. We just wanted to let you know about the trip. The cost is free if we have parent volunteer drivers and don't take a bus. I'll drive, but are there any other volunteers willing to take some fourth graders and attend the orchestra? We'll leave here around 10:00 and return between 12:30 and 1:00. Due to the time of the trip, we're still trying to figure out if we'll all need cold lunches or if hot lunch will work.

Watch the Daily Tribune on Saturday...Hopefully
Information about Immanuel's Caldecott Award will be in Saturday's paper, space permitting. Otherwise there should be something next week. Keep your eyes peeled!

Camp Luther
Scrappy from Camp Luther was here today leading chapel. All students received 2009 summer camp brochures. Personally, I hope every kid goes to camp. (And Camp Luther has a program entitled Every Kid to Camp to try and ensure all kids can attend.) Speaking from experience, I've been there every summer since the summer after 1st grade, and Camp Luther is one of the big reasons I'm doing what I do today.

Friday, 1/30 Newsletter Updates

I just typed the date in the Title box and thought, "Is it really the end of January already? Are we really a week into the third quarter already?" Yes, and Yes. Here's some news of note:

Report Cards Coming Home Today
Once again, report cards are in sealed envelopes and should be when they get to you. Grades aren't for comparing, unless you're comparing your own first quarter and second quarter grades. Please send back the signature form as soon as possible.

Trivia Contest - A 125th Anniversary Special Event
You may have heard something about some trivia contest thingy we're doing here at school. It's Friday, February 13, from 6:00-8:30. It'll have questions from all over the place - movies, music, current events, TV, school, Bible, sports. Anything's fair game. There will be a lot of laughs, a lot of great music, and we'll even throw in some prizes. Most of the questions are off-the-head stuff, but some may need some quick research.

Basically, it's a big get together for anybody and everybody from school that promises to be a fun time. Get some kids together. Get some parents together. Have some fun! Registration starts Monday, and forms are coming home today.

Auction Basket
We're officially less than a month from the 3rd Annual Celebration Weekend including the Celebration Auction and Spring FunFest. Anyone have any comments on what needs to be in a beach basket? Let me know. Our suggested donation for the class basket is $3-$5 per family.

Valentine's Day
The upper grades (5th-8th) started a tubing tradition for Valentine's Day last year. They are continuing that this year. The younger grades thought they should get in on the act, so we are planning a skating day. Thursday, February 12 from 1-3 has been reserved for our Kindergartners through 4th graders at Skate City. Students may still hand out Valentines, but we won't have a class party. Instead it's a skating party. Keep an eye out for further information.

It's Reenrollment Time for 2009-2010
Have you been thinking about next school year? We here at school have. Reenrollment has begun. Information was presented at the parent meeting last week. Do you have any questions? Any concerns? Let me know and I'll do what I can to answer them OR I'll find someone who can. I'm looking to talk to all fourth grade families over the next week or two, just to check in, about reenrollment and/or any other questions you may have. Thanks!

There are lot's of papers coming home tonight - graded work, notes, Scrip forms, etc. Be sure your fourth graders empties his/her take-home folder for you. Have a great weekend!

Books, Books, Books!

I love this time of day. It is absolutely silent in the room right now. Seriously. Everyone, except me, unfortunately, is reading. Silently. I think I could announce there was a fire and about half of them wouldn't even hear me.

Anyways, some quick notes, all book related, and then I'm off to do some reading conferences.

The Book Fair

Immanuel's book fair will run through Tuesday. It will close up for the last time at 4:30 on Tuesday. There will be time after school to shop before the Caldecott ceremony, and Tuesday before and after school.

Our Caldecott Activity - TONIGHT!!!

Tonight, tonight, tonight is the night, 4:00 in Kuechle Hall, where we decide what is the best picture book for kids from the past year. All twenty of the books we evaluated will be available for you to look at. Ask you kids what they liked. Ask them what books should make the finals in their opinion (they don't know the final three yet!). Ask them why. You'll be amazed at some of their responses. We hope to see you there.

The Real Caldecott Medal Ceremony
I posted on this earlier in the week, but here's a repeat reminder about Monday's webcast of the ceremony:

Also, on Monday, January 26, the actual Caldecott Award will be announced, along with the Newbery Medal and numerous other awards given by the American Library Association. The press conference can be watched live online at this link. (It is not live yet. This alternate link will get you to the webcast also.)

For more information about the awards from the official website, see the following links:

Newbery Medal: Click Here.

Caldecott Medal: Click Here.

P.S. Didn't believe me about the reading? Check this out! (I have some more I might post later.)

Tuesday Newsletter Updates

Tomorrow's Chapel Service
Chapel will begin at 8:50 tomorrow, led by the fourth graders. Everyone is welcome to come and worship with us. Chapel goes until 9:30.

Geography Bee
The Geography Bee, originally scheduled for after chapel tomorrow, has been moved back one week. It will now be on Wednesday, January 28 after chapel. We have not yet determined our class representatives.

Pancake Supper
Parents volunteering for the pancake supper on Thursday evening may take their children to Cougar Kids for child care if it is needed. Please note, this is for volunteering parents. Also, please contact Miss Dian before noon tomorrow if you wish to use the service.

Caldecott Award
Friday night after school is the Caldecott Award ceremony. All families are welcome. We'll start at 4:00 with a last rereading of the finalists. After discussion, students will be asked to vote on a favorite. Then we will have a student-led press conference announcing the winner. More information is coming home today in your child's take-home folder.

Also, on Monday, January 26, the actual Caldecott Award will be announced, along with the Newbery Medal and numerous other awards given by the American Library Association. The press conference can be watched live online at this link. (It is not live yet. This alternate link will get you to the webcast also.)

For more information about the awards from the official website, see the following links:
Newbery Medal: Click Here.
Caldecott Medal: Click Here.

Monday's Back to School Announcements

Tomorrow Night's Parent Meeting
Please plan to attend tomorrow night's parent meeting. The meeting starts at 7:00, but come a few minutes early if you can to sign in and fill out a name tag. Mr. Betts will share information about:

• This school year
• Next school year
• National Lutheran School Accreditation vision for the future plan
• Enrollment
• Programs offered at Immanuel
• Operating Plan
• Technology
• Communtiy Involvement
• Professional Development
• SCRIP
• School Calendar
• And other stuff I'm forgetting...

It will be a sort of State of the School Address, and effort to keep Immanuel families informed about all we do at Immanuel and all it takes to keep our ministry running smoothly. Thanks

Chapel on Thursday

Fourth graders will be leading chapel on Wednesday. We've streamlined our plan a bit so we can be prepared in only two days. I had originally planned to use Thursday and Friday for preparation as well. Nevertheless, it promises to be a memorable worship opportunity.

Friday Night's Caldecott Activity

Grades 4K-4 will gather on Friday night to choose our winner. We've been reading and rereading and discussing and voting and rereading again...all to select the best picture book for kids from the past year. That's big work! And Friday from 4:0o-5:00 is the culmination of all that work. All families and students are invited. Please see the note attached to the school newsletter for more information. Another note will come home this week with more details.

Thursday Night - The Pancake Supper

We may need to take some days off after this busy week. Wow! Thursday night is the annual pancake supper. Hopefully you plan to attend and eat the best pancakes this side of the river. They come from far and wide for these cakes, they do, and you won't want to miss it! Have you decided to volunteer? Come early, eat late. Eat early, stay late. Your help is needed and greatly appreciated. Thanks!

No School on Thursday

Word just came down from the corner office that there is no school tomorrow due to the FREEEEEZING cold temperatures. Stay home, put on an extra pair of fuzzy socks, find your best/worst comfortable sweatshirt, and stay warm. Hopefully - hopefully! - everyone has a silent reading book...or two.

See you on Friday for Pajama and Movie Day. (Hmmm. Maybe we ought to change that to Twice-As-Much-Work-Day to make up for Thursday. Should we put it to a vote?)

Auction Basket and Science Assignment

Two completely unrelated topics to let you know about today.

ILS Celebration Auction
The annual ILS Celebration Auction, part of Celebration Weekend which includes the Fun Fest and the beginning of Lutheran Schools Week, is coming up fast. The auction is on Saturday evening, February 28.

We are continuing our tradition of each class donating a basket to be auctioned off that evening. This year the fourth grade is doing a beach basket. Trying to organize which people should send what item can be difficult, and in this case, could result with our basket having four tubes of SPF50.

A parent has volunteered to do the purchasing for our basket. The suggested donation for the class is $3-5 per family, but please donate whatever you feel is best. Remember, all donations go directly to the school. Last year the weekend earned over $40,000. The fourth grade basket earned (if I remember correctly) $200 by itself, more than doubling the amount donated toward its purchase.

Also, please send your ideas for a beach basket. What needs to go to the beach? What essential item must come along in order to make a trip to beach complete?

Today's Science Assignment
Today we took our science test. It's a take home test, and you'll probably see it tonight. It's a bit...different...from most tests.

I wanted to do something other than multiple choice, fill in the blank, and short answer, so I wrote a test. It's a little silly, and I told the fourth graders to have fun with it. The questions are designed for them to be creative, but also require them to know information from the chapter.

For example, one question asks what kind of volcano they would like to visit on vacation. There are three tour companies listed. Would they want to tour a dormant, active, or violently erupting volcano? I told them there's no correct answer, but their explanations about why they'd like to visit one and not the other two will show me whether or not they understand the different types of volcanoes.

I encouraged them to be creative, but at the same time to be sure their answers were clear and based on good information. They started slowly, but seemed to get more comfortable as they wrote. We'll see tomorrow, I guess.

Newsletter for 1/9/09

Calendar Dates
There are tons of events coming up on the Immanuel Lutheran School calendar. Here's a (hopefully) complete list:

Monday, January 12 -
Tuesday, January 13 -
Wednesday, January 14 - School spelling bee after chapel
Thursday, January 15 -
Friday, January 16 - PJ and Movie Day. Planned by leadership council as a middle-of-winter activity, students may wear comfortable winter pajamas, and we'll watch a movie in the afternoon.

Monday, January 19 -
Tuesday, January 20 - Parent meeting for school families in Kuechle Hall from 7:00-8:00.
Wednesday, January 21 - Fourth Grade leads chapel at 9:00. School geography bee after chapel.
Thursday, January 22 - Pancake Supper
Friday, January 23 - Grades 4K-4 Caldecott Award Ceremony. See the attachment to the school newsletter today and the note coming home with students.

Sunday, January 25 - Consecration Sunday at Immanuel. One worship service at school, followed by lunch.


Congratulations!
Well done, Treighton and Megan, for being the 4th grade representatives to the school spelilng bee. The bee is next Wednesday after chapel with representatives from 3rd-8th grade. A well done also goes out to Zack, Kyra, Katy, and Kaitlyn for doing their best.

Thank You
It seems like a long time since Christmas, but it can't ever be too late to say thank you. I made a special trip to Barnes and Noble to use my gift cards already. To everyone who gave so generously to the class gift and for the well thought-out personal gifts, thank you.