Dear Parents,

As we navigate the journey of guiding our children through their elementary school years, it’s important that we recognize the importance of nurturing them as whole individuals. Our role extends beyond academics; it encompasses fostering their holistic development, embracing their unique talents, and instilling in them a love for learning that transcends the classroom walls. 

In today’s fast-paced world, where technology often dictates our interactions, it’s easy to overlook the significance of engaging our children in activities that promote physical, emotional, and social well-being. The benefits of such engagement cannot be overstated. Participating in after-school activities, whether it be sports, arts, or service learning, not only enhances their academic performance but also cultivates essential life skills such as teamwork, creativity, and empathy.

Encouraging our children to explore their interests outside of the traditional curriculum fosters a sense of belonging and purpose. By participating in sports, they learn the value of discipline, resilience, and fair play. Through artistic expression, they unleash their creativity and develop a profound appreciation for beauty and self-expression. Engaging in service learning projects instills in them a sense of responsibility towards their community, nurturing empathy and compassion.

Creating a supportive environment at home where learning is celebrated and curiosity is encouraged sets the stage for our children to flourish academically and emotionally. Take the time to engage in meaningful conversations about their day, inquire about their interests, and provide opportunities for them to pursue their passions outside of school.

Sharing in their learning journey not only strengthens our bond with them but also reinforces the importance of education as a lifelong pursuit. Whether it’s reading together, exploring nature, or engaging in hands-on experiments, try to make learning a collaborative and enriching experience for the entire family. Every child is unique, with their own set of strengths and interests waiting to be discovered and nurtured. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where all children feel valued and empowered to shine, we not only boost their self-confidence but also cultivate a sense of unity and belonging within the school community.

Let us commit to encouraging our children to participate in school life as whole individuals, nurturing their physical, emotional, and intellectual growth. Together, let us create an environment where every child feels supported, inspired, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.

Sincerely,

Leia Kraeuter

Elementary Principal

SCHOOL LANYARDS

All grades 3-5 students should wear their lanyards and ID cards while on campus. The lanyards can be housed in the classroom and they can wear them throughout the day and leave them in the classroom when they go home. 

DRESS CODE

Please note that GAA will be reigniting attention to our dress code policy. 

• All PK-5 students are issued a GAA uniform that should be worn daily. 

• PE kits and team shirts are suitable for Fridays and PE days. All students must wear safe and suitable shoes for school every day.

• PE days require closed toe athletic shoes, please. Crocs, open toed shoes, cleats are not suitable for any school day. 

• Please ensure that children are attending school daily in the GAA approved dress code including smart, safe, and sensible shoes. 

WATER INTAKE AND ORAL HYGENE

The students have also been inquiring into measurment in math. We had lots of fun measuring the length of different places around our school 

Grade 1D has been busy being mathematicians and inquiring into all types of measurements! One aspect of measurement we explored was data. Students have begun to take surveys to collect data; and then, interpreting and analyzing that data. As part of our learning we have learned how to create different types of graphs and read the graphs to answer questions. Today students used their knowledge of data to graph a yummy item - M&Ms! They had so much fun graphing their M&Ms and then eating them. Measurement skills help us describe the world around us in accurate, standard ways that others can understand; so, try measuring lengths, weight, and information at home with your family!

Manchester Fitness Healthy Lifestyle Initiative

On January 23rd, 5A received a special visit from Manchester City. We learned how to stay healthy in many different ways like doing exercises, eating healthy food, and getting enough sleep. 5A also learned that fruits and vegetables are healthy, but if you eat too many fruits and vegetables it could be bad for your health.

After talking about being and staying healthy, our class went outside and got some exercise.

We played many different football minigames, such as penalty shootout and king of the ring. 

Our class loved this experience and we had a lot of fun. Hamdan Alzaabi said, “I enjoyed the Manchester City session and I learned that it is important to have a good sleep to be healthy and ready for a new day!”

Class Buddies

On Mondays, our class, 5A, goes to PrekA so we can join the Class Buddies initiative. We get to do fun activities and play exciting games with the little ones, showing them leadership and responsibility while teaching them new things, like being kind and caring! A thought from Daniel Mines of 5A: 'It's hard and fun! We get to show the kids what's right and wrong.'

We also learnt from them, like staying active and being creative!

What a fun-filled month we’ve had in the PreK-Grade 1 Library! We held a Mock Caldecott over the past three weeks. We read books that were possible contenders to win this year’s coveted 2024 Caldecott Award. The Caldecott Award is given to the preceding year’s “most distinguished American picture book for children”. This past week, students voted for their favorite to win the award. The favorite for the KG2 & Grade 1 classes actually won this year’s Caldecott Award! The title of the book is Big by Vashti Harrison.  They were so excited when they found out that their choice actually won. We celebrated this event with gold star balloons in honor of the golden Caldecott stickers, of course! 

During the week of February 5th-9th, all PreK-Grade 1 students may bring their teddy bear (or another favorite stuffy) to Library class in honor of Teddy Day. Since PreK students attend library twice a week, PreK A students will bring their teddy bears on Wednesday, February 7th. PreK B students will bring their teddy bears on Tuesday, February 6th. The students will enjoy participating in fun, literacy based teddy activities during their library classes next week! 

• February 3: TEDxYouth "Breaking Borders - Redefining Life" @1:00pm (tickets sold in Snack Shack)

• February 5-7: PreK, KG1, KG2 and Grade 1 Teddy Bear Party (during their library day)

• February 6: Parent Course Information Meeting for rising Grade 6: 2:15pm and 6:30pm

• February 7: Grades 1 & 2 Sports Day

• February 8: Grades 3, 4 & 5 Sports Day

• February 9: PreK, KG1, KG2 Sports Day

• February 9: Parent Coffee Morning for Grade 5 & 8 parents about 2024-2025 courses: 7:45am @GAAPA Room

• February 12-14: New-joiners and absentees official school photoshoot

• February 19-21: MID-TERM BREAK. NO SCHOOL

• February 23: Pizza and Popsicle Day by GAAPA and Booster Club

• February 28-29: Matilda Jr. Musical

• February 29: GAA Cook-A-Book Challenge