The Spanish language can be heard in our classroom as naturally as we hear words and phrases being said in English. In our room, Ms. Diana is the teacher delivering all of her lessons in Spanish.
Ms. Diana’s lessons mirror the lessons given to the children in English.
the seasons, in Spanish
If a child has done a math lesson using the small bead stair, they will also be given the same lesson using Spanish nomenclature.
“One” becomes “uno” and “two” becomes “dos.” In the process of using the Spanish language to respond to Ms. Diana, not only are the children reinforcing the core lessons, but they are utilizing their second language skills in a practical and useful way.
Spanish bingo.
Many of the children enjoy the lyrical sounds of the Spanish language as they learn numerous songs from Ms. Diana, and listen to her give instructions such as “Es hora de almuerzo” (it is time for lunch) and “lavarse sus manos” (wash your hands).
Research confirms that immersion in a second language when a child is young, often makes it easier for the child to acquire the fundamentals of using the second language.
Learning about bats.
Author Ronald Kotulak observes, “During the first three years of life, the foundations for thinking, language, vision, attitudes, aptitudes, and other characteristics are laid down,” he says in Inside the Brain.
completion of the 100 Board
Consequently, it would be a waste not to use a child’s natural ability to learn during his or her most vital years, when learning a second language is as easy as learning the first.
Since 50 percent of the ability to learn is developed in the first years of life and another 30 percent by age eight, early childhood development programs have the opportunity to encourage early learning and development.”
Some of the common words and phrases we use in our classroom are:
hola : “hi”
Como esta? : “How are you?
por favor: “please”
de nada: “you are welcome”
gracias: “thanks”
con permiso: ”excuse me”
Como se dice: “how do you say?”
cuantos? : “how many?”
Walking the “Road of Peace” and thoughtful action
Caring for the outside classroom.
REMINDERS
NO SCHOOL, Friday 10/17 due to Teacher in service.
Native Pride dancers will visit our school on Monday, 10/27.
International Children’s Day will take place on Thursday, 10/30. It is a half day with dismissal at 11:15. The theme in our room will be celebrating the country of MEXICO. We encourage our children to dress up using clothing found in Mexico (FYI: the colors of the Mexican flag are red, white and green) or any culture they would like to represent.
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NO SCHOOL on Friday, 10/31 due to Nevada Day. Happy Halloween!
We are grateful to the families who recently donated books to our classroom, GRACIAS!
A big thank you to Sophia and Steven and their families for providing delicious snacks and beautiful flowers for our classroom.
Matching the continents
tweezing dried corn cobs.
Using the multiplication board.
Please review the following letter:
October 14, 2014
Re: Active Threat Drill
Dear FMS Families –
We currently perform regularly scheduled fire drills and shelter in place. However, we will also begin monthly active threat drills starting in October as part of our continuing safety initiatives on campus. The purpose of the active threat drill is to prepare the students to urgently seek shelter and protection in the event of a violent incident or intruder on campus. The drill will be conducted as follows:
- “Test Test Test” will be announced campus wide through the intercom system
- Teachers will direct students to quietly hide in bathrooms, closets, or other protected areas and remain out of sight
- An admin staff member and/or law enforcement personnel will sweep the campus to ensure the classrooms are secured quickly and effectively
- Students and staff will be directed to resume activity after the drill is completed
Please note, we will not be discussing specifics with the children regarding shootings, guns and/or weapons of any kind. Teachers are identifying the drill more in line with “hide and seek” or “quick and quiet”, especially for our younger students. However, it is highly likely our older students will know the reasoning behind the drill. Our primary goal is to stress the urgency and quickness of the lock down process with staff and students alike. Lastly, we will be sending you a one-time “test emergency text” when the first drill is conducted on October 28th only. The text will be clearly identified as a “test.” Subsequent drills will not be announced in advance and “test” texts will not be sent.
It is unfortunate we have to take such precautionary steps, but preventative measures are necessary and important. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Jason Russell, CEO and President of Secure Education Consultants, may also be contacted at 616-308-7626 or emailed at [email protected] to address any concerns.
Respectfully,
Karen Kolb
Executive Director
A resounding round of applause to our Parent Teacher Organization for creating a wonderful harvest festival!!
