The Library - Central to the School

Hi, this photo shows how our library - at a pivotal corner - is a physical hub of Charlestown School. The corner makes it a central spot, especially for Grades 3 & 4, but for the entire school.

On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of this week our 4th graders spent their mornings doing NECAP Science testing. Testing is a prominent focus of education and the entire school gets involved, not just 4th Grade (or 3 & 4th in the Fall). Classroom teachers assume the primary role, but Reading Teachers, Math teachers, Resource and many others contribute to helping our students do well on the required assessments. My small part on those days is to put out the easel at the corner to remind everyone to help maintain a quiet testing environment.

The big picture is that all of the staff here contribute to teaching and learning at Charlestown School. Specials areas (Library, PE/Health, Art, Music) have their own learner standards. In addition, we try to reinforce good learner qualities and many times can integrate our work with classroom work. Paraprofessionals, custodians, Office Staff, and everyone else strive to help our students become lifelong learners. And, not just on test days!

May!

Somehow the last few weeks slipped by and I missed doing my weekly blog. We're already well into May which makes me think of our newest program:

wwwCharlestownFit

Many of you may remember Exercise Your Body/Exercise Your Mind. This program was created 7 years ago when I worked with Pat Fiske who was our Health&PE teacher. It was actually made to replace the old "TV Turn-Off" that had been done for several years. Well, now it's time to find a new program to promote healthy children and healthy families. Dr. Cathy Moffitt and I have planned and collaborated together to create wwwCharlestownFit. We wanted to try a month-long program that encourages wellness (healthy foods and activities), wholeness (well-rounded & creative) and wisdom (making good choices). This is the first year and we see it as a pilot to be developed and revised in the future.

The yellow papers that went home last week gave most of the information so I won't repeat it. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us via email, phone, or notes. Also, if you have ideas about tweaking this program for next year, they are most welcome.We value the input from families as we work to promote healthier habits for all of us. Have fun!