Internet Safety

These 3rd graders from Mrs. Rathbone's class are working in pairs at the computers doing an online Internet Safety Quiz. It's a fun activity that reviews and reinforces the ideas we've discussed during some of our Library classes. This online quiz is used as a self-assessment; then they will have a test to demonstrate their knowledge. As I tell them, it's mostly common sense.

A student once asked me why we were covering Internet Safety in Library classes. Not only is it part of our curriculum and standards, but I think all of us know it doesn't hurt to hear the messages about keeping yourself safe in many different places. Believe me, the students in 3rd and 4th grade always have plenty of questions and comments!

We keep it simple and do not go into horror stories they may have heard on the news. The main talking points come from these "FBI Internet Safety Tips" (c2003):

#1 Never give out personal information
#2 Never write to someone who makes you feel uncomfortable, even if you know who they are.
#3 Never meet someone or have them visit you without your parent's permission.
#4 Tell a trusted adult right away if you read or see anything on the Internet that makes you feel uncomfortable.
#5 Remember that people online may not be who they say they are.

Don't we all hope our students grow up to make good, common-sense decisions about being online?

Reading Week Photos

Reading Week 2012 is over so enjoy these last few photos.

More Guest Readers included Mrs. Nancy Ferri, our Library Clerk plus Office Staff Mrs. Haney and Mrs. Barber. Thanks to all who shared their time and talents with our students in the Library.


Finally, the week ended this afternoon with an all-school silent reading session in the hallways. This is always a favorite event of mine and it was as good as usual. Keep Reading!

More Reading Week Fun

More scenes from Reading Week:

Monday found student teacher Jessica Fournier playing the part of Goldilocks - I hear she even had the 3 bears in Mrs. Healy's class! This photo of Ms. Fournier and Mrs. Katie Wright, Reading Coordinator, was taken outside my favorite place, the Library. Tuesday's Parade of Books was popular as usual with favorite books lining the hallways.

Today, Wednesday, featured a visit by local author and illustrator, Leslie Tryon. Ms. Tryon favored us with three assemblies, Grades 1&2, Grades 3&4 and then Kindergarten. Students in the youngest group came to the Library and enjoyed hearing a story plus seeing the model that Ms. Tryon created for a story. A fun time was had by all - thanks, PTO!

Great Start to Reading Week!

Reading Week began with a Monday visit from Superintendent Barry Ricci who was a Guest Reader in the Library with Mrs. Hershman's Kindergarten class. Looking at the photos, it's hard to say who's enjoying it more - Mr. Ricci or the kids!

Tuesday will feature a Parade of Books in the hallway; students may share a favorite book. Tomorrow will also find Assistant Superintendent Carol Blanchette as a Guest Reader in the Library.

Wednesday - our school will enjoy a visit from local author and illustrator Leslie Tryon. Thanks, PTO!

On Thursday, classes will display letters they have written as class projects.

The end of the day of Friday will culminate in our annual Reading in the Hallway.


It's all part of our weeklong celebration of reading at Charlestown School. Of course, in the Library every week is Reading Week.

Stay tuned for more scenes from Reading Week!