October 11

It is with a heavy heart that I write this blog to inform you that POWER HOUR will no longer be a part of our curriculum. When I have good children boldly lie about doing their work just so they can participate, what does that tell me Power Hour is teaching them? When too many parents email and call telling me that their children don't want to come to school on Fridays because they don't get to come to Power Hour because they've been messing around and not completing assignments, that tells me Power Hour isn't worth it.  So-o-o-o POWER HOUR is no longer nor will it be the rest of the year. Friday afternoon will simply be a continuation of regular study.

For my more advanced children who need extra to continue their extended learning, I will start projects for them which they can work on any time they complete their regular core work early.

Many parents are worried that their children miss recess to finish work, even knowing that oodles of time is given to complete assignments. Please know that the children who are working at recess always take a lap around the playground and come huffing and puffing back into the room. THEY GET THEIR EXERCISE!!

Now on a lighter note:
• Remember that Harvest Holiday will be next Thursday, Friday, and Monday (17th, 18th, and 21st.) Tuesday school will resume.
• The students need an apple next Monday. We are going to be making shrunken-head witches.
• Thank you all for coming to parent teacher conference. It's always nice to get on the same page.
• Each Monday, attached to the spelling test, I will send home a bright pink paper informing you of the work that was accomplished the week before. The incomplete work will also be in your child's backpack. If you wish to keep your child current with the class, have your child complete the work at home.

I just know that next week will be better than today.
Carolyn Olenslager