What a Week!!!

   As school weeks go this one was pretty crazy!  We began as most of you probably know with ISTEP issues.  I am very proud to say that the students handled this very well.  It was frustrating for all of us but the students really rallied and worked very hard when we did get to test.  We have finished the math and language arts part of the test but still have to do the social studies portion.  We will be finishing this next Friday.  All four fifth grade teams have field trips next week so that is why we are waiting until next Friday to finish.  The sixth grade will be testing Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday so our schedule will be modified to accommodate them.
    Today we had a guest from UPS that read a letter to us challenging our students to create something that can be used to ship fragile items that is cost effective.  Next Friday, we will be testing these "containers" by throwing them off of a high ladder in the loading dock of the school.  

     We spend some time today working on what we know and what we need to know for this project.  We are once again impressed at what these students come up with.  They decided as a group our next steps as to what they should do.  We let them choose their groups and start a plan today.  So, be prepared when they come home they may have some wild ideas!  Students will be working on these in school for three days next week with their chosen groups.  They may need to bring items from home to do this project.  We are excited to see what they come up with.
     This next week we have our field trip to Notre Dame.  We want to remind kids to wear good walking shoes as we will do a lot of walking that day.  Also, watch the weather and make sure they dress appropriately for the forecast.  This is a fun day but we want to make sure they are prepared.
   The end of the year is fast and furious.  We are hoping that they finish AR up strong so we can have fun without having to worry about that.  Have a great weekend!