Submitted by Mr. Stephen Waigand

Principal, Rock Port Elementary

December is upon us and holiday cheer is in the air! Our character word for December is compassion. Compassion is caring for others with kindness. In the spirit of the season our elementary student council has challenged each classroom to a door decorating contest. The theme of the contest is “Kindness is Warm.” We have some creative (and competitive) teachers and students walking our hallways. Now the tough part . . . judging 21 doors!

The Blue Jay Shop is back again this year and open for business! Donated items are collected throughout the year and set up in a store-type display. Students have an opportunity to shop for family members, wrap the gifts, and experience the true joy of “giving” this holiday season. I’m sure many of you reading this will be the beneficiary of said gifts . . . thank you for your support. The students enjoy being able to shop for loved ones.

The last Wednesday of the month is called “Workout Wednesday.” Teachers plan activities during the day that incorporate academics with physical exercise. This past month classroom teachers paired up with other grade levels for some fun, team building experiences. Watching the older students interact with the younger students would melt even a Grinch’s heart. Seeing the joy and excitement on the younger students faces when they are paired with a “big kid” is priceless. It is a win-win experience for all students involved.

Our elementary staff just finished up the book Energy Bus by Jon Gordon. The book reveals 10 secrets for approaching life and work with the kind of positive, forward thinking that leads to true accomplishment – both personally and professionally. We met in small groups to discuss the first half and then the second half of the book. Next semester we will begin looking at how we can incorporate these principles into our school and classrooms. We hope that you can feel that positive energy when visiting the school. More to come!

Upcoming events: S.T.E.M. Student Showcase (5:30 p.m.) and Elementary Music Program (7:00 p.m.) will be on December 17, Accelerated Reader Incentive Party for Reading on December 19. Stay connected with daily classroom and school updates, including our door decoration contest entries and overall winner on Twitter @RPBluejays. As always we strive to #LoveServeCare every day!

Love our students

Serve their academic needs

Care for the whole child.

Every Student, Every Day.