Dear Onondaga Road Families,
We have had an amazing first week back at school and our students did well getting back into their familiar routines. There is a positive energy in the building and there are many wonderful activities to share with you. Our students continue to impress us and it is amazing to see the daily examples of the growth they have made.
I want to remind our Grade 3 and Grade 4 parents and guardians that these students will be taking the NYS Math Assessment on Monday (5/6) and Tuesday (5/7). Please remember how important it is for our students to be well-rested and have a positive attitude on these testing days. We want them to view the assessments as a chance to demonstrate the progress they have made.
Liz Tiffany, Instructional Coach, came to visit all of our Grade 4 classrooms and talked to them about ways we can ensure that all students feel welcomed and affirmed at school. During her lesson, she had students describe some characteristics about potatoes and then groups were given an individual potato to observe. When she collected the potatoes back, students were able to identify which potato was theirs. She made the point that they can do that because of each potatoes' unique characteristics. Then students collectively came up with ideas on how they can ensure they consider everyone's unique characteristics and show respect to each other.
Our Grade 3 classes participated in a virtual field trip to learn more about the Silk Road and the spice trade to enrich their ELA curriculum. Students were able to learn more about the Age of Exploration from the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration.
Today we had a wonderful Buddy Day and our students got to interact with their buddies from other grade levels. The students read the book The Curious Gardener" which has a message about the positive impact that you can have on your community. Then students worked to plant vegetable and flower seeds together. These plants will eventually make their way into the Onondaga Road garden. We would like to thank our PTA for sponsoring this activity.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.
Respectfully,
Michelle Collier