It was kicked off by a trip to the St. Louis Science Center Planetarium.
We got to experience the night sky show, where our humorous guide, Jordan, showed us stars and constellations and how to find them in the night sky. The students were particularly impressed to see what the night sky would look like far out in the country, away from the light pollution of the city. The show was very interactive and our class was the only group of guests, aside from one man on the other side of the floor. We really knew our stuff! The students were able to identify major constellations, knew the myths behind them, and could name stars like Rigel found in Orion.
After the show, we had a few minutes to explore the exhibits about the International Space Station. Jordan came out and asked, "What school is this?"
I replied, "Captain Elementary in Clayton."
"This is the best class I have ever had at the Planetarium. They are the best-behaved and really know their stuff!"
What a high compliment to receive from a stranger. This group really is special.
Thursday, the PE teachers took us to Hidden Valley, where the students went through ski school and hit the slopes.
It was amazing to see how nerves melted into confidence over the course of the day. I got to observe an especially inspiring moment when one student was feeling discouraged and was seriously hoping to be able to sit out for the afternoon. Another student (an experienced skier), recognizing that the other was feeling deflated, asked if the student would join him through the ski school stations so they could ski together. This moment of empathy encompasses the most important mindset for learning. Without empathy, we lose our humanity. I'm so proud of these students! See all the pictures that Mrs. Belzer and I took here: http://www.claytonschools.net/Page/16861
Coming Attractions...
1/18 - No School in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
1/19 - Fun Adult Historical Fiction Book Club Meeting at 8:00am
1/23 - PTO Pancake Breakfast from 9-11 in the Cafeteria (Buy your tickets at the front office!)
1/26 - Fun Adult Historical Fiction Book Club Meeting at 8:00am (Last Meeting)
1/28 - 5th Grade Curriculum Night at Wydown Middle School from 7-8:30pm
1/29 - Mix It Up & Crazy Hat/Hair Day
1/30 - PTO Trivia Night at Immaculate Conception Church Hall from 7pm-midnight (Reserve your table right away!)
