First Day Done

We're off to a smooth start the first day of school, with a minimum of tears...

Students are learning new procedures, refreshing on the rules, and getting started with the daily routines of listening, participating, and  learning.  

I think we'll all be tired tonight... I was ready for a nap by lunchtime!

Tomorrow I will meet classes for the first time this year.  I am looking forward to the Connect schedule change (4th grade goes first, then Kindergarten, 2nd, 1st, 3rd, then 5th).  Change keeps things interesting.  

We will begin with self-awareness activities in the upper grades.  I gave a lot of thought this summer to what our kids need.  I plan to guide our kids in focusing on their inner selves so they may think (and act) more reflectively.  Perhaps it will help them balance all the messages that bombard them about clothes, popularity, what's "cool", who's "in".  

The lower grades will be introduced to the self awareness theme in a lighter tone - beginning with fun stretching & relaxation moves, then a brief Power Point presentation to introduce them to the role of the school guidance counselor and character education.  We will finish with a fun "Questions" game where students will share briefly about themselves, and get a chance to do some humourous activities to lighten the mood.