HOLIDAY SPIRIT ABOUNDS

Wow!!! As I walked around the school on Friday I could feel holiday spirit in the air. The students were smiling, teachers were laughing and parents were enjoying. Our holiday parties were wonderful and I want to thank all of you for bringing such joy to our students. Teachers enjoy your break - relax and unwind. Parents enjoy the time with your children - play and have fun. I wish you all a happy holiday season and we'll see you again on January 7th!

THE GIFT OF READING

Tomorrow every student in our school will be receiving a hard cover copy of the book, The Bear Who Wanted to be a Bear. The Tzu Chi Foundation who utilizes Prairieview on Sundays for their Chinese school has graciously donated these books to us. Please read this wonderful gift with your students over winter break. I've put their address below if you'd like to send a thank you.

Chong Hsieh

Tzu Chi Foundation USA

6601 S Cass Avenue, Unit G

Westmont, IL 60559

THANK YOU PTO

Yesterday afternoon was the teacher cookie exchange thrown by our wonderful PTO moms. Thank you for all of the delicious cookies, treats and beverages. It was so nice to have a moment to sit down, socialize and just relax. Thank you for taking time out of your own busy holiday schedules to make such a special afternoon for us. We greatly appreciate it!

HOLIDAY SPIRIT

After finishing spelling tests and math work, the students were treated to a day filled with holiday spirit. The students watched the Polar Express while lounging in their pajamas. Teachers also joined in the fun by wearing their pjs! What a festive bunch!

UPCOMING WEEK IN REVIEW

Tuesday, December 18th - 3:30 - PTO Teacher Cookie Exchange

Wednesday, December 19th - 3:15 - District PTO Meeting at LV

Friday, December 21st - Holiday Parties/Last Day of School before break

PAJAMA DAY

Just a reminder that tomorrow, Friday, December 14th is Pajama Day. We are celebrating our November reading success by wearing pajamas and watching and/or reading the Polar Express. Students are to wear their pajamas to school and can bring slippers with them, but should wear regular shoes to school. Also, Saturday is market day pickup at Lakeview from 11 - noon. Please remember to pick up your orders promptly.

GREAT JOB!

Our lockdown drill proceeded very smoothly today thanks to the efforts of our staff and students. Everyone was well organized and followed procedures to a tee!!! Thank you all for your hard work.

This weekend was an exciting one for me, we adopted another greyhound. Her racing name is Peter's Sky and since greyhounds don't know their names we get to choose a new one for her. We've had some suggestions, but haven't chosen one yet so any ideas are welcome. She is not replacing our beloved Dotty, but she will be filling in an empty hole we've had since September. If you are ever looking to acquire a dog and want a gentle, loving breed without the work of a puppy, please think about adopting one of these wonderful dogs. Hope you all had a great weekend.

I will be out of the office tomorrow for an Administrator's Academy, but will be in touch with the school if anyone needs me.

CHANGE IN PLANS

Unfortunately we had four teachers out sick today, so we cancelled the lockdown drill. We need the teachers to practice as much as the students so we have rescheduled the drill for Monday, December 10th.

Reminders for Next Week:
Thursday, December 13th - PTO Meeting at 3:15

Friday, December 14th - Polar Express Pajama Day (Wear your favorite pajamas, but dress appropriately for the weather)!

Saturday, December 15th - Market Day Pick-Up 11:00 - 12:00 at LV

Have a wonderful weekend!!!

LOCKDOWN DRILL

This Friday, December 7th we will be practicing a school lockdown drill at 1:30. Teachers are explaining that this is a procedure that we have to do to protect ourselves in case a dangerous stranger ever comes into the building. Students will be told that this is similar to the tornado drills, fire drills and evacuation drill we have already practiced; we need to practice so we are ready if someone dangerous should ever enter the school. They will all reassure the students that this has never happened, but we need to practice just to be safe. I know this can be a scary thing for kids, but we are taking every precaution to make sure that they are not scared and that they know exactly what to do. On Wednesday, December 12th morning kindergarten and e.c. classes will have their practice. If you have any questions, please feel free to call or email me. Thank you and have a great evening!

DON'T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF

At this time of year, it is so easy to feel overwhelmed. We get bogged down with cold weather reports and holiday stress. However, this is the time of year where we should step back from these things and enjoy the small pleasures. A child's face as he watches his first snowfall or plays with snow for the first time. A puppy who has never had to walk in white stuff that sticks to his paws. Excited children wondering what Santa will bring or what gifts they'll receive for Hanukkah. Instead of dreading family visits be thankful for each and every moment you have with them (laugh at the crazy stories when you're alone in January)! Take moments to relax, reflect and enjoy this glorious time of year!