Note from Francie 12/2/11
The first Friday of the month snuck up on me with the Thanksgiving holiday! Let’s plan on the parent coffee next Friday and I’ll also focus that note on an aspect of School Social Climate.
Today I want to celebrate the Cape Cod presentations given by Matt’s class last night. These presentations are a rite of passage and students anticipate them with excitement and a healthy dose of apprehension – but you would never know it. They presented their research without a hitch – speaking clearly and with good expression and using strong images and graphics.
Several weeks ago I wrote about the new Common Core Standards which Vermont and forty-five other states are in the process of adopting. In addition to Reading and Writing in the English Language Arts Standards a section has been added for Speaking and Listening. The goal of these standards is for students to be college and career ready at the end of high school and the kinds of communications skills (speaking and listening!) students learn as they prepare and give the Cape Cod presentations will stand them in good stead in classes at UVM or in the auto shop as they explain needed repairs to a customer.
There are two town events I’d like to call your attention to. On Wednesday evening a meeting was held to review the town’s response to Irene. Glenn Herrin, our new Emergency Management Director, facilitated a frank and open discussion. Some excellent ideas came out of this. Glenn will put his notes at the Town Office for all to review and comment on. Please stop by and take a look.
On Saturday night there will be a potluck dinner and square dance in the Outback in honor of all the folks who’ve worked so hard to rebuild the roads after Irene. It should be a lot of fun! All ages are welcome.
See you for coffee and conversation next Friday!
Francie
Posted: December 2nd, 2011 under Notes From Francie.