October 13, 2023
We can be Heroes!
We come from good people. At ST’a7mes school we use our strengths to support one another; we are all connected. We show kindness, treat others with dignity and respect. We care for people in need. We are connected to and we represent our family, ancestors, and community. We work with exertion and diligence.
Ha7lh Skwayel Families -
We’ve had some great weather this week, and are appreciating the beauty that surrounds our school yard. Also the beauty that is coming from within. As I write this note I can hear Roxy’s clear strong voice and the beating of the drum calling all the kids in to join in on song.
Student Led Conferences and Caregiver Teacher Meetings happened on Wednesday this week. Students were busy practicing and preparing to show off what they’ve been learning. It was nice to chat and catch up with families as they waited for their appointments in the parents’ lounge. Thank you also to those who attended our PAC Meeting.
Learning Expeditions Mixalh were at Alice Lake Longhouse this week to kick off their salmon project. Students and staff shared stories of their connections to salmon. It was heart warming to hear many stories of how first encounters with salmon included core memories with friends and family. Roxy led the group in drumming and song.
Partners in the Learning; Family Homework and reminders from the Principal:
When a child’s family engages in their child’s schooling and learning, there are strong correlations with student success. Many of us have a hard time asking our kids about what they are learning without receiving one word answers. Below is a list of prompts and questions you can use to help bring out rich dialogue about learning with your child:
- “What made you laugh today?”
Asking kids to think about a happy topic can make them more eager to share, and not just shoot off an answer.
- “Which subject was your favorite today?”
This question can give you an idea of strengths and interests you might not know about. You can follow up with “Which was your least favorite?”
- “What was the best part of your day?”
Starting with the positive may make it easier for your child to talk about negative things that happened, too.
- “Who did you sit with at lunch today?”
This is a gentle way to find out whether your child is making friends and feels like part of the group.
- “What was the most interesting thing you learned today?”
If the answer is often “nothing,” it could mean your child isn’t tuned in or doesn’t fully understand what’s being taught. Or, it could be that your child just doesn’t like to think back over the day.
- “What did you like most about school today?”
Your child can go anywhere with this question, and you may learn new things about what your child is thinking and doing.
- “What was the hardest thing you did today?”
This question lets your child talk about things that were challenging in a good way and also things that were a struggle.
When you listen to your child share about their learning think about what delights you in what they say, what makes you feel closer to them, or helps you understand who they are, or their experiences better. Affirm your child for sharing with you. Connect with them about similar experiences you had as a learner. Share with them your feelings of joy and pride. Offer areas you might be able to help; sometimes they just need a safe place to share knowing that their family will support them no matter what.
Outside Attire – Much of our learning happens out on the land. Please make sure your child is prepared with weather appropriate clothing, footwear and consider sunscreen and a hat if applicable.
As you go into this weekend, I hope you have rich and joyful conversations with your child about their learning.
Most Sincerely,
Alysa Patching, Principal.
BUSSING INFORMATION
Bus #5 (Tantalus Rd.- Garibaldi Estates) will be starting its route 10 minutes earlier beginning this Monday, October 16th. You can view the new pickup times here.
