After so many Februarys in the classroom, it should no longer surprise me that we have lots happening in preschool during the year’s shortest month. We seem to capitalize on every moment and fill it with activity and excitement. Since February is typically gray and chilly, we make extra efforts to keep it bright, busy and warm inside the preschool classrooms.
Monday, February 6 is our 100th day. This is a moveable celebration due to unpredictable winter weather. We have been keeping a record of how many days we have been in school, and are looking forward to some special activities on our centennial day. You will receive additional information from your child's teacher as to how the class will be observing this day. We conclude our day with a pizza lunch.
The latter part of January and all of February is devoted to the study of space in PreK. Frogs and Sunshines will be busy during this time constructing solar systems, rockets and space suits as well as simulating space travel. In connection with this study unit, the two classes will travel to the Morehead Planetarium on Friday, February 3 and conclude their study of Outer Space with a party on Friday, February 24. (planning meeting February 2 at 8:15)We anticipate with delight the astronaut parade preceding the Space Party.
Wednesday, February 8 at 8:30, we look forward to a Chinese folktale presented by the talented Ladybug thespians in Janet Hampton’s and Dena Hanna’s class. Parents, grandparents and siblings are invited to attend.
February 9 at 8:15, there is a coffee for preschool parents. We hope you will join us for a general question and answer session.
Kindergarten classes conclude their study of China on Friday February 10 with a field trip feast at a local Chinese restaurant.
Another highlight of February is the session with our visiting author. This year author Debra Hopkinson will talk to the children about her craft on Monday, February 13. We thank Parents Council for the generous grant that funds these annual visits by authors and artists.
Valentine parties will take place at various times throughout the morning on Tuesday, February 14. You will hear from your own child's teacher regarding this celebration. We encourage children to address their own valentines, so allow some time for this activity.
Kindergartens begin the study of England on Monday, February 20. As always, we would be grateful for the loan of any pictures or artifacts or the sharing of information about life or travels in the United Kingdom.
Wednesday, February 22 is conference day for other divisions at Durham Academy and the entire school including preschool is closed. Preschool faculty will schedule parent conferences in April. We would like our students to have more time to grow and develop before the final conference time. If you feel you need a conference earlier in the spring, please contact your child’s teacher as we are always happy to meet with you and talk about our favorite young people.
Thursday February 23 Ed Costello will come for a special assembly and tell us about the many hats he wears and has worn during his tenure in independent schools.
This year’s annual school-wide benefit auction takes place on Saturday, February 25. This festive event has been great fun in the past and promises to be especially so this year as a committee of experienced party-givers have planned a celebration dubbed the “Green and White Ball” at the American Tobacco Campus. Our preschool students have been working with art teacher Elizabeth Lyle to create beautiful mirrors for sale that evening. Proceeds from this event help to fund so many of the “extras” we enjoy including our visiting authors and artists, our playground equipment, technology initiatives and our own drama program.
Two notable things for preschool just for parents this month:
On Friday, February 3 you are invited to meet at Guglhupf Bakery at 8:20am for “Sip-It”. Come visit with other preschool parents for a relaxing break. There is no agenda, just an opportunity to connect and enjoy each others company.
On Tuesday February 7, Lower School Technology teacher Michele Gutierrez will address the subject of internet safety and what measures you can take to make sure your children are “cyber-smart”. There are two sessions of this workshop to take place at 8:15am and 7:00pm. Both will be held in the 1st Grade Commons
Many thanks for the enthusiasm and support you offer us and for the wonderful children you share with us.
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