Sakiko and R.J.s Class Notes

We have been braving the cold weather and making the most of winter by building igloos and playing outside in the winter snow. In preparation for Soul Food Night, the students are learning the song “Wonderful World” by Sam Cooke and have been practicing both with Music Josh on Monday afternoons and in the classroom.

In honor of Black History Month we have been reading books by Black authors including, Daddy Calls Me Man, by Angela Johnson, Gettin’ Through Thursday by Melrose Cooper, and Ain’t Nobody a Stranger to Me by Ann Grifalconi, and Miranda and Brother Wind by Patricia C. McKissack. These stories have inspired thoughtful journal entries, as students reflected on the messages with each text. We also read A Change is Gonna Come, an illustrated adaptation of Sam Cooke’s powerful song about freedom and equality. Nikkolas Smith’s vivid illustrations beautifully follow the lyrics, helping students deepen their understanding of the song’s meaning and importance. During our read-aloud, thoughtful questions and comments about fairness and equality emerged. Afterwards, we listened to Sam Cooke’s beautiful voice while taking a picture walk through the pages which made the experience even more meaningful.

Before the break, we celebrated Valentine’s Day with much joy and gratitude. Thank you to Jodi and Manuela and everyone who contributed to a really fun celebration filled with a puppet show, card making, and an exciting game of Valentine's Bingo. In the cinema, we enjoyed short clips of Winnie the Pooh and Friends. For Valentine’s Day, students also created watercolor paintings that included text of what “Love is…” Paintings were filled with bright colors and gorgeous illustrations.

We are well underway with our current read-aloud current, Winnie-the-Pooh, by Ernest H. Shepard. The students have been thoroughly enjoying being swept away by this timeless tale of friendship and caring. Students have begun logging their “just right” books and are coloring in hearts throughout February to represent the books they are reading.

We wish everyone a relaxing and restful break and look forward to seeing you after the vacation!