Pelham Press Vol. 19,  No. 5    September 25, 2008 http://www.arps.org./pe/

            Friday , September 19 to Friday, September 26                BOOK FAIR

Friday,  September 26                                                    Hearing Screening

Monday,  September 29                                                 Principal Open Office Hour, 5-6 PM

Wednesday, October 1                                                   Savings Makes Sense Begins, 8:30 AM

Thursday, October 2                                                       6^th Grade Field Trip

Monday, October 6                                                        Picture Day

                                                                                    Pelham PTO, 7 PM

Thursday,  October 9                                                      Second Grade Stream Study

Monday,  October 13                                                    No School

From the Principal

I enjoyed seeing so many of you at last night’s Curriculum Night.  As I moved from room to room on Wednesday, I enjoyed hearing about all the learning that goes on in the classrooms and seeing the units that teachers will introduce during the year.  It looked like we were very close to our goal of 100% attendance in most of the classrooms, and I know some parents who had conflicts visited the classrooms on Wednesday afternoon or Thursday morning.  I want to thank all of you for making your child’s education a top priority.                                                                                        Rena Moore

 

REMINDER:  IMPORTANT CALENDAR CHANGE:  Parents, please note that there has been a major calendar change at the elementary level.  Students will be dismissed at 1:20 PM on October 21, October 22, and October 23, so teachers can hold their fall parent teacher conferences.  Teachers will have more information about these conferences at the Curriculum Night next week.

 

A BETTER CHANCE FALL FOLIAGE WALK OCTOBER 18, 2008

The Amherst A Better Chance Fall Foliage Walk will return this year on Saturday, October 18th with all of the fitness fun it has provided for the past 40 years, but with a new, accessible 5K Anniversary route.  A tradition in Amherst, the Walk is the ABC program’s most important fundraiser.  People of all ages and from all parts of the community come out to support the scholars who are seeking better educational opportunities at Amherst Regional High School.  Registration will begin at the Mill Amherst Town Commom at 10 AM and ends with an After Walk Party on the Common at noon featuring the Charles Neville Quartet. It’s OK if you don’t do the whole Walk; even if you can’t walk at ALL on that day you CAN still participate by seeking pledges for an alternative activity.  Pledge forms will be available to Pelham students and families from Meg Gallagher after permission slips go home.  To learn more about the A.B.C. Program, go to amherstabetterchance.org or to the national website, abetterchance.org. 

 

The Apple Harvest Crafts Fair and Children's Festival

Saturday, September 27^th

Amherst Town Common

10am -5pm.

Free Admission

The Festival raises money for the Amherst Family Center.  The Children's Festival will include children’s games, juried crafters, pumpkin decorating, a jumpy castle, pony rides, a petting zoo and Hayrides (in the afternoon)!!  For more information contact 256-1145, Amherst Family Center. 

 

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Savings Makes Sense begins Wednesday, October 1^st.

EASY FUNDRAISER:  If you are a customer at Florence Savings Bank, please fill out the attached customer ballot for Pelham School and return it to the local bank branch or the Pelham School office.

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Craigieburn Farm Alpacas is having an open house on Saturday and Sunday,

9/27-28, 10 AM - 4 PM.  See alpacas and learn about the softness of their

fleece.  243 W. Pelham Rd, Shutesbury. 253-4485

 

 

Steve Rice

 

Craigieburn Farm Alpacas

 

243 West Pelham Road

 

Shutesbury, MA 01072

 

Home: 413-253-4485

 

Cell:  413-768-9347

 

email:  steve.rice@alpacas4u.com

 

website: www.alpacanation.com/craigieburn.asp

 

 

 

 

Make Sure You Child Doesn't Get Left Inside

 

The Berkshire Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club is starting up hikes and other events to get kids outdoors. Our first outing will be  a short hike at Buffam Falls in Pelham on Saturday, Sept. 27.

 

The goal is to have at least one kid-friendly event every month of the year. Possibilities include scavenger hunts, building fairy houses, and letter boxing. Anyone interested in attending family events or helping with the program can contact Nancy Weld, Family Programs chair at (413) 256-8728 or at

 

familyprograms@amcberkshire.org.

 

The Sept. 27 event will be a short   hike at a slow pace, with plenty of opportunity to throw rocks and sticks into the water and explore nature. We may get a snack, lunch or ice cream afterward. We’ll start at 10 a.m.

 

Our second event, on Oct. 12, will be a hike up Rattlesnake Knob which is a smaller peak just east of Mount Norwottuck, part of the Holyoke Range in Amherst. We will meet at 10 a.m. and may gather for lunch afterward.

 

 Contact Leader Nancy Weld for more information (413) 256-8728 or at 

 familyprograms@amcberkshire.org.

 

 

 

 

Pelham Parent Council/PTO Meeting Minutes

Tuesday September 9, 2008

7:00 p.m., Pelham Community Room

 

OPENING & INTRODUCTIONS:

Meeting began at 7:08 p.m., in attendance were Rena Moore, Elaine Fronhofer, Sherri Reydak, Elise Stromgren, Paul Lipman, Amy Wasserman, CherylNina Choquette, Ellen Leuchs, Kathy Weilerstein, Carla Chaisson, Diana Zahradnik, Linda Robinson-Hidas, Lynn Hatch, Debbie Shepard, Laura Carson, Darlene Rose-Wardlaw and Lynn Smith.

Cake of the month – cheesecake with blueberry compote, courtesy of Lynn Smith.

The Pelham Parent Council/PTO welcomes new parents Carla Chaisson, Lynn Hatch and Darlene Rose-Wardlaw.  Lynn briefly described the purpose and goals of the PTO.  The Pelham Parent Council/PTO raises money to support the school community, and for activities that provide a way for families in the community to interact socially throughout the year.  There are regular events that the PTO has organized and various fundraising activities of which folks in the school community are familiar; members are looking forward to some new ideas for the coming year.

UPDATES

Principal’s Report (Rena Moore) – Old copier is still functioning at this time, new copier with 3-year service contract purchased for about ½ what school paid 10 years ago.  Rena reports that school opening went very smoothly.  New staff members are Margaret Light (6^th grade) and Jill Orro (special education).  Richard Corey is assisting in 5^th grades.  Rena shared that there are forums being set up to search for a new superintendent, time and place of the forums to be published in Pelham Press.  Focus groups will be sought, e.g., special education, lower grades, upper grades, etc.  Elaine asked about Spanish instruction this year, Rena explained that a teacher is hired and will be with us through January.  Search has begun this Fall for another instructor.  A large number of Pelham students are participating in the Spanish program, with significant class participation in each grade.  Rena again wishes to express her thanks to Pelham parent volunteers (Deb & Ron Shepard and the Wilson family) who worked on the gardens and playground for the school.  The work on the gardens is part of Daniel Wilson’s Eagle Scout project.  PTO loaned $800 for 4^th Grade “Salmon Rearing” project and Rena explained that she requested check reimbursement for PTO.

Treasurer’s Report (PTO Treasurer Diana Zahradnik) – $10,965.98 (plus the $895 from Salmon Project to come soon).  Diana Z. reported that she along with Anna Robbins were working on a spreadsheet breaking down the amount of money the PTO spent and received according to each separate PTO event.  In this way, it would be easier to see which events were more lucrative and/or where we should cut costs or put our energies.  Diana said it was not yet complete but that it would be completed by next month's PTO meeting. Question from Kathy W. about the Welcome Packets.  Other parents reported that Kindergarteners received a welcome letter and a book, new students received a book, composition book and two pencils and a welcome letter.  Thanks to Ellen Leuchs for getting the packet materials.  Motion made for 17 teachers to receive PTO funds to assist in supporting purchase of materials for their classrooms.  Popcorn popper purchased from COSTCO for $115 for school events, PTO moves to use funds to repay Diana for this purchase.

School Committee Report (PTO member/School Committee member Tracy Farnham – no report this week, next meeting?)

 

ONGOING BUSINESS

Room Representatives (PTO coordinator Leanne Hasbrouck) – Ellen reports that Leanne has contacted all potential room reps.  Leanne sent a letter to all room representatives explaining planned PTO activities and confirming their information for publishing in Pelham Press.

Childcare during meetings – We do not know if there are Pelham parents who are not attending due to childcare issues.  Folks report that in the past childcare was made available but people did not take advantage of it.  Some new parents shared how other schools have handled this issue.  Elaine volunteered to be the point of contact for parents who may need childcare to attend PTO meetings.

Book Fair (PTO coordinator Ellen Leuchs) September 19 – September 26.  Book Fair is earlier this year, starting the night of the ice cream social and running through some school day hours so that teachers may bring their classes and after school as well.  Note that the book fair will not be open during the day on the 19^th, so classes cannot come through on that day, books arrive during the day on the 19^th.  Ellen is seeking volunteers for all hours, UMass student volunteers are to be sought and well as parents.  Thurs 19^th and Weds 24 will have evening hours available.  Proceeds of the sales go to the Pelham Library.

Paul pointed out that the Scholastic book sale (flyers that went home with students the first week of school) is a separate initiative through Scholastic.  Orders placed via the flyers contribute to the student’s class - classes get points toward book purchase for books for the class.

Ice Cream Social (PTO coordinator CherylNina Choquette) September 19.  CherylNina has made contact with Beth Cook (“Flayvors of Cook Farm”).  Beth will do the ice cream social at cost for us, we only need sprinkles and ice cream from Flayvors and a few volunteer “scoopers.”  Also in need of some ice cream scoops – Cheryl is confirming the number that we actually have, Rena and Tracy may have more.

Student Volunteer Recruitment (PTO coordinators Kathy Weilerstein)  Kathy is going to Dan Gerber’s class this week to present information about volunteer activities with Pelham School.  Programs for UMass volunteers are Homework club, After School, Book Fair and Halloween party.  Students in Dan Gerber’s class are required to participate in community volunteer efforts – 500 students in his class.  7 hours required from the students each semester.  The PTO is seeking a volunteer to coordinate the UMass volunteers for Spring semester.  This is an activity that a parent can help out with, just by emailing UMass students and PTO coordinators.  Thank you, Kathy for agreeing to help out for the Fall semester!

Original Art Work Program – (PTO coordinator Linda Robinson-Hidas) Linda reports that this is set up, order forms will go out mid-October, to be returned after Halloween, Original Art Work will be ready by beginning of December.  Linda asked if someone could assist her with this activity and Amy W. volunteered to help out.  Linda reports that this effort made about $900 last year.

6^th Grade Photography – Kathy got information about the photography project.  Diane Steingart did a slide show at graduation, with photographs taken each month during the year of the class at various activities.  Each student arranged a shot and music.  Suggestion – talk to Margaret Light to see if she will make time for this project in 6^th grade this year.

“Savings Makes Sense” (PTO coordinator Diana Z) – This activity is a Wednesday AM bank in the hallway at Pelham school.  Students come in and make a deposit, for every ten deposits Florence Savings Bank gives the student $1.00.  Diane and CherylNina coordinating this effort.  Diana shared that there was a concern from bank that they may not be permitted in the school this year.  Rena says this activity does not constitute solicitation and there is not a problem with this program in the school.  First date is October 1^st, applications to be available to open an account.  There are curriculum materials that accompany this – upper grades get some information about financial skills – interest compilation, etc.

Finances Discussion/Brainstorming – Fundraising objectives.  This was a lively and informative discussion.  Elaine reports that the PTO had a significantly higher balance 2 years ago.  It was reflected upon that PTO did partially fund the Spanish Instruction program in the school and funded other large initiatives that used a significant amount of funds.  We are seeking to purchase new curtains for the gym.  We are seeking a quote about the cost of restringing the curtains.  Lynn H asked what our tolerance/threshold is for our fund; Lynn S reports that there have been discussions about the use of our funds and widely varying opinions about how to use it and how much money to keep in the fund.  What are our goals in keeping funds available?  Comment from Deb S that we should be visible about the reason for the fundraising when we publish information about the activities and the PTO goal, e.g., new playground.  Paul shared some historical information for considering an interest-bearing account.  Lynn Hatch and Elaine to discuss further possibilities for the account.  Kathy asks about funds for the 6^th grade trip, do we have information about what will be made available so that the 6^th grade knows how much money they need to raise to take the trip?  Kathy and Laura recall that there was a letter that went out explaining how much per student would be funded, but last year the 6^th grade fundraiser was so profitable that they did not ultimately need the funds?  More discussion on the topic of finances anticipated at future meetings.

Stop and Shop “Bonus Bucks” – Lynn Smith reports we made $600 last year from parents and other community members signing up for this program.  CherylNina also provided information for Big Y’s “Education Express” program.  Lynn and CherylNina ask that we share the information with parents, neighbors, friends, relatives, etc.  Info to go in Pelham Press.

Election Day Bake Sale is another possible fundraiser – discussion of food sale at the primary and November election.

Paul Lipman brought up a topic (at request of Pelham teaching staff) about Food Drives held in the school.  Teachers asked that we search for volunteers to drive the food from the school from the survival center – parents with their children are sought for this activity particularly, as it is a way to help children become aware of the needs within their community.  Carla reports that the Food Bank’s funds were cut back this year.

Deans Beans Coffee Sale (PTO coordinator Amy Wasserman) – Amy has received information from Crocker Farm and Fort River Parent Councils about previous sales they have organized and had some ideas about how this activity could work.  Lynn Smith suggested that we hold a tasting during the ice cream social (Sept 19).  Volunteers sought to assist in picking up “pump pots” for the ice cream social – suggested that we also get Java Drops (chocolate covered coffee beans).  Rena suggests signed copies of Dean’s book “Java Trekker” with bag of coffee/Java Drops and a mug attached in a gift wrap for purchase.  Kathy suggests that we also have free samples available for Open House (Sept 24) more parent participation/higher attendance.  Amy suggests a name for the coffee, “Shay’s Rebellious Blend.”  Suggestion made that order forms be available in the library as well.

Gift Wrap Fundraiser (PTO coordinator Deb Shepard)  Deb reports that she has spoken with the gift wrap people, and they faxed her an order form to review.  This is a popular and profitable activity; PTO decides to continue with for this year.  Diana volunteers to do gift wrap fundraiser next year.

Pampered Chef Fundraiser – Kathy wants to know if we should do alternate years, it is agreed that we will do the Pampered Chef in spring or save for next year.

Event Review

CLOSING

Next Meeting Date – more discussion about meeting times/days and family obligations – Monday October 6 at 7:00 p.m.  (FYI from Rena this date is Picture Day!)

Meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m.

 

 

 

Third Grade News

Meg Gallagher

 

            Once upon a time clouds were dinosaurs, whales, or Mickey Mouse to your child.  Now they may still be imaginary creatures, but they are also cumulus, cirrus, or stratus clouds!  Students in third grade are well into their Weather Unit.  We have learned about clouds, the water cycle, and wind, and we have been collecting data about wind speed and direction, precipitation, and cloud type and cover.  We try to predict weather based on our data.  We are currently covering or will soon cover high and low air pressure, fronts, weather maps, and air temperature.

 

            In math, students have been working on place value.  They have a good understanding of ones, tens, and hundreds.  Our unit has focused on being able to write equations for word problems, and then communicate the strategy used to solve the problem.  I have seen much progress in this area.  Students are using number lines, hundred charts, money, and base ten blocks to solve problems.  During Wizards time, we are also learning the traditional algorithms to solve addition and subtraction problems. Students should be studying their addition facts weekly, for their two minute timed tests which are given on Thursdays.

 

            During our disability unit, I mentioned Helen Keller, and no one in the class knew who she was.  I chose a biography of Helen Keller as our first reading group book.  We worked on vocabulary, decoding strategies, and comprehension skills. Students have done a wonderful job reading and learning about her life.  I think they have found her as inspirational as I always have.  I was very pleased to be able to share her story with them.

 

            We have begun working on a personal narrative during writing time.  We will focus on descriptive language, organization, and strong details. During Grammar and Mechanics time we have focused on rules for capitalization.  We will be utilizing these rules in our stories.  I look forward to sharing them with you during our October Parent/Teacher Conferences.

 

 

FOURTH GRADE NEWS

TONY SHAW

 

The year is off to a great start.  The students have already shown me that they are very capable.  We have settled in with our first two units.  In social studies the children have been reading about Native American culture.  Soon, they will start their first project.  The project will include a written portion and a visual hands-on presentation.  Children can choose topics such as pottery, beads, weaving, and the ubiquitous hunting and trapping. 

 

In science they have been exploring electricity.  They have built many things that demonstrate an understanding of a complete circuit.  They have also investigated items that permit the passage of electricity (conductors) and inhibit the passage of electricity (insulators).  Who would have guessed that electricity can pass through the graphite core of a pencil?  They have just completed a large project called a question and answer board, and they are ready to be tried.  Using a circuit tester, students connect a question to the correct answer and a bulb lights up. The secret is on the back of the board; wires complete the path electricity must travel.

 

In math we are starting the year off with arrays, as they hold the key to studying multiplication in many ways.  Students have selected different numbers and, using graph paper, have cut out all possible arrays with that total. The dimensions of the array are factors of the product.  Next we will examine the posters to learn about prime and composite numbers.

 

At the beginning of the year, we take time in the classroom to familiarize students with their homework responsibilities.  They have been doing very well with their homework routine so far.  I sent home homework club slips to some families.  Let me know if you need your child in homework club for support.

 

Thank you all for coming to Curriculum Night; I enjoyed meeting so many of you.  If you did not sign up for a conference, please send me dates and times you are available through your child, a phone call, or email (shawa@arps.org).

 

moorer@arps.org

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