Yesterday afternoon, I was able to spend some significant time in many of our classrooms.  We are now in full swing and the instruction and learning were on full display.

In a 2nd grade classroom, I watched the teacher skillfully lead the students in a math discussion involving the concept of Algebra.  The math thinking being asked of the students, as well as the academic vocabulary used by teacher and students, would make an observer think they were watching a much higher grade level.

In a 4th grade classroom, I witnessed the teacher pull small groups of students to the back table so that she could re-teach a difficult math concept.  The positive coaching used by this teacher left me with the impression that students could not help but feel fully supported by the teacher.  

In a 5th grade classroom, I observed a teacher reading the students a story about 9/11.  The students were fully engaged, asking relevant questions.  The teacher used the story to teach the students about word choice and descriptors.  Captivating!

In a 6th grade classroom, I was mesmerized by the dynamic instruction of the teacher, as she introduced the students to the writing of a personal narrative.  Her engaging style had all of her students hanging on her every word.

I have often said to people that I have one of the best jobs in the world because I get to visit every one of our classrooms.  I certainly felt that way yesterday.

Safety Reminders

Every year, at the start, I send a message to parents regarding parking lot safety.  This year is no different and I'm doing so because reports of unsafe driving are coming into the office.  But remember that the rules of the road also apply to pedestrians and bicyclists.  While children are learning the rules of the road, the best model of safety comes from you, the parents.  Please be sure you are modelling the safe behavior you wish your child to exhibit when they are older.

After School Supervision

Please review with your child your expectations of where to be and how to act after school is out.  As a reminder, there is no after-school supervision.  We ask that parents, baby-sitters, grandparents, or whoever is picking up students,  to be in close supervision of students after school.  No student should be playing without direct supervision of someone who is responsible for them.  And, if you are supervising your child, please enforce Springer's rules- which are based on safety and good sense.  For example, we do not allow students to climb up poles during schools; you should also not allow it if you are on campus after school. We want to give students the impression that rules, based on safety, are in effect 24 hours a day.   There is a 3:00pm "clear campus" bell that rings, alerting all students to leave campus if they are not being directly supervised. 

Thank You

Lastly, on behalf of our Springer family who lost their home last Saturday in a fire, I want to thank the entire community for your concern and support.  I know it means a great deal to them and they feel very lucky to live in such a caring community.   We are all very lucky to be part of the Springer community.

Have a great weekend.

Mr Spenader

Follow us on Twitter @SpringerSpenade