Mr. Raiser’s Message
As my own children get a little older (Grade nine and grade eleven) I am starting to think more about what I want children to know when they eventually graduate from school. I am very happy that our board is focusing on big picture outcomes for students, more specifically, collaboration, creativity, problem solving, critical thinking, and communication. These five outcomes are critical for children as we prepare them for an ever changing world. Another mindset that is important for learners to have comes from the work of Carol Dweck, a professor at Stanford University. Carol Dweck has done research that in essence shows that people who view setbacks as a natural part of learning do much better than those who view mistakes as a clear indication that they are not capable. Children who understand that everybody has trials and tribulations when they learn have the mindset that although they may have hit a bump in the road, if they persist they will eventually learn it. This “Growth Mindset” motivates children, and adults, to try again. When your child shares with you that that they can’t do something, encourage them and their belief in a Growth Mindset by replying that they can’t do it YET (but they will learn it). You can find Carol Dweck’s work on UTube by searching Carol Dweck, Teaching a Growth Mindset.
White Elephant Sale – Saturday May 28th – mark your calendar
As a playground fundraiser and fun family event, Sprucedale Public School in collaboration with the Shakespeare Mens’ Club is hosting a White Elephant Sale. This a great opportunity to come and find some gently used treasures – toys, games, books, clothing, household items, sports equipment and more. Planning is underway to make this a broader village event! The members are welcome to donate gently used items to the sale to support the fundraiser. For the time being, mark the date on your calendar, and we will share more details as they are finalized.
Food and Milk Orders for April, May, June:
Food and Milk order forms are due, with payment, on Thursday, March 10. Please note that the Grade 8 trip to Camp Celtic is May 17 to May 20, inclusive.
Community Events:
Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 26:
11:00 a.m. sharp
Come early and line up with your classmates.
Prizes for best costume/egg basket.
Perth District Health Unit:
The HIP e-newsletter (Health Information for Parents) is the best way for you to stay informed about health issues related to your school-aged child!
There are two versions of HIP:
one for parents with children in grades K-6 (Elementary)
one for parents with teenagers in grades 7-12 (Secondary)
The HIP e-newsletters come out 3 times per year: fall, winter and spring and contain up-to-date, reliable health information for your school-aged child and have important updates and links to community supports.
It’s easy to sign up! Go to www.pdhu.on.ca/hip and fill out the online form.
In April or May the Perth District Health Unit are running a contest that will see parents who sign up entered to win one of three $100 Visa gift cards.