December 16/18

Hi Everyone,

It is hard to believe that Christmas is just around the corner.  There is a lot of excitement in the building right now :).  Thank you to everyone for attending our concert this year.  We hope you enjoyed our rendition of 'Dominic the Donkey'.  A big thank you to Dr. Saul for organizing the choreography and practicing with the students in music.

*Next week will be our last week of school before the break.  We will be having our Christmas Party on the last day of school (December 21st) in the afternoon.  Thank you in advance to the following people who are sending in treats that day:

Avery (fruit plate),  Paityn (veggie plate),  Eugene (Cheese/crackers), Madden (sweet treat),
Keana (popcorn or chips)

*We will also be having a free hot chocolate delivered on December 21st (thanks to our PAC for providing this).  Please send a mug in with your child on that day.  

*We will also be wearing our PJ's to school on this date and bringing in our favourite Christmas stories to share during Hallway Reading. 

*A big thank you to our parent volunteers who drove for skating.  We had a great time!

*I will be sending home new JRR books next week so that the students have new reading material for over the holidays.

*I still have a few students who have not had their 'Owls and More' payment made yet.  I will be contacting these people by email next week.  If you aren't sure if you've paid, please contact me at amanda_roberts@sd42.ca as I have been keeping an account with the office

*We will be continuing our Christmas crafts this Friday and next Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 9:30.  Please contact me if you would like to come and help any of those days.  Thank you!

Happy Holidays, Everyone!

Amanda Roberts

December 5, 2018

The countdown until Christmas is on!  There is a lot of excitement in the building as we make crafts, enjoy Christmas music and prepare for our upcoming concert.  I hope you all enjoy our performance next week.

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*please get your ticket from Eventbrite if you plan on attending the Christmas concert, this goes for both the day time and evening performance.  Tickets are almost sold out!  If you do not have tickets you are welcome to attend our dress rehearsal on Tuesday at 9:00.  This are always a little bit 'unpolished' but worth seeing if you are unable to attend at another time

*we are singing 'Dominic the Donkey' for our Christmas concert this year.  We have 7 Dominic hats for each class and the volunteers who are going to wear these are:  Josh, Eugene, Antonio, Sophia, Ryanna, Madden and Lucas.  It worked out perfectly as these were my only volunteers so no one was disappointed.  These students should wear black and/or grey for the concert if at all possible.  The rest of the class are encouraged to wear black pants, white tops, bow ties (if you have one), a fedora (if you have one) or a dress if they prefer.  Please do not feel that you have to go out and purchase any new clothes, Dr. Saul had the great idea to set it up like a restaurant in Italy so we are trying to work with in that theme if possible.

*our grade 7 student's Entrepreneur Fair is tomorrow, we will be attending in the afternoon if you child would like to bring money to purchase something

*A portal announcement regarding our upcoming skating field trip on December 13th is now on the portal.  Driver's will be needed (please ensure you have an updated abstract if you would like to volunteer)   We only have one driver at this point who can take 4 students.  Please sign up asap so that we know if we need to try to arrange other transportation or cancel the field trip.  Thank you!


*Please mark your calendar:  Thursday, January 31 we will be going to Science World as part of our unit on nutrition/the human body.  We will be hiring a bus to take us to/from this field trip but we will require a few parent volunteers


*Please pay the fees for 'Owls and More' if you have not already done so.  There are also still some outstanding charges for planners.  Thank you

*Your children did a fantastic job of being 'Santa's helpers' today (see below).  The toys that were collected/purchased will be on display during the concert.  Thank you for your support!


Amanda Roberts

PS.  The first photos is what happens when you ask a group of people to say 'Ho Ho' for a picture :)  The second, Merry Christmas option is a little better ;)

November 27/18

Hi Everyone,

I look forward to seeing all of you at the conferences tomorrow.  Please check the portal to confirm your time.  Please note:  You will only sign up for one 15 minute slot but you will stay here for 30 minutes.  The first 15 minutes is for you and your child to celebrate their work in the hallway, the last 15 minutes will be spent conferencing together.  For example:  If you sign up for the 2:00-2:15 time slot, you will come at 2:00 but stay until 2:30.  Please come and see me if you need further clarification.

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*Donations to the Christmas Hamper will be gratefully accepted until this Tuesday, December 4th.  Thank you for supporting this great cause.  Your children have been doing a great job of promoting this toy drive.

*Tomorrow is an 11:00 dismissal, please ensure that your child still attends as we will be spending some time in the morning getting organized for the conference.  We also have library so everyone who returns their books will have the chance to get a new one for the long weekend.  Mrs. Holmes gave us some reminders to send home regarding books that haven't been returned.  Please check your child's planner/back pack for a slip with the name of the missing book.

*Please pay the fees for 'Owls and More' if you have not already done so.  There are also still some outstanding charges for planners.  Thank you

*Our day to attend the entrepreneur fair that the grade 7's are putting on is Thursday, December 6th.  All items will be available for between $2-$5  Please clearly mark all money that is being sent in so there is no confusion over what is being donated and what is for the fair.  Thank you!

*Our concert is fast approaching.  If you have not already done so, please go on 'Eventbrite' to get your tickets.  The day time performance is free but you still need to get a ticket to attend.  Also, please see the previous posts for our dress for those dates.

*A portal announcement regarding our upcoming skating field trip on December 13th is now on the portal.  Driver's will be needed (please ensure you have an updated abstract if you would like to volunteer)  Thank you!


Please mark your calendar:  Thursday, January 31 we will be going to Science World as part of our unit on nutrition/the human body.  We will be hiring a bus to take us to/from this field trip but we will require a few parent volunteers.

I look forward to celebrating your child's learning over the next couple of days.

Thank you,

Amanda Roberts

November 21/2018

Hi Everyone,

We are having a fun 'Spirit Week' at Fairview and as I write this there is still 80's dress up day tomorrow and PJ day on Friday :)

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*Scholastic is coming home today, if you want to order a Christmas surprise please just write that one the order form and I will email you when it arrives and get it to you discretely

*conferences are next week, early dismissal on Thursday (11:00) and no school on Friday so that we can discuss student learning during our conferences
*please sign up for the parent conferences next week if you have not already done so. You can do this via the parent portal.  Please note:  You will only sign up for one 15 minute slot but you will stay here for 30 minutes.  The first 15 minutes is for you and your child to celebrate their work in the hallway, the last 15 minutes will be spent conferencing together.  For example:  If you sign up for the 2:00-2:15 time slot, you will come at 2:00 but stay until 2:30.  Please come and see me if you need further clarification.

*Our class is leading Fairview's annual 'Christmas Hamper Toy Drive'.  A red or green notice will be in your child's planner today.

*I have changed everyone's book bags this week.  Please ensure that these come to school each day.  Thank you!

*Thank you to Cash's mom for coming in to help us during Reader's Workshop the last 3 Thursdays

*Christmas Concert tickets are now available.  Please see the postal announcement regarding details for this event and to sign up via the link provided there

*The dates for the Craft Fair are Wednesday December 5th, from 3-5pm. Thursday December 6th 1pm-2pm for Primary students and then Friday December 7th 1-2pm for intermediate students. 

*The grade 6 and 7 students are using this Craft Fair as a major fundraiser for their camp fees so they would appreciate the whole school's support. They are making a lot of really amazing products. 

A few examples: aroma therapy bracelets, inspirational posters, candles, teddy adoption, slime, calming water bottles, Christmas ornaments and much more.

*I am encouraging everyone to go on to IXL this weekend, you can begin by exploring patterns for your child's grade.  If it is too easy/difficult, you can move up/down accordingly.  Please have them do this with some initial help if needed but then allow them to work independently. Thank you!



*Please enjoy the 'twin day' photos below :)

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Nov. 15/18

Hi Everyone,

We have had a short but busy week.  We are learning a lot about owls and have begun learning some coding.

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*Next week is spirit week:

Monday Nov 19 - School Colours Day

Tuesday Nov 20 - Hat Day (Leadership will also be planning a Bake Sale for this day)

Wednesday Nov 21 - Twin Day

Thursday Nov 22 - 80's Day (chosen leadership students will be at WE Day)

Friday Nov 23 - PJ Day

*we are singing 'Dominic the Donkey' for our Christmas concert this year.  We have 7 Dominic hats for each class and the volunteers who are going to wear these are:  Josh, Eugene, Antonio, Sophia, Ryanna, Madden and Lucas.  It worked out perfectly as these were my only volunteers so no one was disappointed.  These students should wear black and/or grey for the concert if at all possible.  The rest of the class are encouraged to wear black pants, white tops, bow ties (if you have one), a fedora (if you have one) or a dress if they prefer.  Please do not feel that you have to go out and purchase any new clothes, Dr. Saul had the great idea to set it up like a restaurant in Italy so we are trying to work with in that theme if possible.

*tomorrow there is a second frozen yogurt sale ($2)

*next week our class will begin working on/promoting our annual toy drive for the MRPM Hamper Society.  You will receive a letter outlining this at the end of next week but if you want to get a jump on shopping this weekend, we are asking for a donation of a toy that your child would enjoy.
Thank you!

*please sign up for a conference time if you have not already done so.  There is an explanation regarding how this works on the previous post if you would like some clarification.

Have a great weekend!

Amanda Roberts

Puppet play Reader's Workshop presentation.  Great job, team!

Using the code-a-pillar to make it to the end dot.  It was a challenge!

November 7/18

Hi Everyone,

I hope you all enjoy your extra long weekend!  We have been spending some time talking about Remembrance Day with a focus on Peace.  We made a wreath out of hearts and hands and discussed how peace begins in our hearts but we need to put that feeling into action.  At the end we added some seeds to show our wish for peace to grow.  This will be put in place at the assembly tomorrow.

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*donations (big or small) are gratefully accepted for the veterans.  Poppies will be distributed just before the assembly tomorrow

*school spirit week is fast approaching:
Monday Nov 19 - School Colours Day

Tuesday Nov 20 - Hat Day (Leadership will also be planning a Bake Sale for this day)

Wednesday Nov 21 - Twin Day

Thursday Nov 22 - 80's Day (chosen leadership students will be at WE Day)

Friday Nov 23 - PJ Day

*each child in the class will be having a 'sleep over' with Fin.  Your child will then draw a picture and write about their time with Fin with a focus on being socially responsible.  There is a letter at the front of the duotang with more information.  Please ensure that Fin is returned to the school each day as the next child on the list will be waiting for a turn.  If your night is busy and your child needs more time to complete the homework, please feel free to take a sheet out of the duotang which can be completed/handed in at a later date.  Thank you!

*please sign up for the parent conferences at the end of the month if you have not already done so. You can do this via the parent portal.  Please note:  You will only sign up for one 15 minute slot but you will stay here for 30 minutes.  The first 15 minutes is for you and your child to celebrate their work in the hallway, the last 15 minutes will be spent conferencing together.  For example:  If you sign up for the 2:00-2:15 time slot, you will come at 2:00 but stay until 2:30.  Please come and see me if you need further clarification.

*you will be getting a portal announcement soon with one fee attached ($16).  This is for four separate guests/activities which are outlined in the announcement.

*please see the photo below for information about the upcoming play, 'Mamma Mia' which features our very own... SOPHIA!!  Break a leg, Sophia :)

Thank you,

Amanda Roberts

November 1/18

Hi Everyone!

I hope you all had a fantastic Halloween!  There has certainly been a lot of excitement in the halls of Fairview this week! :)

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*please send in headphones if you have not already done so
*if your child would like to include his/her 'Halloween I Spy' in their memory books once you have found all of their hidden items, please send it back to the school

*I have now added the conference sign up times for our upcoming three way conferences on November 29th and 30th.  These can be accessed via the parent portal.  Please note:  You will sign up for a 15 minute conference but you will actually be here for 30 minutes.  The first 15 minutes (the time you sign up for) will be spent in the hallway celebrating your child's learning.  The second 15 minutes, we will meet in the classroom to set goals for the upcoming term.  Please enter the school through the front door and please be on time in order to avoid having to reschedule our meeting.  Thank you! 

*A big thank you to everyone who sent in treats for our Halloween party!  It was a big success!

*Please only send 1-2 Halloween treats with your child to school.  Thank you!

*We will be having a Remembrance Day assembly just before the long weekend.  Donations are gratefully accepted, your child will receive a poppy to wear at the assembly.

*Thank you to Sophia's family for sending in Halloween craft supplies for us to create with/enjoy

*Thank you also to Logan's mom for making play dough for our next round of Explorations

*Mrs. Watkins sent out a message on the portal explaining to you about the problems I have been having with my work email.  Apparently, I am one of about a dozen people in the district who are having this issue.  I will let you know once it is rectified.  In the meantime, I'd like to ask each of you to check your junk mail to ensure that there are no emails from me there.  If there are, can you please email me at amanda_roberts@sd42.ca (I seem to be able to receive emails okay).  That way I can inform the district on the extent of the problem). Please note that if you email me, I will always email back or talk to you in person.  If I have not responded to you, my reply is probably in your junk mail.  Thanks for your patience while this gets sorted out.

*Just a reminder that the side parking lot is for staff parking only.  Please do not drop off your children in that area.  Thank you!

Oct. 26/18

Hi Everyone,

Halloween is just around the corner and there is a lot of excitement in the air.

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*Please pay for the planner, send in headphones and send in outside shoes if you have not already done so

*Halloween is fast approaching.  Thank you in advance to the following families for bringing in treats:  Lucas (Fruit plate),  Dyllan (Veggie plate), Logan (Cheese and crackers), Pandora (sweet treat), Ryanna (popcorn or chips).  We will be having our party in the afternoon on Halloween day.  Please note:  students should still bring a nutritious snack and lunch on that day as we won't be eating until later in the afternoon.

*Everyone is welcome to wear their costume for the day and we will have our annual costume parade in the gym that morning.  Students will still go outside for some fresh air and exercise during recess/lunch so costumes should be easy to take on/off if you are concerned about them getting dirty.  Please send a note if this is the case.  Thank you!

*We are going to follow our usual tradition and follow up Halloween by having Pajama Day on November 1st.  Parents in the past have appreciated the little extra sleep and one less step the morning after Halloween :)

*Our leadership group is offering a movie fundraiser at lunch on Halloween (Scooby Doo).  The cost is $1 for students who would like to attend.  They will also be offering face painting (by donation) for anyone who is interested.

*Please check our Fairview website and Facebook Page regularly to receive information from Mrs. Watkins and our PAC group.  Please use the link below if you are able to help our PAC collect prize donations for our upcoming bingo night.    http://www.volunteersignup.org/4MAFE

*Next week, your child will be bringing home a book bag.  These will contain books at your child's approximate reading level.  We realize that many of you are already accessing levelled books via our Raz Kids link but this will give you a hard copy option as well.  Please ensure that your child brings them to/from school each day (just like their planners) as we will be using them here as well.  Books will be exchanged every 2-3 weeks.  The bag will also periodically contain a book with a yellow post-it in it.  This is from our Reader's Workshop station and should be the book that is focused on first so that your child feels confident presenting it to the class in a small group.  Thank you!

October 18/18

Hi Everyone,

I hope you all enjoy the long weekend ahead :)

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*Please pay for the planner, send in headphones and send in outside shoes if you have not already done so
*A big thank you to all of the parents who drove for our field trip today!  It was a big success and I was so impressed with the perseverance and positive attitude of the students (many of who haven't had much experience with skating)
*Halloween is fast approaching.  Thank you in advance to the following families for bringing in treats:  Lucas (Fruit plate),  Dyllan (Veggie plate), Logan (Cheese and crackers), Pandora (sweet treat), Ryanna (popcorn or chips).  We will be having our party in the afternoon on Halloween day.  Please note:  students should still bring a nutritious snack and lunch on that day as we won't be eating until later in the afternoon.
*Everyone is welcome to wear their costume for the day and we will have our annual costume parade in the gym that morning.  Students will still go outside for some fresh air and exercise during recess/lunch so costumes should be easy to take on/off if you are concerned about them getting dirty.  Please send a note if this is the case.  Thank you!
*Fairview's hot lunch program is going online!  Please see photo below for registration information
*There are also some photos of some of our leaf art (thank you for sending those in).  We did a leaf art self portrait and met Mrs. Rowledge-Toscani's class in the forest for a cooperative art project as well.  There is also one of our sunflowers.  A big thank you to Sophia's family for sending in a sunflower for us to observe and dissect.

October 4/2018

Hi Everyone,

I hope you all enjoy a fantastic Thanksgiving!  It sounds like there are a lot of family gatherings in the works :)  I am sending home a Thanksgiving gratitude scavenger hunt in your child's Poetry and More duotang.  Please help them complete this as homework over the weekend.

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*thank you for sending in dry leaves,  we will be using the small/medium ones for an indoor art projects and the large ones for creating art in the forest.  We are getting close to having enough so if you haven't already done so, if you could please send them in that would  be great

*please send in planner money, inside shoes, entertainment books, headphones/earbuds and the yellow information forms for the office if you have not already done so

*skating permission should now be on the portal, drivers are needed for this field trip so please ensure that you have a current driver's abstract in the office 604 465 9331

*your child is bringing home an important information sheet about IXL, which is an online learning site.  We will be using it largely to support our math curriculum but you are welcome to access this at home.  This is a good way for your child to continue to practice speed/accuracy of his/her math skills and also find a challenge as there is access to every grade.  The site is connected to our BC curriculum.  You can access this site using our 'useful links' on this blog.  This also where you can access RAZ kids which is the individualized reading program we have also started.  Your child will have brought home information on this last week, along with a follow up email with detailed information.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

Amanda Roberts

Sept. 27/18

Hi Everyone,

It is hard to believe that we are in our last week of September and that Thanksgiving is fast approaching.  We are starting to build a feeling of community in the classroom and students new to my room are now getting the hang of routines and expectations.

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*Division 10 is taking a leadership role in a very important charity event.  We are busy making posters and announcements, delivering boxes and encouraging the students of Fairview to bring in non-perishable items for the 'Friends in Need' Food bank.  This fundraising effort will be happening from October 1st-5th.  Our class motto is :  'Little People can make a BIG difference!'  I am hoping the children will feel empowered by helping others.  Thank you in advance in supporting their goal to fill our box by sending in some non-perishable food items.

*please send in dry leaves if you have not already done so (at least 10 but more are welcome).  As soon as we have enough, we have a fun art project to create with them

*please send in inside shoes and $7 for planners, signed yellow information sheets and entertainment books if you have not already done so

*the party sign up is available just inside the door if you'd like to choose a party to bring a treat for.  If I don't hear from you, I can put your name in for a party and notify you the week before via this blog

*please send in earbuds/headphones if you have not already done so.  We are using these in the computer lab and during the iPad station of Reader's Workshop and Math

*I have assigned each student a reading level on Raz Kids based on preliminary testing.  Some students may be on the same letter as last year as some letters cover many levels (M contains a very wide range).  Your child has the option to read a level up/down with this program, they don't have to be reading the exact level.  Once they have shown growth in their reading skills (or read all of their books), I can make adjustments as needed.  Students should answer questions if they read a book.  This is another option for accessing appropriate reading materials, especially if you are traveling and the students find the books engaging.  You can connect to the site using the useful links on this blog. Your child's password is their first name.

*we will be putting the upcoming skating trip out on the portal early next week.  Please ensure that you have an 'up to date' driver's abstract if you plan on volunteering.  These expire after 2 years but are quick and easy now that they can be completed by phone.

*reminder:  we will be going out for a run/play in the forest on Tuesdays (rain or shine)

*Art card orders are due early next week

*a big Thank you to the parents who came out and joined us for the Terry Fox Run.  It was a great afternoon to get out and continue Terry's run and we are very pleased to announce that Fairview more than doubled our school goal and have raised over $2700 for the Terry Fox Foundation.  A cheque will be presented to Terry's brother Fred.

*reminder:  I am now coaching cross country Mon/Wed/Fri after school so students who are not picked up at the bell will be sent to wait at the office to ensure their safety.  Thank you!

*Thank you to Dylan's mom who has offered to organize the Scholastic catalogues for distribution each month

Here are some Spirit Days coming up in November (for those of you who like lots of notice :))

Monday Nov 19 - School Colours Day

Tuesday Nov 20 - Hat Day (Leadership will also be planning a Bake Sale for this day)

Wednesday Nov 21 - Twin Day

Thursday Nov 22 - 80's Day (chosen leadership students will be at WE Day)

Friday Nov 23 - PJ Day

September 20/18

Hi Everyone,

I hope you have all had a chance to get outside and enjoy the sunshine while it was here.  Fall is definitely in the air!

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*please send in the $7.00 for planners if you have not already done so (or you have the option to pay online via the parent portal)

*thank you to the parents who have shown an interest in being part of the Terry Fox Run.  We will be meeting in the gym at 1:00 on Wednesday for the warm up and will head out onto the course from there.  ****Please remember that your child is only able to join us on the course if you have given consent via the parent portal****

*if you would like to volunteer to come on the walk/run, please email me at amanda_roberts@sd42.ca    If you prefer to be at a stationary check-point to help monitor student safety, please contact our Terry Fox Run coordinator, Celeste Boyes at celeste_boyes@sd42.ca

*we will be presenting a cheque to Fred Fox (Terry's brother) for all of the donations we collect on Friday, September 28th.  If you would like to send in a donation, please do so before this date.  Thank you!

*please send in labeled school supplies and inside shoes if you have not already done so

*there are 4 sheets posted inside the classroom door.  These are for parents to sign up for a class party. Please come in and choose a date if you are at the school or send me an email if you would like me to sign you up.  The choices are Halloween, Christmas, Valentine's Day and June.  Thank you!

*we have booked 3 dates for skating this year.  Here they all are in case you would like to 'save the date'  All of our sessions are on Thursdays at 1:00 at Planet Ice  (October 18, December 13, February 28)

*we are planning on creating a masterpiece using fall leaves.  If each student could bring in 10 dry leaves for this craft that would be much appreciated.  They can be all different shapes and sizes and you can send in more if you like but please make sure they are dry before they are sent in.

*Tuesdays we will be going out to the forest, rain or shine (unless it is a torrential down pour)  Please ensure that your child is dressed appropriately for this.  I am still revising my schedule and hope to find a second date to exercise/explore outside as well.  We do have 'west coast' recess/lunch so your child should come to school prepared to be outside and active everyday!

*starting next week, I will be coaching cross country Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays after school.  If your child is not picked up on time those days, I will be asking them to wait by the office so that I know they are in a safe place until you arrive.  If your child is interested in cross country, they will bring home a form this week.

*please send in the 'Get Acquainted' and Parent Volunteer forms if you have not already done so

*ProD Day on Monday, no school for students

*Please see the calendar on this blog for other important dates coming up in the next two weeks.
Thank you!

September 14/18

Hi Everyone,

It is the end of the first week in our new classrooms and Division 10 students are starting to build a community together.  I have already seen an improvement in independence, listening and ability to follow class routines but even more importantly, I am enjoying seeing new friendships develop.  For this first post I will include a copy of the information I sent home on Wednesday so you can check back here as needed.  Next week I will include some additional information.

Reminders:  Please return art cards if you would like to place an order.
                     Please give your child walking permission so they may participate in the Terry Fox Run        (this was sent home at the beginning of the school year from the office)

****Please note:  All communication via email should be sent to amanda_roberts@sd42.ca (not the one associated with this blog)

Have a great weekend,

Amanda Roberts

September 2018

Dear Parents,

My name is Amanda Roberts and I have been a teacher at Fairview for several years, largely teaching in the primary grades. I have had previous experience teaching a grade 2/3 combined class and feel well prepared to provide a positive and engaging learning environment for your child.  I am looking forward to a great year!

Classroom Routines

One of the big focuses when starting a new year is setting up routines within the classroom.  Getting these in place ensures that the day runs smoothly and that learning time is maximized.  With this in mind, I would like to ask that you say your goodbyes to your child outside so that they can enter the room on their own and learn to follow the routines independently.  You are welcome to come in once students are dismissed at the end of the day if you would like to chat with me or if your child would like to share something inside the room with you.  Also, if you could please send me a note if your child is supposed to meet you/a sibling at an alternate part of the school so I can ensure everyone is safely picked up.

Communication

I do realize that there are some mornings where you might have information to share with me that will help your child have a positive day (they haven’t had a good sleep, were nervous about school etc.)  Please feel free to see me if this is the case or write a note in your child’s planner.  You can also phone the school (604- 465-9331) and schedule an appointment to see me or email me at Amanda_Roberts@sd42.ca.  (Please note:  I rarely have time to check my email during the school day, I normally check it after school and early in the morning before I leave for work so it is better to reach me with time sensitive messages by phone or in person). I really feel it is important to keep the lines of communication open and encourage you to contact me with any questions or concerns that may arise.  The main place you will be receiving information from me at this time is via our classroom blog robertsfairview.blogspot.ca.  I normally update this each week (most often on Friday or Saturday) but occasionally things arise between posts.  If this happens, your child will write ‘See Blog’ in his/her planner.  This will be one of the last ‘paper’ information packages you will receive.  Our district is working towards paperless communication so the majority of information you receive from the school/myself will be digital, Mrs. Watkins will share school wide information via Facebook , the Parent Portal or on the Fairview Website.

Parent Helpers

I am attaching a parent helper sheet and welcome volunteers.  I realize that many of you may work during school hours and can’t volunteer during this time.  If this is the case and you have a day off sometime and would like to come in please let me know and I will try to arrange an activity where you can help or come for a visit.  Also, if you don’t mind completing some work in the evening, I have several jobs throughout the year where your assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Weekly Schedule

 We will have library book exchange on Thursdays (but there is a bin in our classroom for returns if your child is finished with his/her book before the week is up). We have music on Monday and Tuesday and our gym days are Wednesday (with Mrs. Boyes) and Thursday.

**Please note, however that the Ministry has mandated 30 minutes of physical activity each day so please ensure that your child is dressed comfortably and is ready for action!  We will be spending time outside rain or shine!  Finally, this week we will begin ‘Family Reading’ each Friday from 8:30-8:45.  Parents, grandparents and any other adult family members are invited to come in and read with a small group of students.  This is an informal reading time so younger siblings are also welcome.

Planners

Our class will be using a student ‘planner’ this year.  The planner is an essential part of our program and will provide home and school communication throughout the year as well as weekly spelling lists.  The planner will be sent home each afternoon in your child’s own ziploc bag and should be returned to school the following morning.  There is a specific area allotted for home/school communication so please feel free to write a note to me in this space (dental appointments, who is picking your child up etc.)  Please sign the planner daily once you have read with your child.  Also, please feel free to write encouraging comments for your child here.  IMPORTANT:  There is a plastic pocket at the front of the planner where notices will be sent home.  It is also where you can return signed permission slips, field trip money etc.  Please check this daily.  The payment for the planner can be made via the parent portal or you can send in the $7.00 in a clearly marked envelope (cash or cheque made out to Fairview Elementary.

We will be starting home reading tomorrow (a letter with more information will come home in the front pouch.

Supplies

Please send in your child’s supplies as soon as possible.  You should have already received this list but if you need a new one, please send me an email at Amanda_roberts@sd42.ca and I will send you an attachment.  The only additional supply we will need at this time is earbuds/headphones for the lab/iPads.  Please send these in a clearly marked baggie.  Having personal headphones will greatly reduce the chances of our students coming in contact with lice.  Thank you!

Scholastic Book Orders

Several times throughout the year your child will be bringing home Scholastic book order forms.  Purchasing these books is, of course optional but if you are interested they do offer engaging books at reasonable prices.  If you do purchase books I would ask that you please send a cheque payable to Scholastic Canada as they will not accept cash.  You also have the option of paying them directly online.  Thank you!

Themes

We are beginning the school year learning about each other and discussing the importance of being a good friend/classmate and beginning to build our classroom community. 

Class Celebrations

We will have four main celebrations during the year.  If you could please sign up to send snacks for the class on one of these dates that would be much appreciated.  I  have a sign up sheet ready near the entrance from the outside door.

Inside Shoes/Extra Clothes

If you have not already done so, I would like to ask you to send a pair of sturdy inside running shoes to help keep our classroom and gym clean.  I also suggest that each student have an extra set of clothes to keep at school.  This is helpful to have in case of any accidents and avoids the need for a phone call home.

West coast Recess/Lunch: 

Just a reminder that our district has adopted the ‘west coast recess’.  Students will be sent outside to play rain or shine (unless conditions are extreme).  With this in mind, please send your child to school with the appropriate gear so that they will be comfortable for the rest of the day. 

Thank you!

Important Dates in September

**Please note:  These will be on the class blog in the future.

September 24^th- Curriculum Day (no school for students)

September 25th-Picture Day

September 26th   -Terry Fox Run

 ***PLEASE NOTE: WALKING PERMISSION NEEDS TO BE GIVEN VIA THE PARENT PORTAL FOR YOUR CHILD TO PARTICIPATE OFF SITE FOR THE TERRY FOX RUN

Thank you, 

Amanda Roberts

June 14/18

Hi Everyone,

Happy Father's Day to all of the dads (and some of the moms who do double duty).  We hope you enjoy your gift! :)

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*all library books are due/also, please check your home for any classroom books
*next week your child will be bringing home a self-evaluation, report cards (from the teachers) will be sent out digitally this year
*thank you to all of our parent drivers for taking us to the field trip today and to the Loveridge family for showing us around their dairy farm
*next Friday we will be presenting an environmental poem after Family Reading if anyone would like to attend.  It will be short (and not very polished :)) but we like the poem and would enjoy sharing it with you
*next Friday is also Fun Day, volunteers are welcome;  it is supposed to be hot so please ensure that your children are dressed for the weather and are wearing a hat and sunscreen
*Poetry and More duotangs can be kept at home after tomorrow
*our class party will be happening on the afternoon of Tuesday, June 26th.  Thank you to the following people for sending in snacks:  Danika (fruit plate), Riana (veggie plate), Logan (cheese/crackers), Austyn (sweet treat), Landon (popcorn/chips) and Royce (other)
*please return mystery bags by Wednesday of next week.  Each bag should contain 5 books.  Thank you!
*if anyone would be willing to volunteer to take home manipulatives and wash them that would be greatly appreciated.  Each year I ask parents to do this so that they are clean and ready to go for the new class.  Thank you!

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!

Amanda Roberts

June 7/18

Hi Everyone,

Just to let you know, I have now updated the June calendar on this website.  As usual, June is shaping up to be a busy month :)

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*I still have a few people who haven't paid for their child's memory book.  If you aren't sure if you have paid, please email me at amanda_roberts@sd42.ca  (Cost:$10)
*Thank you in advance to the parents who are helping us by driving to the recycling depot field trip tomorrow.  I sent home a detailed email yesterday with information regarding this outing. This included a list of parent drivers and how many children you will be transporting.
*Our grade 7 students are putting on a Entrepreneur Fair next Thursday.  All items for sale have been made by the students and will cost between $1-$5.  Some of you may have received a 'pre-order' form if your child was interested in purchasing a mug or notebook that is personalized.
*Please sign up for the farm field trip if you have not already done so.  A big thank you to the parents who have already volunteered to drive and especially to Nevaeh's family for inviting us to see the farm.
*Reminder that our Volunteer Appreciation Tea (that's for you! :)) is next Tuesday afternoon.  Please send in your RSVP by tomorrow so that our committee can accurately shop for the event.  If you can't make it but have volunteered in any capacity  this year, I'd like to take the opportunity to personally thank you for your help.  It is much appreciated!
*Here are a few photos of our class doing pottery with Mrs. Howarth's class.  They were kind enough to share the pottery techniques that they had learned and we loved getting messy and creating art!
*We also had a great visit with Dan on Monday and learned a lot about earthworms (see below)

May 24/18

Hi Everyone,

We are all very excited about our field trip to Grouse tomorrow.  We hope the weather holds! :)

This will be a brief post as you all received a lengthy email yesterday regarding our field trip tomorrow.

Updates/Reminders/Thank you's

*thank you to our parent volunteers who are joining us for our Grouse trip tomorrow! (Mrs. Dhembi, Mrs. Krenbrink, Mrs. Kriel, Mrs. MacMhuirich and Mrs. Koshlay)  Please remember to bring a back pack to help carry lunches.  Clearly labeled, bagged lunches only, please.
*our next 'Mystery Bag' trade in will be next Wednesday.  Please ensure that your child has their book bag so that they can join in the fun :)  There is a lot of enthusiasm around drawing names for trading and the books themselves seem to be a big hit!
*a second school supply form was sent home yesterday. This was because I didn't check the forms before passing them out the first time so some students ended up with the wrong grade.  Sorry for the confusion.  Mrs. Evans has asked us to notify you that the  lists for each grade are now posted on the Fairview website in the 'Parents' section and can be printed if needed.
*a parent portal announcement will be sent to you tomorrow about our upcoming field trip to the recycling depot on June 8th.  Parent drivers will be needed for this.
*next week I will put up a permission form for our field trip to Nevaeh's family farm on June 14th.
*our bake sale to raise money for our school buddy bench is next Thursday, May 31st.  Baked goods and volunteers are needed.  Please see info pasted below from last week's blog for specific details.  Thank you all for your donations of baked goods and for sending in money so that your child can also purchase a treat.  Please email me at:  amanda_roberts@sd42.ca if you are able to volunteer at recess and/or lunch.

*we are hoping to host a bake sale on Thursday, May 31st.  As part of our compassion unit, we are trying to raise money for a 'buddy bench'.  This is a place where students can go if they can't find anyone to play with so that they can connect with other students who are in the same situation.  We would really appreciate if everyone could send in 1-2 dozen treats for us to sell on that day.  We also need parent volunteers to help set up at 9:30 and sell during recess-(from 9:50-10:25) and lunch 11:45-12:30)

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Amanda Roberts