MOON PHASES, LIBRARY & EGYPTIAN PYRAMIDS

STEM Fridays are always fun in first grade. Students learned all about the phases of the moon and put their knowledge to the test with a tasty lunar model. Students demonstrated a new moon, quarter moon, crescent moon and full moon by scraping away (and eating) cookie icing. Who knew science could be so delicious!

Wow! Our school library was upgraded over the summer and the first visit of the school year did not disappoint. Students were welcomed into the updated library by colorful seating and an interactive hopscotch pad to enter and exit the reading area. The library also has many new and exciting books to choose from and students cannot wait for their next visit.

In a recent study of ancient Egypt first graders learned about The Great Pyramid, The Great Sphinx and one famous Egyptian pharaoh: King Tutankhamen. Students created their own pyramids with golden tops like The Great Pyramid’s original design.

Jaclyn Thane
SUPER SEPTEMBER

First graders practice reading decodable books multiple times throughout the day. One fun way to read independently is with Whisper Phones! Students can hear themselves read and this also keeps the classroom volume down. Whisper phones are also used in class to hear the sounds in words.

Last week, students wrote about how they have fun with their friends and gave details about what games they play and activities they do with friends. Afterwards, students read their sentences aloud and participated in a “Compliment Circle” where they gave positive feedback to each other about writing and illustrations. Each student practiced speaking in complete sentences and looking one other in the eyes when they spoke.

First graders are also learning about the Sun, Earth, and Moon and created models to demonstrate differences in daytime and nighttime.

Playtime still remains to be students’ favorite activity as they come to school. They love to start the day with social interaction, movement and playing before beginning more structured learning.

Jaclyn Thane
FANTASTIC IN FIRST

WOW! How has it already been four weeks of school? Students have recently practiced their knowledge of fact families within 10. They quiz each other using fluency cards and creating math mystery stories for their partner to solve. Students are mastering the skill of subatizing: quickly and accurately recognizing the number of items in a set without counting. They use “5-group cards” to practice this skill.

First graders participate in small group learning every day. Small groups consist of literacy and math activities that reinforce what they have already learned. Students also participate in a small group with the teacher where they are introduced to new concepts and also build upon mastered skills.

Recently, students explored different ways to have fun with apples. They created an apple boat and tested its ability to float, painted apple trees with apples cut in half, and even tried to balance them on their heads. Did you know there is a hidden star inside of apples? Students also enjoyed taste-testing different types of apples.

Jaclyn Thane
WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOL!

What an exciting start to first grade! The first couple weeks have been filled with learning, building friendships, and exploring new routines.

In the classroom, students have been practicing their writing skills in fun ways—using sand trays, writing notebooks, and hands-on activities. They’ve also been busy with building projects, puzzles, and creative play. By using STEM bins in the mornings students get to “play” while also strengthening their problem-solving and teamwork skills.

Morning routines are already off to a great start, with students unpacking, completing their check-in routine, and settling into the day with confidence and independence. It’s wonderful to see how quickly they are adjusting to first grade expectations.

Play and exploration have also been a big part of our days! From building with blocks and Legos to imaginative play with animals and connecting pieces, students are developing cooperation skills and showing so much creativity.

We are so proud of how hard these first graders are working already. The energy, smiles, and excitement in the classroom are the perfect start to a great year ahead!

Jaclyn Thane
Spring Musical and End of the Year FUN!

There’s something magical about a school musical — the lights, the costumes, the weeks of preparation, and of course, the boundless energy of students taking center stage. This year’s production, The Little Mermaid, was a true showcase of talent and teamwork. From the powerful solos to the perfectly timed choreography, every scene reflected the dedication and passion of our young performers. Behind the scenes, students worked just as hard — managing props, designing sets, and ensuring every song and line was stage-ready.

 

The lead roles were performed in a way that was both entertaining and emotionally moving. Supporting roles added depth and humor. The ensemble filled the stage with energy and harmony, transforming group numbers into full-blown spectacles. It was refreshing to witness the power of live performance — a reminder of how creativity, collaboration, and courage can come together to create something truly unforgettable.

Our last compliment circle of the year was a sweet one. The class cheered when I told them we were going to circle up and start the day with positivity. It is always a great way to start the day and end the year. I will miss these kindhearted kiddos!

First grade participated in their first field day!

It has been a phenomenal year. I will always remember this group of students and can’t wait to see what their future holds.

Claire Gordon