By Kandice Kimmel, Latin & History 5th-8th

Sixth grade has partnered with first grade for our community service project this year, and what a beautiful partnership it is! Both classes visited Cornerstone Retirement Community to paint rocks and get to know the residents. I am so proud of the kindness and love all of the St. James students displayed during this creative project. Giving the gift of our time and conversations the students were able to build meaningful connections and bring smiles and laughter to a few senior citizens.

‘Without community service, we would not have a strong quality of life. It is important to the person who serves as well as the recipient. It’s the way in which we ourselves grow and develop.’ -Dorothy Height

By Susie Rogers, 5th-8th ELA

In Natalie Babbitt's timeless novel, Tuck Everlasting, the concept of everlasting life takes center stage, weaving a thought-provoking narrative that challenged our understanding of mortality. Set in a quaint rural town, the story revolved around the discovery of a hidden spring that granted immortality to those who drank from it. As the students followed the young protagonist, Winnie Foster, on her journey, they encountered subtle hints and glimpses of the consequences of eternal life. However, it's the unexpected plot twist that truly captivated the students to beg for just another chapter, Mrs. Rogers! Students debated on what Winnie would do when she was faced with a life-altering decision that tested her understanding of the world and the price of everlasting life. The students didn’t want the novel to end, which is a win for any teacher. They now will compose a response contemplating the profound implications of such a gift and the sacrifices it may entail and discuss their viewpoints with their peers.

By Kandice Kimmel, Latin & History 5th-8th

We hit the ground running in sixth grade! In Latin we reviewed the present and imperfect tense of sum. Studying Latin with its highly organized grammar, makes us coordinate ideas, reflect on various ways to say the same thing, and thus helps us to write and speak better English!

In History we are studying ancient civilizations and the students created their own cave art! Cave paintings may have been central in the development of symbolic thinking and the emergence of language. They provide valuable insights into the lives, beliefs, and artistic capabilities of our ancient ancestors.