As an educator, I always look forward to September: leaves turning colour; a cool crispness kisses the air; new groups of students, heading to class, excited to learn and to make new friends, sparking school supplies (did I mention that I love school supplies!), an assortment of clubs & athletics … the possibilities seem endless.
Since the first day of school, I have met so many new students and I have welcomed so many previous students. It never ceases to amaze me how much change happens over a couple of months. Everyone seems taller, older, and much, much more mature.
As a principal, I have an amazing job – I get to teach and learn with teachers and students. Sometimes, I get to sneak into classrooms and become lost in the learning. While other times, I get to work, one-on-one with children or with small groups of students. Whether it's helping with math, recommending an awesome book, practicing regulation strategies, or helping with wellness (puzzles, tea, and putty are some of my favourites), I enjoy my quality time with your children. A huge thank you!
As a team, RTA teachers have already met to discuss field trips, athletics, computer literacy, science fair and our school development plan (in addition to team planning and school organization).
RTA Science Fair: All students will create a RTA Science Fair project. The Science Fair Project looks different in each grade. In grade 5, there is more structure, while in grades 7-9, students focus more on innovation. Some grades may use a digital format, while others may allow mini-trifolds. The majority of the Science Fair Project will be completed in the classroom. Grade team teachers work closely together to support students in brainstorming ideas, formating, researching, interpreting, gathering data, etc.
RTA SDP: Within the SDP (school development plan), we continue to focus on improving LITERACY – managing information in all disciplines and WELLNESS – creating a sense of belonging. With access to immediate information, how to we support students with online research, in selecting rich and reputable texts, in evaluating resources, and in synthesizing understanding? As a staff, we also brainstormed: What does it means to belong? How can we tell if a student belongs to a community? What words do students use, what actions do we see, if they feel like they belong?
In addition to the learning, RTA students are already running in cross country, bumping in volleyball, and kicking in soccer. Both inside and out, our students are connecting to the community.
We are looking forward to our Meet the Teacher this week as well. This will be an opportunity for families to meet with teachers, glimpsing into the classroom learning (D2L Classroom Shell; PowerSchool, Science Fair, Field Trips and classroom rules and routines).
A huge thank you to all of the families for your kind words and your support in this exciting September Start time.
Brenda Lewis
