Winter 2023

Oki, Tansi, Hello Families,

In February, we have been focusing on the Blackfoot Values of Kimmotsiisinii (Kindness). During our inquiry block, we have been learning about the Seven Teachings. This month we have focused on the Eagle, and the teaching of Love. We learned the Blackfoot song kitsiikakomim about saying I Love You.

Literacy

We have been continuing to focus on new letter and sound relationships. We have been focusing on word-initial and final sounds. We have been making our way through our letter names and the sounds they make. It is very important that your student knows their letter sounds in order to begin to blend sounds together to read short words. We use the "Secret Stories" program, which includes a story, and action for each letter. Ask your student to share with you the sounds they know. Moving into March, we are going to be spending time learning more high frequency words and learning about sentences. 

Numeracy

In numeracy, we have been spending time working on patterning and are moving into more shape and space activities. During daily math exploration, we have been working hard on recognizing, and representing numbers up to 10. We have practiced representing numbers with tally marks, ten frames, and with pictures. 

Reminders:

1. We try and go outside every day and explore the changes we see on the land and play. Please ensure your child has appropriate winter gear.

Important Dates:

February 14: Valentine's Day 

February 16 and 17: Teachers' Convention (NO SCHOOL)

February 20: Family Day (NO SCHOOL)

February 22: Pink Shirt Day (anti-bullying awareness)

March 10: Non-instruction Day (NO SCHOOL)

Fall 2022

Oki, Tansi, Hello Families,

Welcome to Kindergarten! My name is Ms. Rachel, and I am very fortunate to have joined the Niitsitapi Staff this year. I am looking forward to getting to know the students and families as we start a new school year together. 

I was born and raised in Malaysia, where I spent most of my early childhood. We moved to Edmonton after this, and then I eventually moved to Calgary. I am grateful to make my home on the lands of Treaty 7! On weekends, you will find me hiking in the mountains, or taking my dog (Harry) on a walk around the neighbourhood. The place I feel most connected to Na’a is in the mountains. Hiking with my family, and sitting down and listening to the nature surrounding us, truly brings me peace.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have. My email is rlg@ualberta.ca or you can contact the school at 403-817-3404 and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

Reminders:

Breakfast, lunch, and snack are provided here, but you are more than welcome to pack food with your child.

Please ensure your child has:

·       indoor shoes

·       change of clothes 

·       appropriate clothing depending upon weather 

Important Dates:

August 26: Splash Park field trip (Field trip forms were sent home)