Reflecting on December and Looking Forward to Exciting Adventures in 2024!

As we bid farewell to December, it’s hard to believe how quickly the month flew by. The holiday season brought joy and warmth to our hearts, especially during our Christmas concert where the class showcased their musical talents with a delightful array of band instruments. It was a moment to cherish, witnessing the students come together to create beautiful music and spread festive cheer.

One of the highlights of the month was our field trip to the CP Center and St. Norbert’s Abbey. The experience was not only fulfilling but also touched the lives of our community. The joy and connection we shared with others reinforced the importance of compassion and community outreach, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.

Secret Santa was a success! I loved seeing the excitement and gratitude each day from the class when we passed out the thoughtful gifts. The loved celebrating each other and the season the last week before break. We are also so incredibly thankful that Mrs. DeLeers helped spread holiday cheer to our class and hosted a Christmas Party. We had an absolute blast. Her generosity and thoughtfulness was appreciated by everyone. THANK YOU!

As we step into the new year, we are starting a new Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Unit with a special emphasis on Emotion Management. Students will explore strategies to anticipate and handle strong emotions such as stress, frustration, and anger. By identifying recurring situations that trigger these emotions, the class will learn to make positive changes to better navigate their emotional responses. This handout was sent home for you to take a look at.

A new adventure awaits us as we kick off the year by taking our PK Buddies to Mass every other week, starting on January 5th. This initiative not only fosters a sense of responsibility but also strengthens the bond between students across different grades. We are excited to help share the beauty of Mass with our buddies.

In our pursuit of Middle School Mode, the second trimester introduced aspects of middle school expectations, including participation points, shorter transition times, study hall, and independent research. As we approach the third trimester beginning in mid-February, our journey into Middle School Mode will officially commence. The class will experience closely mirrored expectations and school work, providing a glimpse into the exciting challenges that await them in the upper grades.

January promises to be packed with excitement, including a field trip with the Middle Schoolers to NDA to watch their musical production, Annie. Additionally, Catholic Schools Week, starting on the last Sunday in January, will bring a ton of fun activities and celebrations. Keep an eye out for more information regarding both of these events in an upcoming parent folder.

As we reflect on the whirlwind that was December, we eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead in 2024. With a focus on emotional intelligence, community building, and transitioning to Middle School Mode, the class is set to embark on a journey filled with growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences. Get ready for a month of fun, exploration, and continued development as we embrace the opportunities that the new year brings!

Remember to look on our Google Drive for more pictures! Link in Classroom Information tab.

I also want to give another quick “thank you” to the families who thought of me this Christmas Season. I am so incredibly grateful for the thoughtful gifts. They were not expected, but immensely appreciated. Being your child’s teacher at Holy Cross is the biggest blessing and best gift. I hope you all had a fantastic Christmas and New Year.

~Mrs. A