Dear Koala and Loon Families,

I have some exciting news to share! You’re invited to the 2nd annual First Grade Market will be the morning of Friday, March 15th. This market began with the inspiration of last year’s Loon class and Ms. Rowley’s teaching experience in Africa. After reading the children’s book, The Water Princess The Loons became passionate about the water crisis and with Miss Rowley guidance they convinced the others first grade classrooms to raise money to help make a difference. The book was read again this year and the Loons and Koalas want to continue this tradition.  

Our little philanthropists spent time thinking about ways they could help. Our brainstorm came up with ideas like delivering water bottles to them via planes, sending bricks to build a well and even taking a field trip to Burkina Faso to help with well construction. We ultimately landed on fundraising and then thought of ways we could do this. The kids have decided to sell their own “goods” to raise money for this important cause. We will work this in class but they are welcome to create at home too!

In the meantime we have be learning a lot about how this water crisis affects children in other countries. The empathy the Loons and Koalas have shown has been really inspiring! They are so passionate about helping others in every way they can. Not only have the decided to make a difference but they have also been quick to get started. The first graders have been responsible for everything from the idea to the planning. We are excited to continue this process with them and we will soon be able to Skype with Princess Gie Gie herself.

Last year’s efforts raised over $2,000 and was a very rewarding experience for us all. The Georgie Badiel Foundation has reported to us that our efforts are unprecedented. We look forward to this process with our current Loon and Koala Families. We feel this is an invaluable experience for them all!

Thank you for your support,

Jessie Caldwell and Lindsay Rowley

Celebrating Read Across America Next Week
Spirit Week themes chosen by our Student Council begins 

• Monday: with Sports Genre Day - dress up in your favorite sports gear. 
• Tuesday: Fairy tale Day 
• Wednesday: Wacky Glasses Day 
• Thursday: Book Character Day 
• Friday: PJ Day

Some things we did this week:

• How planes fly
• How wells are built
• Had a blast exchanging valentines! 
• Practiced proofreading
• Made paper airplanes and tested our designs