This time of year can be stressful for everyone. Not only are we preparing for the holidays, but those of us in education are revisiting plans after the release of School Performance Scores. We are planning on how to make the most of the months leading up to testing season. While we are proud of the growth we accomplished, we understand there is more work to be done and not much time to do it.
We have already implemented many changes that we are confident will continue to improve student performance. However, we are not done. The school leadership team and our transformation specialist have worked alongside Dr. Bressler to review and revise our School Improvement Plan. We have also used feedback from the parent survey to improve the educational experience for students and parents. We are constantly considering what else can be done to support our teachers, students, and families. If you would like to learn more about our plans, please make plans to attend the upcoming Coffee & Chat on December 14 at 4:30 p.m. Dr. Bressler will be sharing our action plan.
You can also assist us by continuing to support your scholar and their teacher(s) at home by encouraging students to spend some time over the Winter Break reviewing previously learned material. I am sure you are thinking, “With all there is to do, the last thing I need is to add the stress of making my child do schoolwork over the holidays.” I challenge you to think back to when you were in school. Do you remember special projects like creating holiday meals on a budget using sale ads? This project has embedded math, social studies, and language skills. Below are a few fun ideas you can have your scholars’ complete while on break. Not only will you be hiding academics within fun activities, but it will also be an excellent opportunity to spend quality time enjoying the holidays instead of stressing over your To Do list.
The ideas below are just suggestions. They are not required assignments. You can find many more creative activities online by searching for educational holiday activities.
English Language Arts
Compare and contrast books vs. movies
- Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Various Grades)
- The Polar Express (grades 2-8)
- A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens (grades 6-8)
Math/Social Studies
- Christmas Dinner on a Budget
- Christmas Around the World
- Compare Hannukah, Kwanzaa, and Christmas: Which is more expensive to celebrate? Where did the tradition begin?
Math/Science
- How many feet of garland or light strings are needed to decorate the tree?
- How many days will a Poinsettia last outdoors in New Orleans?
- How long will it take a candy cane to dissolve in different water temperatures?