It is most definitely that time of the year again for our intermediate students. Already our fourth graders have completed their state assessment in Writing, and all three grades will soon be faced with the Reading and Math TAKS tests (And let’s not forget Mr. McBride’s 5th grade Science TAKS test). With benchmark testing behind us, teachers are spiraling in on skills that are sure to increase student confidence and production. The level of commitment and passion being exhibited by all of the instructors is to be commended. Students are engrossed in learning and specific needs are being tackled based on the data that has been collected. Consequently, I think that this video is exactly what we all need. I do hope that you enjoy it as much as I did.
Last Sunday, the pastor ended his sermon with a statement that has stuck in the forefront my thoughts. I plan to share his statement later on in this posting, but allow me to take you back for just a moment.
I know that you remember the poster labeled with the above title. The first time I took the time to read this poster, I thought, “That is so true.” I think that I stood there and nodded my head with each revelation. I may have even uttered under my breath a few “Amens.” It was inspiring to read Robert Fulghum’s recollections. I urge you to click on the title and reread his thoughts for yourselves. Most likely it will bring you back to some unforgotten truths.
Returning to my original thought, the subject of the sermon was kindness, and while the pastor did not draw upon Fulghum’s statements, he did transport us back to our childhood. The observation was made that valuable life lessons could have been gained from the many children’s films to which we were repeated exposed during our younger years. One specifically mentioned was The Beauty and the Beast. The lesson, and his memorable statement, was this, “Unlovely things must be deeply loved before they can become lovable.”
(Pictures from Disney-clipart.com) I absorbed that statement and began to think about students and what we mustdo to bring about the educational transformation that must take place during this school year. We have been gathering data on each student since the first day of school and using that data to help formulate an academic plan to ensure success for each student. For some, the plan develops more easily, and for others the plan demands that we teach more deeply before we reach that teachable stage where the goal can be realized. The level of commitment on the part of our White Oak Intermediate teachers to take students where they are and transport them to new heights is admirable. We believe ALL students can be and will be successful. The entire faculty believes together we can move the most frustrated student into his own realm of success. And like we all learned as children, and it is still true, no matter how old you are, when you go out into the world, it is best to hold hands and stick together.
That’s right! Fourth grade classes gathered on Friday afternoon to do some Halloween caroling. I hope that you enjoy listening to them as much as I did.
Yes, I am very proud. This is my grandson, Tyler. This is the first time he has ever sung in public, and I know it takes a lot of courage to get up in front of a large group and perform. He has many talents, and you can read about some of those on his blog, Tyler’s Talking. He is also a member of Mrs. Carrington’s Bright Spots, Gifted and Talented group. You make smile with pride!
Our teachers will go to any Xtreme to motivate students. This statement holds true as evidenced by MacXtreme McBride’s participation in the Napoleon Dance during the Fall Talent Show.
Our 4th grade gifted and talented students took this season a step further this week when they brought pumpkins “punked out” as their favorite person(s). These students are members of Mrs. Carrington’s Bright Spots, and you can read all about them and their interests on their class blog. There is no denying that this group is not only academically talented, but creatively exceptional as well. You may visit Mrs. Elder’s library to view all of these pumpkins. Thank you for sharing with us.
This has been an amazing week! Our students and staff have gone all out to promote Red Ribbon Week, and I am esteemly proud to be a part of this group. Even with crazy socks, sunglasses, hats, and dressed in full-camo attire, our students have managed to dig in and work hard for their teachers. Each day I have been featuring pictures of the students, but today I think I will focus on the teachers. These leaders really rose to the occasion and decked out to show that they too support being drug-free. Thank you, staff, for participating in a worthwhile cause that makes a bold statement to our students.
I know that it comes as no surprise, but the winner of the Team Building Mummies is Purple People Eaters with Boo-D-Licious Mummy. Congratulations and thank you to all who voted. Watch for more contests up and coming!
We are nearing the end of our Red Ribbon Week, and the students and staff have participated fully. Every day support for living drug free lives has been evident either in crazy socks, sunshades, hats, caps, or team shirts. After the festivities have ended, White Oak Elementary will continue to do the right thing.
Hats Off to White Oak Primary and Intemediate Campuses!
I know that it comes as no surprise, but the winner of the Team Building Mummies is Purple People Eaters with Boo-D-Licious Mummy. Congratulations and thank you to all who voted. Watch for more contests up and coming!
