2020 here we come...

The end of the year is always an excellent time for reflection (though most times generally are).   I want to extend a personal note of gratitude for how fortunate I feel to have become part of the East Prairie community this past year.  This is truly a phenomenal community of kids, educators, and families!

On behalf of our school, we hope that you enjoy the extended time together as a family.  We wish you and your family a wonderful winter break and a very happy New Year! We are looking forward to 2020, and to the many successes, celebrations, and challenges that lie ahead, as well as, the memories to be made along the way!

Performing Arts Excellence

Another phenomenal performance last night!  Congratulations to our EPS bands and dancers, as well as, Mr. Berlinghof and Ms. DeCamp on a sensational show!  Thank you to Mr. Chiuppi, Mr. Stephen, Mr. Krieznowski, & Mr. Kowalski for getting the venue showcase ready. 

 

 It was wonderful to see so many proud and smiling families come together for an evening filled with the sounds of some really outstanding music (and dancing).

Standing Ovation!

Congratulations to Ms. Pasia and our amazing kindergarten, first, second, and third grade singers, as well as, the incredible 4th and 5th grade choir!  Thank you to all of our families that came out.  It was a capacity crowd that packed the house for our inaugural musical performance!  

Thank you to the primary, intermediate, and specials teams for their support and supervision.  Thank you to Ms. Wade-Kuzwayo for the beautiful artwork that accompanied the show.  Simply a sensational evening for the entire school!  

The Marshmallow Challenge

 

This morning our team engaged in some rigorous construction as they furiously worked together to build the tallest free standing structure that could support a marshmallow atop.  Provided 20 pieces of spaghetti, 3 feet of string, 3 feet of tape, and one marshmallow, I think the results speak for themselves.

Our time together as a whole school team is precious and we use it to build community, strengthen our relationships and communication with one another, while tackling complex issues related to our school, students, families, and communities.

Though a simple (and fun) team building activity, the takeaways for teaching, learning, assessment, feedback, mindset, assumptions, equity, collaboration, and collegiality are limitless.  We have an outstanding team and we continue to "build" upon our strong foundation!

A Mindful Mindset

At East Prairie, the purpose of “mindfulness” is to acknowledge what is going on and be aware of it.  We teach, and seek to live these practices ourselves, to gain a greater sense of control over thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as, teach our brains new and better ways of thinking and functioning (Silver & Stafford, 2017; Wolkin, 2015).

These ongoing schoolwide sessions bring us together in unique and creative ways, fostering both community and enhanced self efficacy.

And oh yeah...the primary session was entirely student led. Way to go 2nd grade! Thanks for helping us to Breathe like a bear!

Glovember - student leadership

Thank you for any help that you can provide to our Glovember glove drive.  Donations can be turned into the front office.  This is an outstanding example of a student led project that makes a difference within our school and community!  Way to go Panthers!