So, I must admit the concept of hibernation for a few months in the winter does not sound like a horrible idea to me in general. The problem right now is that it seems more like the thaw of spring than the onset of a deep freeze...to be clear, that is not a complaint in any form...merely an observation! My younger self looked forward to snow and enjoyed all four of our seasons equally, but my current frame tends to identify the colder weather with more aches and pains than serenity and peace.
Needless to say, we can begin preparing for a long winter break in just a few short days and whether we are now accustom to the schedule or the schedule fits our needs, everyone always seems to be ready for a little vacation.
At least the warmish weather did not create issues for the 8th graders dressed in poodle skirts and biker jackets as some of our 8th graders traveled back in time dressing up like characters from S.E.Hinton's THE OUTSIDERS today. They were able to end the day watching the movie to commemorate the completion of their reading of the novel.
7th graders have been celebrating the Season of Giving Project which focuses on researching various charities and philanthropic endeavors to inform others as to the importance and variety of all of these organizations. Different classes selected specific charities to research to better understand the intricacies and dynamics of the charities and to learn how to best discern which charities they feel are reputable and worthy of their support and which might not be as transparent in their operations as others. The critical thinking exhibited by the students has been wonderful and shows they can be very thoughtful and precise in how they decide to donate their future earnings vs their eagerness and or desire to buy every new product that grabs their attention or becomes their latest "must have".
It was nice to see many of you during the conferences this week; of course you were not here to see me, but I appreciated the number of people introducing themselves and helping me put faces to the family names. It is much easier to learn the students' first names as I see them in action throughout the building than to connect all of the different families and last names. Mr. McElhinney and I enjoy seeing parents' faces when we know who their children are because they assume if the principals know your child that is a bad thing. We are happy to say that it is not a bad thing at all here at Stony Brook.
Not that anyone needs this reminder I am sure, but Monday and Tuesday are full days next week. Wednesday is an early release day at 11:00 and we look forward to seeing everyone back from the break on Monday January 4, 2016!
Have a wonderful break! I hope it is full of joy and relaxation.
I will talk with you again next year,
Chris
