Two More Days Until Winter Break

Hello Third Grade Families!

We are coming close to the end of the first semester of third grade! It's hard to believe that almost half of the school year has already gone by. We have such a great class, and when I count my blessings, our little community is definitely high on the list! 

I have had several unexpected absences in the last several weeks. My dad was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease back in 2013, and up until recently, his symptoms were relatively minor. His condition began to decline over the summer, though, and in the last month his health has really taken quite a turn for the worse. I have needed to take some days to be with him while my step-mom, his primary caretaker, has needed to be out of town. I have explained this to the class and they have shared their kind and caring hearts with me through this time. 

In the last week, my dad was approved for in-home hospice care. It's hard to know how long he will be with us, but we're hearing from many health care professionals that he is still very healthy and could be with us for a long time (six months or more). I am hoping that I won't need to have any more unexpected absences, but I wanted to let you all know what is going on so that if I do need to be gone, you know the reason. 

And now, to the fun part of this update! :) 

We have two days of school left before winter break, and we have several fun holiday activities planned. 

Wednesday:

Holiday Sweater/ Ugly Sweater (or as our class decided to call them "Funky Sweater") Day

• Your child is invited to wear a fun sweater or sweatshirt to school.

Thursday:

Pajama Day

• Your child is invited to wear their pajamas to school. Slippers are okay to bring, but your child will need to wear shoes for recess and P.E.
• We will also be having a "read in" on Thursday, so your child is invited to bring a flashlight, books, and a small pillow or blanket if they would like. These items are all optional. 
• We will also be taking our Week 15 Spelling test, as well as completing some fun holiday math and writing activities. 
• We will be watching The Polar Express in the afternoon. 

I hope you all have a wonderful winter break and are able to enjoy rest, relaxation, and fun together. I will look forward to seeing you all again in 2020 when students report back to school on Tuesday, January 7th!