April 29th, 2020 – Message from Ms. Sandberg

I write this just having listened to the Minster of Education’s press conference updating us on the state of education in our province.

I came away thinking that there is a need and desire to get our lives back to “normal” but that those making the decisions for us want to consider all factors and make careful choices, with the health of all in mind. So, we continue to wait for further information…

One comment that was repeated often during the press conference was, do not try to be your child’s teacher. The issue is trying to find a balance between having to assist your child and having opportunities for him or her to develop independence when learning. This happens in the regular classroom too.

In discussions with our staff, some of the suggestions that are working for families in order to develop independence with the children are:

–          Have a set routine. Start times and break times. Younger students will not be able to focus as long, as older students. Break the day into sections.

–          Have a set place to work, away from distractions, if possible.

–          Look at the assignments received and see which ones can be attempted by the child independently.

–          If there is an older sibling in the house, have them check the younger child’s work or assist them with directions.

–          Some activities, especially with younger students can be done as a whole family. Particularly, if there are toddlers in the house who want to join in.

–          Family discussions about assignments or topics reinforce what the child is learning.

As a staff, we have been discussing the importance of focusing on the essential skills and learning that needs to be completed this year. With the younger students, it is reading, writing, Math, and Christian Education. Other subject areas may be introduced. With the older students, the basics remain the same, however, the skills will often be integrated into other subject areas. Our French, Music and PE teachers are also sending out assignments that they need the students to complete. However, these assignments are more in video or game format. They can be used as movement breaks.

As always, we ask our students to do their best.

Stay safe,
Joan Sandberg
Principal