Eagles' Extra

January felt like a soft transition from Christmas holidays to the second half of the school year, then February has kicked us up into hear gear. As I reflect on the past week it felt like our days were filled with activities, and when I look at the weeks moving foward they continue to be filled with activities and opportunities for our students to enjoy.

As a highlight for this week, I would like to make mention of how important community of Donalda is to our school. Thank you to our community coaches, Trent Erickson (girls' volleyball), Mary Mueller (curling), Patrick Simser (boys' basketball), Char Curtis (boys' basketball), Melissa Bergstrom (girls' basketball) and Dixie Massey (mini dunkers). Thank you to everyone involved with the pouring and maintaining the ice surface. As we transition from our Parent Council hot lunch program to our nutrition program, I would like to thank all the parents that were involved in providing a weekly hot lunch, as well as the many other facets our Parent Council provides for our school. Thank you to Teresa Kneeland and Candice Erickson for their leadership and contibution to our school's nutrition program. And last, but not least, I would like to thank the Agricultural Society. Over the past year we have leaned on the Ag Society to provided spaces to host a variety of events, as well as the use of their kitchen for our nutrition program. The Ag Society has generously donated the use of the hall to the school which is very much appreciated!

Mrs. Cherewko, or more well known as Mrs. C, has decided to take an employment opportuntiy in Stettler that she could not pass on. Mrs. C's last day at Donalda School will be this Wednesday. This year was the tenth year Mrs. C has worked at Donalda School, and I want to thank her for everything she has contributed to our school from play school to her work with our inclusive students to the crazy games she comes up with for our students and staff to participate in. The Donalda School community wishes Mrs. C all the best in her new venture!

I was thrilled to have Teresa and Candice back working alongside our junior high students. This week the grade 9s had their turn to cook and serve our school community, and it was top notch as expected. This next week the grade 8s will have their turn to cook, and chicken caesar salad wraps are on the menu.

Congratulations to our curling team who placed 2nd in the CARA Bonspiel on Thursday. The team went undefeated into the finals, where they lost in extra ends. Mr. Brown and I do not know when the last time we had a team medal, so this is a great accomplishment for our school! Mr. Brown commended our boys, Easton, Jaden, Bentley, Austin and Connor, for their sportsmanship and teamwork. Great job!

Meagan is one of the most kind, caring and conscientious students Mr. Nielson have ever known. She works hard on all of her classroom assignments, is willing to help out any time she is asked, and even finds ways to help those around her. She has a great artistic talent in line drawing and using other art mediums. Meagan is confident in her work, yet respectfully humble about her incredible academic and artistic talents. She would never say an unkind word to anyone, and brightens up the world wherever she goes!

Lucinda is always offering to lend a hand and is considerate of her classmates. On her own, Lucinda noticed that a peer, who had been absent the previous week, would not have logged in or started our social project. She asked me if she would be able to help her classmate during her own time. This was a very selfless and thoughtful act, Lucinda! Way to go!

Meg volunteered her recess to clean up spilled hot chocolate that was on the table in the playground area. Her motivation was to make the table a clean area for her and other students to draw at recess. Meg was able to lead other students in cleaning the areas for two recesses. Thank you Meg for keeping our school yard clean and for thinking of others!

This past week, Lily took time out of her own free time to organize and straighten up our classroom library This small gesture really made my day and improved the look and organization of our room.

Lily often contributes small acts of kindness like this for our room, and they don’t go unnoticed. Thanks for all you hard work, Lily!

Viktor has been an amazing member of our Grade 9 Leadership team here at Donalda School this year. However, I was particularly impressed this week when Viktor brought a pre-recorded sheet of potential suggestions and feedback for discussion. The organization and thoughtfulness displayed here helps to improve our school for everyone. Greek work Viktor!

Since Christmas break Kyra has been working hard at completing the learning tasks given to her, and advocating for herself when she needs help. These are two important attributes as a learner. Great work, Kyra!

Monday, February 12th:

• Boys' Basketball Practice

Tuesday, February 13th:

• Mini Dunkers
• Girls' Basketbal Practice

Wednesday, February 14th:

• Curling (Grades 1-6 - Helmets are required)
• Nutrition Program with TC Catering
• Boys' & Girls' Basketball Game @ Wm E Hay

Thursday, February 15th:

• No School - Teachers' Convention

Friday, February 16th:

• No School - Teachers' Convention

**NOTE: Swimming lessons will be offered during school hours in March. Please watch for more information to come home.