CES Weekly Communicator

Gratitude is expressing appreciation for what you have and seeing the positive things in life you are grateful for. Showing gratitude has social, psychological, and physical benefits. Some tips for showing gratitude are making it a routine, staying genuine, and finding a format that works for you (letters, journaling, in person, gifts).

We have been working hard to learn about some of the celebrations in November. First we learned about Veteran’s Day. The students learned about the history of Veterans Day, jobs in the military, and sacrifices that military people make when they serve. Kindergarten read Hero Mom and Hero Dad, and learned about the jobs in the military. First and second grade read Celebrate Veterans Day, a nonfiction book about the history of the holiday. Third and fifth grade read Twenty-One Steps and watched a short news story about the sentinels of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Fourth grade read Reckless, about a horse who served in the Marine Corps during the Korean War. Students in grades 2 - 5 also explored a digital choice board to learn more about Veterans Day and the military.

This week we read books to celebrate Native American Heritage Month. Kindergarten read Berry Song, discussed family traditions, and learned how to say “Thank You” in Tlingit. First grade read Powwow Day, discussed what happens at a powwow, and learned to dance the Jingle Dance. Second and third grades listened to We Are Grateful Otsaliheliga, discussed celebrations of gratitude, and learned to say several Cherokee words. Fourth grade read We Are Water Protectors, discussed the connection Native Americans feel with nature, and briefly discussed the Dakota Access Pipeline. Fifth grade read Chester Nez and the Unbreakable Code, learned about the Navajo Code Talkers of WWII, watched a part of a video interview with Chester Nez, and discussed the difference between primary and secondary sources. I also challenged them to interview an older family member or friend about their life. Students in grades 2 - 5 also explored a digital choice board about Native American Nations, myths and legends, and about the Navajo Code Talkers.

For the next week and a half we will be reading and doing projects about Thanksgiving. Happy Reading!!