The SMASH Jog-a-thon is next Friday, March 4!
Only one more week to get pledges!
Pledge packets are due Thursday, March 3
The Jog-a-thon schedule is as follows:
9:00 – 9:35 Core 1 (Candis) and Core 4 (Darwin) Warm up & Run
9:40 - 10:15 Core 1 (Chrysta) and Core 3 (Orange) Warm up and Run
10:20 – 10:55 Core 2 (Tamara) and Core 3 (Blue) Warm up and Run
11:00 - 11:35 Core 1 (Graciela), Core 2 (Laura) and Core 4 (Kurt) Warm up & Run
Come and cheer for our amazing athletes!
Don’t miss out on this action-packed, fun-filled day at SMASH.
We still need volunteers to count laps and hand out water.
To volunteer, contact Lillie Schlessinger at lillie.schlessinger@transamerica.com
Runners, please remember to apply sunscreen and wear athletic shoes
******************
Dear SMASH Families,
The main message of “Race to Nowhere” is that US high stakes tests and high pressure culture has invaded children’s schools and lives. Childhood has been taken over by performance and competition. As a result, we have an epidemic of unhealthy, disengaged and unprepared young people. We can’t wait for institutional and policy changes to make the changes kids need today.
At SMASH, we strive to facilitate dynamic experiential learning with meaningful feedback instead of test scores or grades, we look to take care of the whole child/whole family unit by looking at ways to manage homework loads and provide healthy physical emotional social outlets. And we are always a work in progress towards strengthening these qualities.
SMASH families watched this film about societal trends then stayed for a facilitated panel of SMASH alums who have gone on to various high schools (Samohi, Marlborough, New Roads, and Independent Study high school). Here are some of their thoughts:
Question: What helped prepare you for high school life after SMASH?
Answers: “SMASH showed me how to find people I can ask for help.” “I talked to high school friends ahead of time and learned about the potential workload.” “I considered the overall workload I was ready to tackle and selected courses to match so I only took AP classes in areas I’m really interested in.” “The customized learning at SMASH helped me learn to put in enough effort to get what I want out of high school.” “SMASH taught me to ask at least one good question aloud in every class [period].”
Question: What are the biggest sources of stress for you in high school?
Answers: “Teacher pressure…my own pressure…math…writing…amount of homework…test anxiety…am I studying enough to be prepared for the test…peer college hysteria…SATs and college applications.
Question: What helps you cope with stress?
Answers: “Stress will not help, just do what you need to do.” “Stay fed.” “Stay in the moment and enjoy the high school experience.” “Breathe, drink tea.” “It’s not the end of the world if an assignment isn’t done or you get one bad grade.” “Stay involved in school, not just academics.” “Think of yourself above homework. Set boundaries about when you do homework.” “Take a ‘catch up’ day off of school.” “Have a personal talent/escape.” “Listen to your kids’ ideas
about their schedule.” “Shower and sleep.”
Question: What advice would you give to parents about how to help their kids?
Answers: “I could have written a book in the amount of time I’ve lost on Facebook.” “The beginning of high school is hard to adjust to, let kids get into the rhythm with support, don’t rub it in if they start with some bad grades.” “Manage AP/honors load based on what student says s/he can do.” “Listen to your kids and make sure they find joy in high school.”
I encourage you to think of your personal commitment to change in your family as a result of reflecting on the themes of the film. Perhaps you have a new question you will ask your child at the end of the day about the fun they had that day or maybe you’ll look at your activity schedule and preserve more unstructured play time in a week. The staff and I are interested in hearing your thoughts if you’d like to email them. Thanks to the dozen families who have already shared
via email what you felt was important for your family based on seeing the film and hearing the panelists.
Jessica
*******************
SMASH & John Muir Student Councils Presents
DR. SEUSS DAY!
Wear your pajamas and bring a book to read to school!
Wednesday, March 2
(make sure to dress so that you are able to participate in all activities, including PE!)
We will also be having a community group meeting
*******************
*******************
DATES TO REMEMBER
Fri, Feb 25 - NO Family Dance-Rescheduled to Fri, April 1
Mon, Feb 28 - 9:00-10:15am - SMASH Tour
Wed, Mar 2 - Dr Seuss Pajama Day & Community Group Meeting
Fri, Mar 4 - Jog-a-thon. See Jog-a-thon schedule
Mon, Mar 7 - 9:00-10:15am - SMASH Tour
Fri, Mar 11 - Core 3/4 Dance
Wed, Mar 30 - Talent Show
*******************
WEDNESDAY BAKE SALE DATES
CORE 1: Mar 16, May 4
CORE 2: March 2, March 30, May 11
CORE 3: Apr 6, May 18
CORE 4: Mar 9, Apr 27, May 25
TEACHER APPRECIATION LUNCH CORE 2: Mar 18; CORE 3: Apr 1; CORE 4: May 13
*******************
FEBRUARY IS FITNESS TESTING MONTH
One mile run, push-ups, sit-ups, trunk lift, sit ‘n reach
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD IS WEARING APPROPRIATE
SHOES AND CLOTHING TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS TESTING
Running Dates: 7th Grade - Mon, Feb 28; 8th Grade; Wed, Mar 2; 5th grade March Wed, Thurs 2 & 3
*******************
THE THREE PENNY OPERA
February 24-25 & March 2, 3 & 4 @ 7:00 pm
Santa Monica High School's Humanities Center Theater
Adults: $15. Students: $10 Purchase tickets online @ http://www.samohitheatre.org
SMASH alum Olivia Mugalian is featured in this play
*******************
ROSIE’S GIRLS SPRING CHALLENGE
April 11-15, 8:30 AM-5 PM with Extended Care Available from 7-8:30 AM and5-6 PM for an Extra $35
Fee: Residents $325 non-residents $430 w/ additional $25 materials fee. Financial assistance available.
Dear SMASH Families,
The main message of “Race to Nowhere” is that US high stakes tests and high pressure culture has invaded children’s schools and lives. Childhood has been taken over by performance and competition. As a result, we have an epidemic of unhealthy, disengaged and unprepared young people. We can’t wait for institutional and policy changes to make the changes kids need today.
At SMASH, we strive to facilitate dynamic experiential learning with meaningful feedback instead of test scores or grades, we look to take care of the whole child/whole family unit by looking at ways to manage homework loads and provide healthy physical emotional social outlets. And we are always a work in progress towards strengthening these qualities.
SMASH families watched this film about societal trends then stayed for a facilitated panel of SMASH alums who have gone on to various high schools (Samohi, Marlborough, New Roads, and Independent Study high school). Here are some of their thoughts:
Question: What helped prepare you for high school life after SMASH?
Answers: “SMASH showed me how to find people I can ask for help.” “I talked to high school friends ahead of time and learned about the potential workload.” “I considered the overall workload I was ready to tackle and selected courses to match so I only took AP classes in areas I’m really interested in.” “The customized learning at SMASH helped me learn to put in enough effort to get what I want out of high school.” “SMASH taught me to ask at least one good question aloud in every class [period].”
Question: What are the biggest sources of stress for you in high school?
Answers: “Teacher pressure…my own pressure…math…writing…amount of homework…test anxiety…am I studying enough to be prepared for the test…peer college hysteria…SATs and college applications.
Question: What helps you cope with stress?
Answers: “Stress will not help, just do what you need to do.” “Stay fed.” “Stay in the moment and enjoy the high school experience.” “Breathe, drink tea.” “It’s not the end of the world if an assignment isn’t done or you get one bad grade.” “Stay involved in school, not just academics.” “Think of yourself above homework. Set boundaries about when you do homework.” “Take a ‘catch up’ day off of school.” “Have a personal talent/escape.” “Listen to your kids’ ideas
about their schedule.” “Shower and sleep.”
Question: What advice would you give to parents about how to help their kids?
Answers: “I could have written a book in the amount of time I’ve lost on Facebook.” “The beginning of high school is hard to adjust to, let kids get into the rhythm with support, don’t rub it in if they start with some bad grades.” “Manage AP/honors load based on what student says s/he can do.” “Listen to your kids and make sure they find joy in high school.”
I encourage you to think of your personal commitment to change in your family as a result of reflecting on the themes of the film. Perhaps you have a new question you will ask your child at the end of the day about the fun they had that day or maybe you’ll look at your activity schedule and preserve more unstructured play time in a week. The staff and I are interested in hearing your thoughts if you’d like to email them. Thanks to the dozen families who have already shared
via email what you felt was important for your family based on seeing the film and hearing the panelists.
Jessica
*******************
SMASH & John Muir Student Councils Presents
DR. SEUSS DAY!
Wear your pajamas and bring a book to read to school!
Wednesday, March 2
(make sure to dress so that you are able to participate in all activities, including PE!)
We will also be having a community group meeting
*******************
*******************
DATES TO REMEMBER
Fri, Feb 25 - NO Family Dance-Rescheduled to Fri, April 1
Mon, Feb 28 - 9:00-10:15am - SMASH Tour
Wed, Mar 2 - Dr Seuss Pajama Day & Community Group Meeting
Fri, Mar 4 - Jog-a-thon. See Jog-a-thon schedule
Mon, Mar 7 - 9:00-10:15am - SMASH Tour
Fri, Mar 11 - Core 3/4 Dance
Wed, Mar 30 - Talent Show
*******************
WEDNESDAY BAKE SALE DATES
CORE 1: Mar 16, May 4
CORE 2: March 2, March 30, May 11
CORE 3: Apr 6, May 18
CORE 4: Mar 9, Apr 27, May 25
TEACHER APPRECIATION LUNCH CORE 2: Mar 18; CORE 3: Apr 1; CORE 4: May 13
*******************
FEBRUARY IS FITNESS TESTING MONTH
One mile run, push-ups, sit-ups, trunk lift, sit ‘n reach
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD IS WEARING APPROPRIATE
SHOES AND CLOTHING TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS TESTING
Running Dates: 7th Grade - Mon, Feb 28; 8th Grade; Wed, Mar 2; 5th grade March Wed, Thurs 2 & 3
*******************
THE THREE PENNY OPERA
February 24-25 & March 2, 3 & 4 @ 7:00 pm
Santa Monica High School's Humanities Center Theater
Adults: $15. Students: $10 Purchase tickets online @ http://www.samohitheatre.org
SMASH alum Olivia Mugalian is featured in this play
*******************
ROSIE’S GIRLS SPRING CHALLENGE
April 11-15, 8:30 AM-5 PM with Extended Care Available from 7-8:30 AM and5-6 PM for an Extra $35
Fee: Residents $325 non-residents $430 w/ additional $25 materials fee. Financial assistance available.
Visit www.rosiesgirls.smgov.net for more information. Register online at http://www.recenroll.smgov.net/.
*******************
*******************
Sign up with Dian Andrews 310-392-0600 for the SMASH TALENT SHOW
On March 30, 6:00 to 7:30pm
All students welcome - no auditions - 3 minute time limit
Arrive early if using backing tracks
DON'T WAIT!
*******************
On March 30, 6:00 to 7:30pm
All students welcome - no auditions - 3 minute time limit
Arrive early if using backing tracks
DON'T WAIT!
*******************
5th Annual Unity Resource Festival - FREE Admission & Parking
Sunday, March 6 - 1:00-5:30pm
Virginia Park at 2200 Virginia Ave
Live Music, Dance, Community Resources, Food, Crafts & Games
For information: 310-458-8688 or www.vaparksmgov.net
Big Blue Bus lines 7 & 11. Shuttle will be available from Santa Monica College
*******************
Sunday, March 6 - 1:00-5:30pm
Virginia Park at 2200 Virginia Ave
Live Music, Dance, Community Resources, Food, Crafts & Games
For information: 310-458-8688 or www.vaparksmgov.net
Big Blue Bus lines 7 & 11. Shuttle will be available from Santa Monica College
*******************
ptsa news
president’s message
Dear SMASHing Parents,
Next Friday is the SMASH Jog-a-thon. Even if you haven’t volunteered to help with the jog-a-thon, come out and cheer-on our kids as they run laps around the big yard. Start times are staggered between the Cores. If you don’t have time to watch the whole event, you can find out what time each Core is scheduled to run and show-up when it’s your child’s turn to participate and see them proudly wear their Jog-a-thon t-shirts.
As we have mentioned in the past few Friday letters, there are at least two positions that need to be filled on the SMASH PTSA executive board for the 2011-2011 school year. Generally, executive board positions do not require a large commitment of time. Rather, it is taking part and helping to make decisions about the work of the PTSA and how our resources should benefit our children’s education at SMASH.
The PTSA cannot function without an executive board. Often it is too easy to sit back and let others participate and make decisions that impact our children. If you have any interest in participating on the PTSA executive board for next year, please talk with a current board member and let them know that you are interested in at least finding out more
about what you can do to help. - Dan McGee
ptsa annual family investment drive
The SMASH Annual Family Investment Drive continues throughout the year. Have you made a commitment? We are striving for 100% participation. If you have any questions, contact Marni Ayers Brady (marniayers@gmail.com) or Helga Schier (helgaschier@verizon.net)
SMASH bash
If you have not been able to enjoy a SMASH bash event, there are still openings. Please contact Marni Ayers Brady (marniayers@gmail.com) at your earliest convenience and find out what remaining events are still available.
SMASH ptsa nominating committee
We need someone to handle PTSA Membership for the 2011-2012 school year. The V.P. of Membership is responsible for maintaining the PTSA membership list. The bulk of the position’s job duties are front-loaded at the beginning of the school year, and duties are minimal after November. Anyone interested in the position should contact
our outgoing V.P. of Membership, Catherine Lerer (clerer@mcgeelerer.com), and she can give you more info.
president’s message
Dear SMASHing Parents,
Next Friday is the SMASH Jog-a-thon. Even if you haven’t volunteered to help with the jog-a-thon, come out and cheer-on our kids as they run laps around the big yard. Start times are staggered between the Cores. If you don’t have time to watch the whole event, you can find out what time each Core is scheduled to run and show-up when it’s your child’s turn to participate and see them proudly wear their Jog-a-thon t-shirts.
As we have mentioned in the past few Friday letters, there are at least two positions that need to be filled on the SMASH PTSA executive board for the 2011-2011 school year. Generally, executive board positions do not require a large commitment of time. Rather, it is taking part and helping to make decisions about the work of the PTSA and how our resources should benefit our children’s education at SMASH.
The PTSA cannot function without an executive board. Often it is too easy to sit back and let others participate and make decisions that impact our children. If you have any interest in participating on the PTSA executive board for next year, please talk with a current board member and let them know that you are interested in at least finding out more
about what you can do to help. - Dan McGee
ptsa annual family investment drive
The SMASH Annual Family Investment Drive continues throughout the year. Have you made a commitment? We are striving for 100% participation. If you have any questions, contact Marni Ayers Brady (marniayers@gmail.com) or Helga Schier (helgaschier@verizon.net)
SMASH bash
If you have not been able to enjoy a SMASH bash event, there are still openings. Please contact Marni Ayers Brady (marniayers@gmail.com) at your earliest convenience and find out what remaining events are still available.
SMASH ptsa nominating committee
We need someone to handle PTSA Membership for the 2011-2012 school year. The V.P. of Membership is responsible for maintaining the PTSA membership list. The bulk of the position’s job duties are front-loaded at the beginning of the school year, and duties are minimal after November. Anyone interested in the position should contact
our outgoing V.P. of Membership, Catherine Lerer (clerer@mcgeelerer.com), and she can give you more info.
In addition, next year we are planning to create a new position on the SMASH PTSA Board to handle money for the Core 3 & 4 trips. The PTSA is planning to have a separate account for money collected from the 5th, 6th, 7th & 8th grade parents to pay for their kids’ learning adventures including AstroCamp, Catalina Island and Yosemite National Park, and Camp Hess-Kramer If you are interested, please Dan McGee (dmcgee@mcgeelerer.com).
SMASHing meetings
Our next PTSA meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 3 at 8:30 a.m. If you have never attended a PTSA meeting, please stop by. For those who are regularly involved, we look forward to seeing you at the meeting.
Green tip for the week
Nature's Air Filters: Houseplants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen; however, many plants also eliminate significant amounts of benzene, formaldehyde, and/or trichloroethylene. Some of these plants include varieties of Dracaena, palm, English ivy, rubber plant, and Peace Lily. The NASA Clean Air Study recommends one potted plant per every 100 square feet of indoor space. For a more complete list, visit http://www.colostate.edu/Depts/
CoopExt/4DMG/Plants/clean.htm.
*******************
CORE 1 NEWS
JOGATHON is in ONE WEEK – please make sure your pledge packets are turned in!!
Your child will need comfortable clothes, running shoes, and LOTS of breakfast (w/ protein!) on Friday morning before we run, run, run. GO SMASH!!
PAJAMA DAY – Student Council is celebrating Dr. Seuss’ Birthday by sponsoring our next spirit day on Wednesday, March 2nd. Come to school in your pajamas (but wear your school shoes!). Children may bring: One lovie (stuffed animal or blanket) as long as its fits on his/her lap and LOVE to listen to books. A favorite book from home.
1st Graders JULES STEIN EYE TESTS – THURSDAY MORNING
Please turn in your child’s permission slip to get his/her eyes checked.
UPCOMING FIELD TRIPS – BUILDING AT THE BEACH & PIER AQUARIUM
There are 2 field trip days coming up on March 8th and March 15th. Core 1 will be splitting up into 2 groups – visiting the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium on one day and building / exploring at the beach on the other.
Here’s how it will go:
PARTNERS – March 8th – Building at the Beach
March 15th – Pier Aquarium
BIGS (will be split into 2 groups) – PLEASE LOOK CAREFULLY AT YOUR TRIP SLIP FOR YOUR AQUARIUM TRIP DATE. The other date will be your child’s trip to the beach.
MENTORS – March 8th – Pier Aquarium
March 15th – Building at the Beach
Aquarium Trip – The children will leave school at 8:45. They will take the Big Blue Bus to the aquarium and walk back after the program. They will need to bring a snack, lunch, and PLENTY OF WATER to drink.
Building at the Beach – The children will walk to the beach around 9:00. We will be building in the sand, conducting water systems experiments, having time to play. The children will need a snack, lunch. And PLENTY OF WATER to drink. We will not be swimming/playing in the water, but expect to get a little messy!!
Chaperones are welcome. Sign-up is in the Magic Garden Room.
NO $ IS NEEDED FOR THESE TRIPS!!
WISHLIST – Our BOOBOOS need BAND-AIDS! Latex-free is preferred.
Have a great weekend!
Candis, Chrysta, Graciela, Jackie, and Karin
Candis: cberens@smmusd.org,
Chrysta: cwyse@smmusd.org
Graciela: gbarba-castro@smmusd.org
SMASH & John Muir Student Councils Presents:
Dr. Seuss “Read across America: Pajama Day!
Wednesday, March 2
Wear your pajamas & bring your favorite book to read.
Remember, you must be able to do all school activities (including PE)
*******************
CORE 2 NEWS
SMASH & John Muir Student Councils Presents:
Dr. Seuss “Read across America: Pajama Day!
Wednesday, March 2
Wear your pajamas & bring your favorite book to read.
Remember, you must be able to do all school activities (including PE)
*******************
CORE 2 NEWS
Advisory News: The week lived up to all the hype-- Monday off, publishing & sharing our Autobiography/Biography Unit, and an Assembly! We hope you had a chance to catch the assembly or visit us during the literacy sharing today. If not, don’t despair. You can swing by the classroom anytime to see their work, and you can read all about the assembly, terracycling/recycling/composting/zero-waste lunches, and other SMASHing news in the soon to be published 4G Newspaper. ***Family HW: We hope the teaching and learning students do for assemblies is meaningful for the whole family. This weekend, set up your terracycling collection receptacle, brainstorm ways to have a more earth-friendly lunch, and make a list of other ways your family can reduce your environmental footprint.
Theme: Laura Science: this week we researched Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic rocks. Ask your child to explain the differences and similarities of the three types of rocks. Tamara Social Studies: We researched migration: African-Americans to northern industrial cities, Westward Expansion and the Gold Rush, and Native American relocation to reservations, and Japanese-American relocation to internment camps during WWII. The students got to choose which group they wanted to study and worked together to find and share 2 facts. Ask your child what these groups have in common and how they are different.
Literacy: RW: The students finished their nonfiction biography mini-unit. It’s back to Just Right Books. Our next genre study will be Historical Fiction. ***RW HW: Core 2 students—read 30 – 45 minutes each night.
WW: The students published their charming Autobiographies. Next up, letter writing and personal essays.
***WW HW: Core 2 students—Describe yourself as a mathematician. What have you gotten better at since the beginning of the school year? What strategies do you like to use and why? What is your favorite thing about our math curriculum? How do you feel when you don’t understand something in math? How do you feel when you finally figure it out?
Math: Laura’s 3rd graders worked on measuring and ordering perimeters from smallest to largest. Ask your child about our first Quick Draw. ***3G HW due F 3/4.
Tamara’s 4th graders are wrapping up the division unit. ***4G HW due F 3/4.
Core 2 Homework and Homework Club Guidelines and FAQ's: Laura and Tamara are available to work with kids, answer questions/clarify confusion, and provide extra support during Monday Lunchtime Homework Club on a voluntary basis. C2 HW should be independent work. Our HW mantra is, “Start with what you know, do what you can, bring it in and ask for help.” We do not grade HW; we do not generally give direct feedback on HW; we do not have
punitive consequences for not doing HW. If HW causes any stress within your family, please take advantage of HW Club. HW Club is voluntary, but we may recommend it for students. It is here for you and your kids to provide even more flexibility with our C2 HW. C2 HW should never a source of family stress or take the place of meaningful family activities like playing a game, going for a bike ride, helping with dinner, doing chores. We never want a "Well…we were going to go skiing, but the kids had to finish their HW first." situation!
Dates to Remember:
Tues, Mar 1 - 4th grade state writing test—9:00am
Wednesday, March 2 – Dr. Seuss Birthday, PJ Day, please wear PJs that allow you to participate comfortably in all school activities, including PE. You may also bring your favorite book and an optional “lovie”
Friday, March 4 – JOG-A-Thon, come prepared to run – hat, running shoes and comfy clothes, sunscreen.
Monday, March 7 – Walking to Barnum Hall at Samohi for a 10:00 concert. We will return for lunch.
Monday, March 14 – Furlough Day NO school
Wednesday, March 23 – Core 2 Art Sharing, 9:15 -10:15
Wednesday, March 23, Thursday, March 24, and Friday, March 25 – 1:30 dismissal, Spring Family Conferences, more info next week
Think Green!
Laura: lsherman@smmusd.org;
Tamara: tmugalian@smmusd.org ;
Jayme: j.wold@smmusd.org
SMASH & John Muir Student Councils Presents:
Dr. Seuss “Read across America: Pajama Day!, Wednesday, March 2
Wear your pajamas & bring your favorite book to read.
Remember, you must be able to do all school activities (including PE)
*******************
CORE 3 NEWS
Needed: cleaning spray or cleaning wipes and tissues!
5th Grade Math w/ Genie: We will continue with fractions/percents/decimals when most of the 5th graders return from their AstroCamp trip. I'm sure they got a lot of math in on their trip!
6th Grade Math w/ Carrie: We have almost completed our fractions/decimals/percents unit. The test for this unit will be on Monday. Please encourage your child to study!
6th Grade Math w/ Erin This week students learned about symmetry and the differences between reflection symmetry (when the two halves of a shape are mirror images of one another) and rotation symmetry (when a shape looks the same at different points when it is rotated less than a full turn). Students then used their shapes set to decide if each shape had reflection or rotation symmetry.
Science: We only had one day to work on our projects this week but we got a lot done in a short amount of time. The Orange Group went to the Media Center and learned about how to use "smilenet", the district's online research tool. The Blue Group will go on Monday. All students may access smilenet from school or home by going to smilenet. smmusd.org. The username is SMMUSDE (all caps) and the password is LIBRARY (all caps). There are some fabulous research tools available for students. We particularly like SIRS where you can get articles from magazines, newspapers, and reference sources. If you have internet access at home, encourage your child to do some research using smilenet or to view some of the resources at discoveryeducation.com.
Social Studies and Geography: A SPECIAL PROJECT
This week we put math, social studies and geography all together for a special project while the 5th graders were at Astrocamp. Working in groups of 5, students walked around campus on a "scavenger hunt," asking teachers and staff members about where they were born or spent their childhoods. Then, using the blow-up grid method that we have been working on, each group created a map of the United States. Students chose how to signify where each person was
from: a dot with their name? A drawing of their face? A photo? They also chose whether to include landmarks and how to decorate each state. In addition, students used the graphing skills that they perfected last semester to create of graph of the same information.
Reading & Writing Workshop w/ Genie: We discussed our nonfiction Article "Jai Alai" and used many nonfiction reading strategies like using connections and general sports understanding to make sense of this game. We also used our geography understanding to give us more information and background on this sport. As writers, we were busy with our museum brochures and personal narratives. We will announce a publishing party date and time so you can join us—probably sometime the week of March 7th.
PE: 5th grade mile run, Wed, Mar 2 & Thurs, Mar 3
Homework:
6g Math - Assignment 30 due 2/28. Optional assignment 29.
5g Math - Packet #19 is DUE FRI 3/4
Science - Continue to research your Power of Nature topic!
Reading - Read every day for 30min—Log in pages/write at least 1 question or thought
Reading – Nonfiction Article "War"—read and marked up by Tues 3/1 for Blue and Thurs 3/3 for Orange
Writing –work on Museum Brochure (follow rubic) and Personal Narrative
Reflecting on a fine teaching experience.
Genie: ghwang@smmusd.org
Carrie: cferguson@smmusd.org
Erin: ehaendel@smmusd.org
LOOK FOR CORE 3/4 DANCE FLYER!
SMASH & John Muir Student Councils Presents:
Dr. Seuss “Read across America: Pajama Day!
Wednesday, March 2
Wear your pajamas & bring your favorite book to read.
Remember, you must be able to do all school activities (including PE)
*******************
CORE 4 NEWS
Reflecting on a fine teaching experience. For the first time SMASH fielded not one but two teams in a science competition called QuikScience. Sponsored by the Quicksilver company, the intent is to weave young student’s love of the ocean into rewarding service and science projects. We had both a 7th grade team and a highly motivated team of sixth graders. I wish you could have seen them as they forsook lunches, coordinated after school meetings, and worked hard, hard, hard. I have rarely witnessed such a highly motivated group of my students working diligently, effectively, and with measurable impact on our local community. This action-oriented group has elevated the discussion here at SMASH from mere academics to pragmatic attempts to influence restoration efforts at Malibu Lagoon and policy efforts in local government.
Our field trips, visits to other schools including SAMOHI, and the adventure of working during lunch for two months with motivated students was pure learning fun; a pure expression of SMASH at its best. The exposure to high school students, our USC mentor, Anand Patel, and the excitement of the contest setting also proved intellectually invigorating to my students and myself. Next year, I am considering entering the whole class. This was a fine learning experience for all of us. Let me know what you think as I begin my planning for next year’s science adventure.
Darwin is off with our beloved fifth graders at AstroCamp as Genie, Erin and I keep core four going forward. It was gratifying to see the energy and excitement on their face as they boarded the bus for the mountains. Cold temperatures will not slow this group down!
Of course this means that the consolidated due date for trip payments is fast approaching. I will send a trip sheet out detailing each trip’s costs and critical path next weak. We will be asking for payments for all trips on April First. Please plan ahead to insure your child gets to join us on these adventures.
Dates to remember:
PE Mile Run 7th Grade - 2pm, Mon, Feb 28; 8th Grade - 2pm, Wed, Mar 2
Tues, Mar 1 - 9am - 7th grade state writing test
Kurt: kholland@smmusd.org
Darwin: dmendinueto@smmusd.org
LOOK FOR CORE 3/4 DANCE FLYER!
SMASH & John Muir Student Councils Presents:
Dr. Seuss “Read across America: Pajama Day!
Wednesday, March 2
Wear your pajamas & bring your favorite book to read.
Remember, you must be able to do all school activities (including PE)
******************
MARCH LUNCH MENU
Tues, Mar 1: Salad bar, teriyaki beef dunkers w/steamed rice
Wed, Mar 2: Waffle w/sausage patty, tater tots, orange juice
Thurs, Mar 3: Salad bar w/chicken fajitas & flour tortilla
Fri, Mar 4: Cheese pizza wedge, celery sticks, sour apple fruit cup
Mon, Mar 7: Baked chicken nuggets w/baked potatoes, fresh fruit
Tues, Mar 8: Salad bar w/cheesy garlic flat bread
Wed, Mar 9: Salad bar w/smokey grilled rib-b-que sandwich on French roll
Thurs, Mar 10: Salad bar w/taco bar, churro
Fri, Mar 11: Galaxy cheese pizza, garden salad, fruit strip
MON, MAR 14 - SCHOOL CLOSED
Tues, Mar 15: Hot dog on whole wheat bun w/baked potato roundabouts, fresh fruit
Wed, Mar 16: Salad bar w/home style Mac & cheese
Thurs, Mar 17: Salad bar w/shamrock chicken nuggets, wheat roll, shamrock cookie
Fri, Mar 18: Cheese pizza slice, baby carrots, fresh fruit
Mon, Mar 21: Baked corn dog w/ baked potato smiles, frozen wild cherry fruit cup
Tues, Mar 22: Salad bar w/baked chick patty on whole wheat bun
Wed, Mar 23:Salad bar w/grilled cheese sandwich, frozen vanilla yogurt
Thurs, Mar 24: Salad bar w/bean & cheese burrito
Fri, Mar 25: Thin crust cheese pizza, 3-way salad, fresh fruit
Mon, Mar 28: Grilled hamburger on whole wheat bun w/baked seasoned potato wedges, fruit strip
Tues, Mar 29: Salad bar w/loco roasted chicken & flour tortilla, churro
Wed, Mar 30: Salad bar, orange chicken w/steamed rice, fortune cookie
Thurs, Mar 31: Salad bar w/taco bar
Second Choice Vegetarian Menu: Students may choose the featured hot lunch, or salad bar, or vegetarian option
3-1 to 3-4: Cheese quesadilla; 3-7 to 3-11: Yogurt & pretzels; 3-15 to 3-18: Cheese sticks
3-21 to 3-25: Toasted cheese sandwich; 3-28 to 3-31: Bean burrito
Breakfast Menu:
Mondays - Belgian waffle, fruit, milk
Tuesdays - Biscuit w/sausage, fruit, milk
Wednesdays - Cheese pizza bagel, fruit juice, milk
Thursdays - Grilled cheese sandwich, fruit, milk
Fridays - Cinnamon toast, fruit, milk
Offered every day: Assorted cold cereals w/animal crackers, assorted fruit, 1percent milk, nonfat & nonfat chocolate
Lunch Prices:
Full Price: breakfast $1.25, lunch $3.00, pre-paid Meal Deal (20 lunches) $50
Reduced: breakfast 30¢, lunch 40¢, pre-paid (20 lunches) $8.00
LOOK FOR CORE 3/4 DANCE FLYER!
SMASH & John Muir Student Councils Presents:
Dr. Seuss “Read across America: Pajama Day!
Wednesday, March 2
Wear your pajamas & bring your favorite book to read.
Remember, you must be able to do all school activities (including PE)
*******************
CORE 4 NEWS
Reflecting on a fine teaching experience. For the first time SMASH fielded not one but two teams in a science competition called QuikScience. Sponsored by the Quicksilver company, the intent is to weave young student’s love of the ocean into rewarding service and science projects. We had both a 7th grade team and a highly motivated team of sixth graders. I wish you could have seen them as they forsook lunches, coordinated after school meetings, and worked hard, hard, hard. I have rarely witnessed such a highly motivated group of my students working diligently, effectively, and with measurable impact on our local community. This action-oriented group has elevated the discussion here at SMASH from mere academics to pragmatic attempts to influence restoration efforts at Malibu Lagoon and policy efforts in local government.
Our field trips, visits to other schools including SAMOHI, and the adventure of working during lunch for two months with motivated students was pure learning fun; a pure expression of SMASH at its best. The exposure to high school students, our USC mentor, Anand Patel, and the excitement of the contest setting also proved intellectually invigorating to my students and myself. Next year, I am considering entering the whole class. This was a fine learning experience for all of us. Let me know what you think as I begin my planning for next year’s science adventure.
Darwin is off with our beloved fifth graders at AstroCamp as Genie, Erin and I keep core four going forward. It was gratifying to see the energy and excitement on their face as they boarded the bus for the mountains. Cold temperatures will not slow this group down!
Of course this means that the consolidated due date for trip payments is fast approaching. I will send a trip sheet out detailing each trip’s costs and critical path next weak. We will be asking for payments for all trips on April First. Please plan ahead to insure your child gets to join us on these adventures.
Dates to remember:
PE Mile Run 7th Grade - 2pm, Mon, Feb 28; 8th Grade - 2pm, Wed, Mar 2
Tues, Mar 1 - 9am - 7th grade state writing test
Kurt: kholland@smmusd.org
Darwin: dmendinueto@smmusd.org
LOOK FOR CORE 3/4 DANCE FLYER!
SMASH & John Muir Student Councils Presents:
Dr. Seuss “Read across America: Pajama Day!
Wednesday, March 2
Wear your pajamas & bring your favorite book to read.
Remember, you must be able to do all school activities (including PE)
******************
MARCH LUNCH MENU
Tues, Mar 1: Salad bar, teriyaki beef dunkers w/steamed rice
Wed, Mar 2: Waffle w/sausage patty, tater tots, orange juice
Thurs, Mar 3: Salad bar w/chicken fajitas & flour tortilla
Fri, Mar 4: Cheese pizza wedge, celery sticks, sour apple fruit cup
Mon, Mar 7: Baked chicken nuggets w/baked potatoes, fresh fruit
Tues, Mar 8: Salad bar w/cheesy garlic flat bread
Wed, Mar 9: Salad bar w/smokey grilled rib-b-que sandwich on French roll
Thurs, Mar 10: Salad bar w/taco bar, churro
Fri, Mar 11: Galaxy cheese pizza, garden salad, fruit strip
MON, MAR 14 - SCHOOL CLOSED
Tues, Mar 15: Hot dog on whole wheat bun w/baked potato roundabouts, fresh fruit
Wed, Mar 16: Salad bar w/home style Mac & cheese
Thurs, Mar 17: Salad bar w/shamrock chicken nuggets, wheat roll, shamrock cookie
Fri, Mar 18: Cheese pizza slice, baby carrots, fresh fruit
Mon, Mar 21: Baked corn dog w/ baked potato smiles, frozen wild cherry fruit cup
Tues, Mar 22: Salad bar w/baked chick patty on whole wheat bun
Wed, Mar 23:Salad bar w/grilled cheese sandwich, frozen vanilla yogurt
Thurs, Mar 24: Salad bar w/bean & cheese burrito
Fri, Mar 25: Thin crust cheese pizza, 3-way salad, fresh fruit
Mon, Mar 28: Grilled hamburger on whole wheat bun w/baked seasoned potato wedges, fruit strip
Tues, Mar 29: Salad bar w/loco roasted chicken & flour tortilla, churro
Wed, Mar 30: Salad bar, orange chicken w/steamed rice, fortune cookie
Thurs, Mar 31: Salad bar w/taco bar
Second Choice Vegetarian Menu: Students may choose the featured hot lunch, or salad bar, or vegetarian option
3-1 to 3-4: Cheese quesadilla; 3-7 to 3-11: Yogurt & pretzels; 3-15 to 3-18: Cheese sticks
3-21 to 3-25: Toasted cheese sandwich; 3-28 to 3-31: Bean burrito
Breakfast Menu:
Mondays - Belgian waffle, fruit, milk
Tuesdays - Biscuit w/sausage, fruit, milk
Wednesdays - Cheese pizza bagel, fruit juice, milk
Thursdays - Grilled cheese sandwich, fruit, milk
Fridays - Cinnamon toast, fruit, milk
Offered every day: Assorted cold cereals w/animal crackers, assorted fruit, 1percent milk, nonfat & nonfat chocolate
Lunch Prices:
Full Price: breakfast $1.25, lunch $3.00, pre-paid Meal Deal (20 lunches) $50
Reduced: breakfast 30¢, lunch 40¢, pre-paid (20 lunches) $8.00
