Taking some time to read books before Morning Meeting begins

December is already upon us and we are on our 74th day of school! 

Friends are deep in the throes of their Partner Book editing and illustrating. This is an evolutionary process for 1st and 2nd graders as they learn to put their own "favorites" aside to write a story using the likes and interests of their partners. This is also a time for us to discuss logical sequencing, writing transitions and descriptive details when writing a story. 

We are preparing for a lot of giving this month. 

Adding details is an important part of the Writing Process

                                                                       Friends will give of their time in creating a gift of words and art. They work in great anticipation of their partner's reaction as they read "their" book for the very first time. Have you thought about a place where you will keep this very special book?

We are giving thanks for a new friend, Kieran! Kieran joined our classroom on Monday. With 15 Prairie Racerunners we have  plethora of talents and passions to learn from.



We are also giving of our resources. 
Willowwind School is collecting Pantry Items for the River Community Church. We are also collecting Pages for Patients! Meg Richardson, a Willowwind Alum, is heading up this event as she encourages the community to collect NEW books for children who are in the hospital and gently used books (for readers of ALL ages) for the UIHC library. Please send in the donations by Friday, December 16th. 


Have you checked our website for an updated Newsletter and Calendar items?

Now that it is snowing (for awhile I thought Iowa City had forgotten its favorite ground cover) friends are welcome to bring in snow pants and snow boots. They may also bring sturdy slippers or easy slip on shoes to change into for dry feet in between recess. How cool is it that Iowa Kids get to play in the snow for 3 recess' a day??? It is a whole new time of imagination.