Dear Parents & Guardians,

For the first time in a long time, an event took place without fretting too much about the weather. On December 12, between 9:00 and 11:50, 11 folks from the community showed up with crafts to share with students. Gloria Colby and Patty O'Neil had student pictures and stars. Lisa Forbes, the Gifts for Giving Organizer, had an ornament station. Victoria Pollard and Emily Sloan helped students make cards while Linda Fisher had bookmarks and notepads handy. Rose Leach sat at the fuzzy feet station for students. And Sarah Mele oversaw the star card station. Beth Delano had gift wrapping available for students. Last, but not least, Judy Knapp and Mary Ann Powers sat by a wide array of sachet bags for students to fill. On behalf of the staff, I wanted to thank one and all for a wonderful gift to the children--the gift of giving. Would that more people in this world could as charitable!

As mentioned earlier, through a matching Vermont Arts Council grant, we have begun our artist's residencies. Lynn Newcomb is working with third- and fourth-graders on print-making. She is also working with the fifth- and sixth-graders on still-life or realistic drawing. For those who wondered why we picked short artist residencies, we did that in order to expose students to different types of art during the art class. And, once more, we are thankful of people from the community coming in to help with the special projects.

And while we are on thankful notes, Bev Wells asked that I share the following with you: "Thank you so much for your part in making our winter concert such a joyous experience.  I hope you were joining me in being proud of their appearance as well as their singing.  "

For those who wish to look into the week after next, school will be held for a full day on December 22 and for a half-day (until 12:30) on December 23rd.  School will be out for the Winter recess until, Monday, January 5, 2009.

In the meantime, keep us posted if you have any questions or concerns. We truly appreciate the support that you give to the children and their programs.

Sincerely,