2008_10

October 2008

Welcome to the October edition of the 2008-2009 AIS Elementary newsletter!
We are having an exciting and challenging year!

Our Elementary theme for the year is:
Hold on to what is good.

The verse for our theme is from 1 Thessalonians chapter 5 verse 21.

This months events and announcements:

• Birthdays -
  Allison on October 2!
  Anna on October 2 (+1 minute)!
  Ken on October 4!
  Knight on October 22!
  yay!
• Things to bring:
  Students may want to bring a hand towel, indoor shoes, and a pencil case. Div 2 students may want to bring a notebook or planner to record daily homework and assignments.
• Schedule and Internet:
  As part of our long-term plan to equip the students with computer and technology skills, the elementary newsletter will continue to be posted online. The 2008-2009 class schedule will be online this year as well, feel free to print a custom copy and if there are any changes we will let you know in the newsletter. http://aischool.ed.jp/ai/schedule/
  The division two students (grade 4 and 5) will also have their own class homepage this year named <div2>. http://aischool.ed.jp/ai/div2/
• Homework program:
  Thank you to all parents who were able to attend the parent information night.
  All students have the homework information sheet and should begin following the homework program this month. The daily homework is to read from the reading program books (approx 10 minutes/grade level) and study spelling. Students may also work on assigned homework from specific classes.
  Homework and study habits are an important part of preparing to run the long marathon of learning and education, please begin the race well. Div 2 students may want to bring a calendar or planner to record daily homework and assignments.
• Repeated Reading Program:
  Please remember to use home reading books and practice reading every night if possible. This is very important for vocabulary, sight reading and reading fluency. When you need a new reading log sheet, please ask Ms. Myrna. Remember to complete your daily homework: read and practice spelling.
• AIS core sports: skateclub.
  The mini-ramp will be open each Thursday of the first and second term, weather permitting, and following skateclub there may be an open drop-in skate for parents or staff as well. Eligible riders must have their permission form in before they can participate. Having your own board / gear is recommended but not necessary, please consult with mr.dave before investing in a board. Please visit the homepage or see mr.dave for more information. http://aischool.ed.jp/core/


Dates:

• Tuesday, October 7th and 21st - abacus classes
• Monday, October 13th - no school
• Saturday, October 18th - Sports Day It will be at Kohnan Elementary School (near JR sumiyoshi) from 9:45 am to 3:00 pm. Elementary events will be held from 1-3 pm. There will be time for a picnic lunch from 12-12:40, please feel free to bring lunch and eat it there. Wear your AIS t-shirt and sweatshirt, please bring your tea bottles and athletic footwear also.
• Thursday/Friday, October 30-31 - parent conferences
  Classes will be in the morning only (there will be half day of school) to allow time for parent conferences from 12:30-4pm. There will be no lunch and classes will end at 11:30 am so please plan accordingly. Parents: if you wish to change your conference times, you must make all arrangements with the other family before informing teachers of the changes.

Looking Ahead:
• Wednesday, November 12th - Language Showcase
  We will begin to plan and prepare for our language showcase this month. It will be held after school on Wednesday, November 12th from 4pm to 5pm. Please come and support the students as they entertain you.
• Saturday, November 22nd - Culture Festival Day/music performance
  AIS elementary music program has been invited to perform as part of an international school event at Kitano Koubou Hall. AIS students will be on stage for one performance between 9:30am and 12 noon.
• December 1st-13th - art exhibit
  The Association of Foreign Schools in Hyogo Prefecture will host our division 2 student's art in an exhibit at the Kinrou Kaikan from December 1st-13th. The display will be 190cm wide x 140cm and will consist of group and individual pieces and needs to be ready by Friday, November 21st.