2008_12

December 2008

Welcome to the December 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.

Events and Announcements:

• Birthdays -
  Noah on December 6th
  yay!
  
• Things to bring:
  Students should bring a hand towel and indoor shoes as the weather is getting colder now. Div 2 students should have a notebook or calender 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) have their own class homepage this year named <div2>. http://aischool.ed.jp/ai/div2/
• Homework program:
  Parents please assist students in learning to manage and complete homework on their own.
  All students have the homework information sheet and the homework update sheet. Students should remember to ask about work when they have been absent from classes.
  Homework and study habits are an important part of preparing to run the long marathon of learning and education. Div 2 students should have a calendar or planner to record homework and assignments everyday.
• Repeated Reading Program:
  Reading is a very important part of the daily habit of homework. This is very important for vocabulary, sight reading and reading fluency. Parents may assist students by asking one or two comprehension questions about each story. Please remember to use home reading books and practice reading every night.
• AIS core sports: skateclub.
  The mini-ramp will be open each Thursday of the first and third 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 highly 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, December 2nd - abacus class
• 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 consists of several group and individual pieces.
• Thursday, December 11th - Elementary Christmas Party
  The elementary parents will host a christmas party for the elementary with games and a snack. Please see Mrs. Campbell or Mrs. Masuda for details.
• Saturday, December 13th - AIS Christmas Event
  AIS kindergarten will present the Christmas story, songs, and a dance piece. Doors will open at 9:15am and the event begins at 10:00am. AIS elementary music program has been invited to perform some musical selections as part of the kindergarten Christmas event. Please see Ms. Claire for details.
• Friday, December 12th - end of term 1
  Progress reports will go home, please return by Friday, January 9th.
• December 13th to January 5th - no classes, winter break


Looking Ahead:
• January 6th - first day of classes, term 2 begins
• Monday, December 15th-Monday, January 5th - winter break
  School will begin again on Tuesday, January 6th.
• Mini Term 2009 will be held in January
  Stay tuned for details on learning and trying new activites in preparation for the Celebration Showcase on Wednesday, February 25th.