RiedlTeach.blogspot.com: Newsletters

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Newsletter: Week 26 of 37

Rice NW Museum of Rocks & Minerals

March 19 - 23, 2018

We had a great field trip to the Rice NW Museum of Rocks and Minerals! Thanks so much to all of the chaperones who helped make it a successful visit! Regarding grades, I updated Renweb early Friday morning last week. A few students turned in a few assignments later that day, but other than that, the grades that show in Renweb right now will be the grades that will appear on report cards unless missing work or corrections are turned in this week (see "Topics to Talk About" below). Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Nobody this week!

Topics to Talk About at Home

Are you happy with your grades on Renweb? If not, then the last day students are able to turn in missing work or Correction Forms from this trimester is on Thursday, March 22nd, which is the last day before Spring Break.

Upcoming Events

Mar 20 - Seussical After School Rehearsal (3:05-5:00)
Mar 22 - Riedl Bank Auction #6
Mar 22 - Puberty Talk (details below)
Mar 22 - Last day to turn in missing work or Correction Forms for 2nd Trimester
Mar 22 - Last day of 2nd Trimester
Mar 23 to Apr 01 - No School (Spring Break)
Apr 02 - First day of 3rd Trimester
Apr 02 - Riedl Bank Payday
Apr 03 - Riedl Bank Rent Due
Apr 06 - Spirit Wear Day! Show WHCS School Spirit!
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Unit 11: Deborah Helps Others | Memory verse: Psalm 121:1-2 |
Math - Chapter 6: Add and Subtract Fractions with Unlike Denominators
Science - Unit E: Solid Earth Unit | Test on the Tuesday after Spring Break
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Egypt
Read Aloud - The Cay by Theodore Taylor
Reading - Treasures Unit 4: Ultimate Field Trip 5
Writing - Persuasive Business Letter (students received info packet)
Spelling - No new unit this week
Grammar - Adjectives Unit
Other - N/A
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Science Lab Assignment: Rock Collection Project

Our science lab instructor, Mrs. Swain, assigned the students a Rock Collection Project, which is due on the morning of Wednesday, March 21st. Each student should collect at least 8 different rocks or minerals in order to identify them. The students must NOT know the type of rock or mineral collected (it would defeat the purpose of attempting to identify it in Science Lab). Please use an ordinary egg carton to collect them, numbering the carton spots #1-8 for the rocks or minerals to be placed in. If anyone has extra egg cartons at their house, please bring them in for students who do not have one to use for collecting. This has already been explained to the students in class. Thank you, and please direct any questions to Mr. Riedl or Mrs. Swain!

Puberty Talk

Each year, the 5th and 6th grade classes schedule a talk with the students (boys and girls separately) regarding adolescence and general changes to expect. This year's Puberty Talk will be held on Thursday, March 22nd. You should have already received a permission/email notification from our school nurses. Please read their message and if you do not want your child to attend, you may reply to them indicating that you wish for your child to be excused from this talk. If you do not respond to their email, they will assume that your child has permission to attend. Please feel free to contact me or the school nurses if you have any questions.

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 25 of 37

Partner Reading

March 12 - 16, 2018

We are in need of a chaperone to drive a group of students and join us for the field trip to the Rice NW Museum of Rocks and Minerals. More details here, and please email or text me if you are able to come. Thank you! Additionally, I have set up an Amazon List with books that many students have asked to read, but I don't have them in my classroom library. If you are interested in donating books to our classroom library, view the list here: Mr. Riedl's Classroom Library Wish List. Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Nobody this week!

Topics to Talk About at Home

Spring Break is coming up soon, which means it's just about the end of the 2nd Trimester. The last day students are able to turn in missing work or Correction Forms from this trimester is on Thursday, March 22nd, which is the last day before Spring Break. If you haven't already, please look at grades on Renweb and discuss what steps ought to be taken before report cards are finalized.

Upcoming Events

Mar 13 - Field Trip: Rice NW Museum of Rocks and Minerals (9:00-1:30)
Mar 22 - Riedl Bank Auction #6
Mar 22 - Puberty Talk (details below)
Mar 22 - Last day to turn in missing work or Correction Forms for 2nd Trimester
Mar 22 - Last day of 2nd Trimester
Mar 23 to Apr 01 - No School (Spring Break)
Apr 02 - First day of 3rd Trimester
Apr 02 - Riedl Bank Payday
Apr 03 - Riedl Bank Rent Due
Apr 06 - Spirit Wear Day! Show WHCS School Spirit!
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Unit 10: God Uses Judges | Memory verse: Ephesians 2:8-9 | Quiz Friday
Math - Chapter 6: Add and Subtract Fractions with Unlike Denominators
Science - Unit E: Solid Earth Unit
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Egypt
Read Aloud - The Cay by Theodore Taylor
Reading - Treasures Unit 4: Ultimate Field Trip 5
Writing - Persuasive Business Letter (students received info packet)
Spelling - Unit 17
Grammar - Verbs Unit | Test Friday
Other - Music [Mrs. Brumley] - Music Sharing Day sign-up sheet due 3/13
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Field Trip: Rice NW Museum of Rocks and Minerals

On Tuesday, March 13th, we will see amazing geological wonders at the Rice NW Museum of Rocks and Minerals! Parent drivers will be carpooling from 9:00-1:30pm, so please let me know if your child won't be able to make the trip (I will organize carpool groups and contact chaperones soon). Once we arrive, we will be indoors for most of the time. Your child should bring a sack lunch to be eaten there (lunch boxes are okay). If you would like to bring a little spending money to purchase something from the gift shop, that is optional. Last year, each student was allowed to choose one rock from a pile outdoors to take home as a souvenir. Also, don’t forget to wear your red WHCS shirt! Please let me know if you have any questions!

Science Lab Assignment: Rock Collection Project

Puberty Talk

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 24 of 37

Reading Buddy Math Facts Tourney!

March 5 - 9, 2018

Thanks to everyone able to help out with a successful Hoop-a-thon last week! We had a lot of fun dressing up, showing school spirit, and raising money for our school. Thanks also to those who were able to join us for chapel last week, and if you didn't get a chance to watch the video, click here. Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Carter Bernstein!

Topics to Talk About at Home

Our writing assignment for March is a persuasive business letter, and on Friday we discussed what makes a good topic to try to convince someone of something. Please talk at home about what topic they chose, and if not, they'll need to do so by Tuesday. We'll be writing a list of pros and cons for their persuasive topic that day, eventually forming their arguments into a persuasive business letter.

Upcoming Events

Mar 13 - Field Trip: Rice NW Museum of Rocks and Minerals (9:00-1:30)
Mar 22 - Riedl Bank Auction #6
Mar 22 - Last day to turn in missing work or Correction Forms for 2nd Trimester
Mar 22 - Last day of 2nd Trimester
Mar 23 to Apr 01 - No School (Spring Break)
Apr 02 - First day of 3rd Trimester
Apr 02 - Riedl Bank Payday
Apr 03 - Riedl Bank Rent Due
Apr 06 - Spirit Wear Day! Show WHCS School Spirit!
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Unit 10: God Uses Judges | Memory verse: Ephesians 2:8-9
Math - Chapter 5: Dividing Decimals
Science - Unit E: Solid Earth Unit
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Countries of the Far East
Read Aloud - The Invisible Girls (abridged) by Sarah Thebarge (my friend!)
Reading - Treasures Unit 4: Ultimate Field Trip 5
Writing - March Writing Assignment (students will receive info packet)
Spelling - Unit 16
Grammar - Verbs Unit
Other - Music [Mrs. Brumley] - Music Sharing Day sign-up sheet due 3/13
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Field Trip: Rice NW Museum of Rocks and Minerals

Science Lab Assignment: Rock Collection Project

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 23 of 37

Newsletter: Week 22 of 37

My girls enjoying the East PDX snow!

February 22 - 23, 2018

Well, it looks like we'll have an even shorter week than expected, due to the Wednesday snow day! We will try to use class time to finish filming our chapel skits, and we are looking forward to leading chapel next Wednesday. Hopefully many parents are able to come watch in person, but it will also be made available on YouTube for those who are unable to come. Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Frosty the Snowman!

Topics to Talk About at Home

Please talk about what the students are learning from their chapel skits. What is their group's memory verse? What does it have to do with their skit? What is the storyline for the skit? How do you think God might speak to the 3rd and 4th graders through the skits?

Upcoming Events

Now until Mar 02 - Hoop-a-Thon! (details below)
Feb 21 - No School (Snow Day!)
Feb 23 - Riedl Bank Auction #5
Feb 26 - SPIRIT WEEK: Comfy Pajama Day!
Feb 27 - SPIRIT WEEK: Tourist Day!
Feb 27 - Seussical After School (3:05-5:00)
Feb 28 - SPIRIT WEEK: Disney Day!
Feb 28 - Riedl Bank Payday
Feb 28 - Mr. Riedl's Class Leads Chapel! (9:00 in Auditorium)
Mar 01 - SPIRIT WEEK: Sport Jersey Day!
Mar 01 - Riedl Bank Rent Due
Mar 02 - ~~Spirit Wear Day!~~ ~~Show WHCS School Spirit~~!
Mar 02 - SPIRIT WEEK: Hoop Day! Our class theme is TBD
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Chapel Leading Preparations | Memory verse: >> Prov.24:17, Luke 6:31, 2 Tim.1:7, Col.3:23-24, Matt.7:12 (each group has different verse)
Math - Chapter 5
Science - Solid Earth Unit
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Countries of the Far East
Read Aloud - The Invisible Girls (abridged) by Sarah Thebarge (my friend!)
Reading - Treasures Unit 2
Writing - Basic Paragraph Structure
Spelling - Unit 14
Grammar - Verbs Unit
Other - N/A
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Hoop-a-Thon!

Hoop-A-Thon is here! Please visit WHCSHOOP.com to set up your student's pledge site. One pledge, each student receives a participation prize. $125 in pledges, student receives a Hoop shirt. Every $50, student's name is put in a drawing for special prizes. Our goal is $60,000! Let's do this...One Team, One Heart on March 2nd, Hoop Day!

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 21 of 37

Learning about China with the Mills family

February 12 - 16, 2018

I only heard from one parent willing to help donate some money for more packs of Pez candy rewards in class and Swiffer duster head refills, so if you are able to help too, please let me know. Thank you so much! Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Jack Musacchia!

Topics to Talk About at Home

Progress Reports will be sent out this Wednesday, but you can see grades now if you want, since they are already on Renweb online. Please talk together about the progress so far in the trimester, and how to improve, if necessary.

Upcoming Events

Feb 13 - Field Trip: Neighborhood House (Group 2) (9:15-10:45)
Feb 14 - Progress Reports emailed
Feb 14 - Class Party: Valentine's Day! (2:00-3:00)
Feb 19 - No School (Presidents' Day)
Feb 20 - No School (Professional Development Day)
Feb 23 - Riedl Bank Auction #5
Feb 27 - Seussical After School (3:05-5:00)
Feb 28 - Riedl Bank Payday
Feb 28 - Mr. Riedl's Class Leads Chapel! (9:00 in Auditorium)
Mar 01 - Riedl Bank Rent Due
Mar 02 - ~~Spirit Wear Day!~~ ~~Show WHCS School Spirit~~!
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Chapel Leading Preparations | Memory verse: >> Prov.24:17, Luke 6:31, 2 Tim.1:7, Col.3:23-24, Matt.7:12 (each group has different verse)
Math - Chapter 4 | Test Monday
Science - Movement & Control Unit | Test Thursday
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Countries of the Far East
Read Aloud - The Invisible Girls (abridged) by Sarah Thebarge (my friend!)
Reading - Treasures Unit 2
Writing - Basic Paragraph Structure
Spelling - Unit 14
Grammar - Verbs Unit
Other - Music Baroque Quiz Thursday
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Valentines

In 5th grade, many students exchange valentines, but some do not. It is optional. The rule we have made is that if you bring them, you need to bring enough for everyone in the class. We will exchange valentines at the end of the day on February 14th. As for bringing valentines for students in Mrs. Hawkins' class, we will give them a few minutes to switch rooms at the end of the day on the 14th, and they do not need to bring valentines for Mrs. Hawkins' entire class, just for one or a few friends if they want to. Here is a classroom list if you want to print it: Roster Sheets 5th Grade 2017-2018.

Neighborhood House: Winter Trips

The other half of the class will be going to Neighborhood House again on Tuesday, February 13th. I would like us to bring donations with us for the rest of the trips this year, so each student please bring one or two items to donate (if possible). These are the students I have selected to go in Group 2: Amalie, Bella, Jace, Jeryn, Jack L., Scottie, Kavika, Nash, Rowan, Carter, and Julia. Please remember that the students should wear good shoes to walk in, clothes they don't mind getting dirty, and bring a rain jacket in case it rains on our 15 minute walk to Multnomah Village. Let me know if you have any questions, and click here for more info about donations.

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 20 of 37

Dumping expired egg nog at Neighborhood House!

February 5 - 9, 2018

We had a great Pez Party on Friday! Unfortunately, with the two field trips and the party last week, I didn't have time to update Renweb. I'll be sure to update it this week. I have a request for those who are able to contribute: Is anyone willing to donate some money for more packs of Pez candy rewards in class? Also, we are low on Swiffer duster head refills, and it would be great if someone could please pick up an extra box or two for the class. Thank you so much! Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Jake Mills!

Topics to Talk About at Home

Like I mentioned above, the Pez Party (which is scheduled for this Friday) is the whole-class reward that the students earned for good behavior. I would like you to talk at home about whether or not you think it is okay for you to bring your personal electronics to class for the party. Last week, on Friday afternoon at our Class Meeting, we discussed ideas for what we can do at the party, and a popular idea was to have an "electronics game time." However, those that bring in electronics would need to be willing to share and also take that risk of letting others use it. Please discuss the pros/cons of bringing in your personal electronics and whether or not it is worth it. We will hold the vote for what we will do at the party on Monday. There will be many other ideas to vote for, such as watching a movie, extra recess, or having a read-in.

Upcoming Events

Feb 13 - Field Trip: Neighborhood House (Group 2) (9:15-10:45)
Feb 14 - Progress Reports emailed
Feb 14 - Class Party: Valentine's Day! (2:00-3:00)
Feb 19 - No School (Presidents' Day)
Feb 20 - No School (Professional Development Day)
Feb 23 - Riedl Bank Auction #5
Feb 28 - Riedl Bank Payday
Feb 28 - Mr. Riedl's Class Leads Chapel! (9:00 in Auditorium)
Mar 01 - Riedl Bank Rent Due
Mar 02 - Spirit Wear Day! Show WHCS School Spirit!
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Chapel Leading Preparations | Memory verse: >> Prov.24:17, Luke 6:31, 2 Tim.1:7, Col.3:23-24, Matt.7:12 (each group has different verse)
Math - Chapter 4 | Test 2/12
Science - Movement & Control Unit | Test 2/15
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Countries of the Far East
Read Aloud - The Invisible Girls (abridged) by Sarah Thebarge (my friend!)
Reading - Treasures Unit 2
Writing - January Writing Assignment (info packet was given to students) | Final Draft due Wednesday
Spelling - Unit 13
Grammar - Verbs Unit | Quiz Friday: Irregular Verbs "see" to "write"
Other - N/A
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Valentines

Neighborhood House: Winter Trips

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 19 of 37

Opening Routine (courtesy class photographer)

January 29 - February 2, 2018

There is a lot happening this week! Two field trips and a Pez Party on top of all of our regular weekly work! The students finally earned their whole-class reward for good behavior (the Pez Party), and we will vote on what we will be doing during the party. Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Josiah Koss!

Topics to Talk About at Home

Upcoming Events

Jan 30 - Field Trip: Neighborhood House (Group 1) (9:15-10:45)
Jan 30 - Seussical After School (3:00-5:00)
Jan 31 - Riedl Bank Payday!
Feb 01 - Riedl Bank Rent Due
Feb 01 - Field Trip: Oregon Symphony (10:00-12:30)
Feb 02 - Spirit Wear Day! Show WHCS School Spirit!
Feb 02 - Pez Party Day! (more details TBD)
Feb 13 - Field Trip: Neighborhood House (Group 2) (9:15-10:45)
Feb 14 - Progress Reports emailed
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Chapel Leading Preparations | Memory verse: >> Prov.24:17, Luke 6:31, 2 Tim.1:7, Col.3:23-24, Matt.7:12 (each group has different verse)
Math - Chapter 4
Science - Movement & Control Unit
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Central and Southern Asia
Read Aloud - The Invisible Girls (abridged) by Sarah Thebarge (my friend!)
Reading - Treasures Unit 1
Writing - January Writing Assignment (info packet was given to students) | Final Draft due 2/7
Spelling - Unit 12
Grammar - Verbs Unit | Quiz Friday: Irregular Verbs "fly" to "run"
Other - N/A
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Neighborhood House: Winter Trips

Half of the class will be going to Neighborhood House again on Tuesday, January 30th. I would like us to bring donations with us for the rest of the trips this year, so each student please bring one or two items to donate (if possible). These are the students I have selected to go in Group 1: Charlie, Luke, Julia, Amy, Grace, Jacob, Briana, Josiah, Nick, Jack M., and Jonah. The second group will be going on Tuesday, February 13th. Please remember that the students should wear good shoes to walk in, clothes they don't mind getting dirty, and bring a rain jacket in case it rains on our 15 minute walk to Multnomah Village. Let me know if you have any questions, and click here for more info about donations.

Field Trip: Oregon Symphony

We have a great trip to the Schnitz planned for Thursday, February 1st to hear some wonderful music! In previous years, I remember it being very full of students from other schools as well as our own. We will be taking the bus downtown from 10:00-12:30pm, so please let me know if you won't be able to make it. Please wear walkable/comfortable shoes as well as your red WHCS shirt! We plan to eat lunch when we return to school. Let me know if you have any questions.

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 18 of 37

Great job in the Geography Bee, Jacob!

January 22 - 26, 2018

I just got off the phone with Stephanie Stillwell, my substitute for last week, and we had a good conversation to transition me back into the classroom. For those of you who haven't heard, I was out since the 9th recovering from pneumonia. I'm feeling much better, and I am ready to see everyone again! Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Bella Gubrud!

Topics to Talk About at Home

The students have been working on their winter-themed essays. Have you talked about them at home? Do you know what their topic is and how it relates to winter? We'll be working on 2nd drafts this week.

Upcoming Events

Jan 22 - Parent Society Meeting (7:00; see image right)
Jan 26 - Riedl Bank Auction #4
Jan 30 - Field Trip: Neighborhood House (Group 1) (9:15-10:45)
Jan 30 - Seussical After School (3:00-5:00)
Jan 31 - Riedl Bank Payday!
Feb 01 - Riedl Bank Rent Due
Feb 01 - Field Trip: Oregon Symphony (10:00-12:30)
Feb 02 - Spirit Wear Day! Show WHCS School Spirit!
Feb 13 - Field Trip: Neighborhood House (Group 2) (9:15-10:45)
Feb 14 - Progress Reports emailed
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Chapel Leading Preparations | Memory verse: TBD |
Math - Chapter 3 | Test Monday
Science - Movement & Control Unit
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Central and Southern Asia
Read Aloud - The Invisible Girls (abridged) by Sarah Thebarge (my friend!)
Reading - Book Clubs: Hatchet, The Giver, or Matilda | Book Club Packets FINALLY due Tue/Wed
Writing - January Writing Assignment (info packet was given to students)
Spelling - Unit 11
Grammar - Verbs Unit | Quiz Friday: Irregular Verbs "be" to "fall"
Other - Music [Mrs. Brumley] -
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Neighborhood House: Winter Trips

Field Trip: Oregon Symphony

We have a great trip to the Schnitz planned for Thursday, February 1st to hear some wonderful music! In previous years, I remember it being very full of students from other schools as well as our own. We will be taking the bus downtown from 10:00-12:30pm, so please let me know if you won't be able to make it. Please wear walkable/comfortable shoes. We plan to eat lunch when we return to school. Let me know if you have any questions.

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 16 of 37

Math work time

January 8 - 12, 2018

The class seemed to be excited about our January writing assignment when it was introduced last week: Winter-themed informative essays! An info packet was given to the students, with details about how they can choose a topic to write about that has something to do with winter. Hopefully we'll have some great topics to learn about! Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Amalie Bates!

Topics to Talk About at Home

We just finished our Read Aloud book on Friday, which is called The Door In The Dragon's Throat by Frank Peretti. It would be great if you discuss it at home, and ask them about the part regarding demons and the dangers that were revealed about spiritual warfare. It was a great book with an intense ending of a near catastrophe involving the book of Revelation. We were pretty light-hearted about it, but feel free to check in at home about spiritual warfare, demons, and other intense Biblical topics.

Upcoming Events

Jan 12 - National Geographic Bee (4th-8th Grade) (2pm in Auditorium)
Jan 15 - No School (Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day)
Jan 30 - Field Trip: Neighborhood House (Group 1) (9:15-10:45)
Feb 01 - Field Trip: Oregon Symphony (10:00-12:30)
Feb 02 - Spirit Wear Day! Show WHCS School Spirit!
Feb 13 - Field Trip: Neighborhood House (Group 2) (9:15-10:45)
Feb 14 - Progress Reports emailed
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Lesson 8: Joshua and Caleb Are Faithful | Memory verse: Joshua 1:7 | Quiz 1/19
Math - Chapter 3 | Test 1/19
Science - Light & Sound Unit | Quiz 1/16
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Modern Middle East
Read Aloud - The Invisible Girls (abridged) by Sarah Thebarge (my friend!)
Reading - Book Clubs: Hatchet, The Giver, or Matilda | Book Club Packets due this Tue/Wed
Writing - January Writing Assignment (info packet was given to students)
Spelling - Unit 10
Grammar - Verbs Unit
Other - N/A
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Science Lab: Water Bottle

This week on Wednesday, January 10th, the students will need to bring an empty bottle to school for Science Lab. They should be water or soda bottles with a small opening. Be sure the bottles are clean. Thank you!

Neighborhood House: Winter Trips

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 15 of 37

Book Club! (image courtesy class photographer)

January 2 - 5, 2017

Happy New Year! I hope everyone has enjoyed the time off, as well as the beautiful snow on Christmas and gorgeous sunshine outside now. As we come back to class, be prepared to pick up where we left off with our learning! Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Short Week = No POW!

Topics to Talk About at Home

Please help your child understand that some students in class may have had fun over Christmas Break, while other students may have had tough situations at home that were not fun. Remind them that many families struggle with finances, family relationships, and other conflicts. I will encourage all of the students to have a humble heart in regards to talking about any gifts they received and compassion toward those who had a hard time over the break.

Upcoming Events

Jan 02 - Start of 2nd Trimester
Jan 02 - Riedl Bank Payday
Jan 03 - Riedl Bank Rent Due
Jan 05 - Spirit Wear Day! Show WHCS School Spirit!
Jan 05 - Report Cards Emailed
Jan 12 - National Geographic Bee (4th-8th Grade) (2pm in Auditorium)
Jan 15 - No School (Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day)
Jan 30 - Field Trip: Neighborhood House (Group 1) (9:15-10:45)
Feb 01 - Field Trip: Oregon Symphony (10:00-12:30)
Feb 13 - Field Trip: Neighborhood House (Group 2) (9:15-10:45)
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Lesson 8: Joshua and Caleb Are Faithful | Memory verse: Joshua 1:7 |
Math - Chapter 3
Science - Light & Sound Unit | Quiz 1/16
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Modern Middle East
Read Aloud - The Door in the Dragon's Throat (Cooper Kids Adventure Series) by Frank Peretti
Reading - Book Clubs: Hatchet, The Giver, or Matilda
Writing - January Writing Assignment
Spelling - No new unit this week
Grammar - Verbs Unit
Other - N/A
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Neighborhood House: Winter Trips

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 14 of 37

Sunny snowflakes in our windows!

December 11 - 14, 2017

Great job singing in the Christmas Concert last Friday, students! This is the final week of the 1st Trimester, which means that this is the last week to turn in any missing work or Correction Forms to count toward report cards. Other than the Book Chats we begin presenting on Monday, I will not be including any other assignments in this trimester's grades for report cards. That means that the grades you see on Renweb right now will be the same grades you see on report cards, unless missing work or Correction Forms are turned in. Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Nobody this week!

Topics to Talk About at Home

Hopefully all of my students have been practicing their Book Chats this weekend! To earn full points on their Book Chats (students begin presenting tomorrow), they need to make sure to get a parent signature on their Book Chat Form in the section that says they practiced presenting at home. Thanks to the adults at home for listening to their Book Chat practice!

Upcoming Events

NOW until Dec 13 - Take Action INC Food Drive! (more info below)
Dec 14 - Riedl Bank Auction #3
Dec 14 - Class Party: Christmas! (2:00-3:00)
Dec 14 - End of 1st Trimester
Dec 15 to Jan 01 - No School (Christmas Break)
Jan 02 - Start of 2nd Trimester
Jan 05 - Spirit Wear Day! Show WHCS School Spirit!
Jan 05 - Report Cards Emailed
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Discussing our plan for leading chapel | Memory verse: none |
Math - Chapter 3
Science - Light & Sound Unit
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Interactive Atlas
Read Aloud - The Door in the Dragon's Throat (Cooper Kids Adventure Series) by Frank Peretti
Reading - Book Clubs: Hatchet, The Giver, or Matilda | Book Chats begin Monday!
Writing - December Writing Assignment due Wednesday
Spelling - No unit this week
Grammar - Punctuation Unit | Test Thursday
Other - N/A
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Take Action INC Food Drive!

As a school, we are partnering with Take Action INC, to help meet the needs of 1,500+ kids in area schools who don't have enough food over the weekend. To encourage a little friendly competition, we are going to have a hallway 5th/6th grade challenge to see who can bring in the most pounds of food. For a list of suggested food items click here. The final weigh in will be December 13th. Let's go 5th grade!

Gifts for Reading Buddies

We will be exchanging gifts with our reading buddies in 1st grade at our Reading Buddy Christmas Party. Gifts should either be hand-made or less than $5 total (if store-bought). The party will be on Thursday, Dec. 14th, at 10:45am in our classroom, and we will participate in fun activities together, exchange gifts, have story time, and eat some tasty popcorn! We are excited!!

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 13 of 37

Work time

December 4 - 8, 2017

This Friday we will be the 5th and 6th Grade Christmas Concert! This is also the second week to donate items for the Take Action INC food drive, so please bring in donations to help kids who don't have much to eat at home on the weekends (more info below). Also, last week the 5th graders brought in only 1.7 pounds less than 6th grade, so let's bring in even more this week! Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Jonah Stone!

Topics to Talk About at Home

Hopefully you're continuing to check in about grades (on Renweb) at home together. The last day to turn in missing work and/or Correction Forms is the last day before Christmas Break, so let's be sure to do everything we can to be responsible before the end of the trimester!

Upcoming Events

NOW until Dec 13 - Take Action INC Food Drive! (more info below)
Dec 08 - Christmas Concert - 5th/6th Grade (7:00)
Dec 14 - Riedl Bank Auction #3
Dec 14 - Class Party: Christmas! (2:00-3:00)
Dec 14 - End of 1st Trimester
Dec 15 to Jan 01 - No School (Christmas Break)
Jan 02 - Start of 2nd Trimester
Jan 05 - Spirit Wear Day! Show WHCS School Spirit!
Jan 05 - Report Cards Emailed
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Lesson 6: Moses Serves God | Memory verse: 1 Corinthians 14:12 | Quiz Friday
Math - Chapter 3
Science - Light & Sound Unit
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Ancient Middle East Unit | Test Wednesday
Read Aloud - The Door in the Dragon's Throat (Cooper Kids Adventure Series) by Frank Peretti
Reading - Book Clubs: Hatchet, The Giver, or Matilda | Book Chats begin 12/11
Writing - December Writing Assignment: "If I Were Trapped In A Snow Globe"
Spelling - Unit 9
Grammar - Punctuation Unit | Test 12/14
Other - N/A
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Take Action INC Food Drive!

Gifts for Reading Buddies

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 12 of 37

Preparing for Student-Led Conferences

November 27 - December 1, 2017

Thanks again to all the parents who helped out with the party before Thanksgiving Break! We had a great time. It was also great to meet with so many families last week as we successfully got through our Student-Led Conferences! I was very proud of my students as a whole. The month of December usually zips by quickly, so let's be sure to work hard the next few weeks and earn the long Christmas Break ahead of us! Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Amy Ruhnke!

Topics to Talk About at Home

Please remind your child of their goal for the rest of the year, which they wrote down during our conference last week. Ask them open-ended questions about what specific steps they'll be taking this week that will help them work toward achieving their goal.

Upcoming Events

Nov 17 to Dec 13 - Take Action INC Food Drive! (details below)
Nov 27 - Riedl Bank Auction #2 (rescheduled from the 17th)
Nov 28 - Chorale After School (3:05-4:00)
Nov 30 - Riedl Bank Payday
Dec 01 - Riedl Bank Rent Due
Dec 01 - Spirit Wear Day! Show WHCS School Spirit!
Dec 08 - Christmas Concert - 5th/6th Grade (7:00)
Dec 14 - Riedl Bank Auction #3
Dec 14 - Class Party: Christmas! (2:00-3:00)
Dec 14 - End of 1st Trimester
Dec 15 to Jan 01 - No School (Christmas Break)
Jan 02 - Start of 2nd Trimester
Jan 05 - Report Cards Emailed
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Lesson 6: Moses Serves God | Memory verse: 1 Corinthians 14:12 |
Math - Chapter 2 | Test Friday
Science - Space Unit | Test Tuesday
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Ancient Middle East Unit
Read Aloud - The Door in the Dragon's Throat (Cooper Kids Adventure Series) by Frank Peretti
Reading - Introducing Book Chats | Book Chats begin 12/11
Writing - December Writing Assignment: "If I Were Trapped In A Snow Globe"
Spelling - Unit 8
Grammar - Punctuation Unit | Test 12/8
Other - Music [Mrs. Brumley] - Lyric Quiz #2 Monday
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Take Action INC Food Drive!

Gifts for Reading Buddies

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 11 of 37

Second group to Neighborhood House

November 13 - 17, 2017

Honored Guest Morning was a fun time last week! Thanks to all who came to visit. This week we will be finalizing our preparations for Student-Led Parent Conferences and then celebrating Thanksgiving Break with our first class party on Friday! Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

Jeryn Hildenbrand!

Topics to Talk About at Home

How are the preparations going for the Student-Led Conferences? Parents/guardians can be asking, "What are you feeling as you are preparing for the conference?" Some of my students might respond by saying, "I feel really good about it," while others might respond with, "I hope you don't get angry with me," and anywhere in between.

Upcoming Events

Nov 14 - Chorale After School (3:05-4:00)
Nov 17 - Class Party: Thanksgiving (1:20-2:30)
Nov 17 - Take Action INC. Food Drive begins today! (Kick-off assembly 2:30 in Auditorium)
Nov 20-21 - No School (Student-Led Conferences; more info here)
Nov 22-24 - No School (Thanksgiving Break)
Dec 01 - Spirit Wear Day! Show WHCS School Spirit!
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Lesson 5: Joseph Forgives | Memory verse: Genesis 50:20 | Quiz Friday
Math - Chapter 2
Science - Space Unit
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Fertile Crescent Unit | Test Monday
Read Aloud - Wonder: The Julian Chapter by R.J. Palacio
Reading - Prepping for Student-Led Conferences
Writing - Student-Led Conference Essay
Spelling - Unit 7
Grammar - Punctuation Unit
Other - N/A
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact

Newsletter: Week 10 of 37

First Riedl Bank Payday

November 6 - 9, 2017

We will be going on our second trip to Neighborhood House this Tuesday, and we will be welcoming our Honored Guests on Thursday morning! We are looking forward to hosting them. Lastly, there is no school on Friday, in honor of Veterans Day. Enjoy the three-day weekend! Make it a great week, everyone!

Person of the Week

None!

Topics to Talk About at Home

Last week, we finished out first Read Aloud book, Wonder by R.J. Palacio. Please talk about the details of the book at home and what we remembered from the story. Then, you can talk about what we are reading now, what we have been learning about bullies, and how sometimes knowing what is going on in their personal lives might help us feel sorry for them.

Upcoming Events

Nov 07 - Field Trip: Neighborhood House (Group 2) (9:15-10:45am)
Nov 09 - Honored Guest Morning (8:15-10:50am)
Nov 10 - No School (Veterans Day)
Nov 14 - Chorale After School (3:05-4:00)
Nov 17 - Class Party: Thanksgiving (1:30-2:30)
Nov 17 - Take Action INC. Food Drive begins today! (Kick-off assembly 2:30 in Auditorium)
Nov 20-21 - No School (Student-Led Conferences; more info here)
Nov 22-24 - No School (Thanksgiving Break)
Dec 01 - Spirit Wear Day! Show WHCS School Spirit!
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Curriculum and Exams

Bible - Lesson 5: Joseph Forgives | Memory verse: Genesis 50:20 |
Math - Chapter 2
Science - Space Unit | Space Project due Wednesday (details below)
Social Studies [Mrs. Hawkins] - Fertile Crescent Unit
Read Aloud - Wonder: The Julian Chapter by R.J. Palacio
Reading - Prepping for Student-Led Conferences
Writing - Student-Led Conference Essay
Spelling - No new unit this week
Grammar - Punctuation Unit
Other - N/A
View the Classroom Calendar for more

Field Trip: Neighborhood House (Group 2)

We will be going on our second trip to serve at Neighborhood House on Tuesday, November 7th! It will be a great opportunity to serve with our hands, donate our time to help our neighbors, and learn about the great things people are doing to help others in the city. Please read the important information about Neighborhood House HERE, which includes the waiver you need to print and sign. If you don't have a working printer at home, let me know and I can print it at school and send it home. Feel free to let me know if you have additional questions!

Space Project

The fifth graders are designing and constructing models of space projects to present in Science Lab on Wednesday, November 8th. The projects are to be made at home using materials found in the home. Please do not go out and spend money on this project. Lego pieces and similar toys can be used as part of the project if the design is original. No pre-made projects. The projects should be small enough to fit on a desk top. Ideas may include but are not limited to: A model of a space station, a device to help astronauts eat/drink/work in space, a space suit, a spacecraft, robot/rover with a specific purpose, a tool to use in space, a space colony or biosphere, design a sport to play in space, etc. Please direct any questions to Mr. Riedl or Mrs. Swain. Have fun creating!

Other School-wide Events

Be sure to read the WHCS Weekly News to learn more about other school-wide events at West Hills Christian School. It is emailed to the entire school regularly on Fridays. Thanks so much!

Teacher Contact