As I finish my first full year here, I want to take this opportunity to say what a pleasure it has been to work with all of the students, staff and families of Sprucedale Public School. There is a great sense of pride in this building and community. I very much appreciate how supportive parents have been whenever the school has called. Great education is only possible when educators and parents work together.
I also want to let you know that you have a great team of educators working for your children. I have worked in many different schools across the province and this group is second to none. Teachers teach because they love working with children but they also teach because they love to learn. Our staff is continually improving their teaching practice. We go to professional development regularly and are always looking for the right learning activities and strategies to match with various children. Each and every child is different and learns in a different way. It is extremely helpful when we meet with parents to talk specifically about how your child learns. We encourage you to contact your child’s teacher or Mr. Rauser in the office at any time if you have questions about learning.
We have a tentative school organization in place for next year. A school’s organization can change as students come and go out of a building. Schools sometimes reorganize in September based on changes in the number of students over the summer. Students and families will learn their class placement on September 5, 2017. We will begin our first day back by having an assembly in the gym.
Our tentative organization for 2017/2018 has eight classes organized in this way
JK/SK
SK/1
1/2
2/3
3/4
4/5
6/7
8
If you have any questions about anything that happens at Sprucedale PS, please do not hesitate to give me a call or to pop in and see me.
Respectfully,
Mr. Rauser
Planning for Next Year – Written requests only please
In late May or early June, the principal, in consultation with the staff, considers the most effective groupings of students (class placements) for instruction, for all students, for the upcoming school year. Principals and staff consider a range of factors, including, but not limited to, the academic, emotional and potential social benefits or concerns when placing a child in a given class. Please send written requests for class placements to Don Rauser in the office. Requests will be considered but we cannot guarantee that we will be able to accommodate all wishes. We do not share who is teaching what class until the fall as staffing will sometimes change over the summer.
Good Byes & Welcome Back
Congratulations to Mrs. Taylor who will be retiring at the end of June. Pat is cheerful and positive, has an amazing memory for names and has a genuine manner that makes people feel at ease. No matter how many interruptions in her day, Mrs. Taylor always has time for the children – reading, listening to their tales, or giving a huge smile as the kindergartens playfully try to sneak by her door without being noticed. Pat is a very hard worker but also adds a great sense of humour and fun loving spirit to the school. She shares that not a day goes by that she does not have a warm moment. Pat, you will be greatly missed by students, parents and staff.
At the end of June, we are also saying goodbye to two excellent teachers. Mrs. Reinecker, a contract teacher, will be moving to another school within Avon Maitland because we have reduced to eight classes at Sprucedale. We are also saying goodbye to Ms. Eicher who has been with us in the grade 5/6 class while Ms. Maddock was off on maternity leave. Both of these educators have done a tremendous job with their respective classes and will be a strong addition to whatever schools are lucky enough to receive them.
In terms of our Educational Assistants, Mrs. Ward, Ms. Wilker and Ms. Deweerd, we hope to see all of them back next year but at this time the staffing process for Educational Assistants has not yet been completed.
On the custodial front, we are very happy to report that Mr. Near and Mr. Wakelin will be with us until the end of June and potentially into the summer. The company that won the tender to clean Sprucedale Public School is still working to meet all necessary requirements before starting their work. I will share a full staff list in our first newsletter in September.
We welcome Mrs. Maddock back to the Sprucedale Teaching Staff in September. She has been off on maternity leave this year but will be returning to the classroom in the fall.
June Playground Fundraising Update
We did it! As a school community, we have surpassed our fundraising goal of 100,000 dollars.
Kyle Smith of Steve Smith Construction Limited excavated for the Playground on the weekend and the installation crew from Active Playground Equipment arrived on Monday May 29th. After Active Playground is done installing the Playground structure itself, Paul Bender from MTH Contracting & Consulting along with 5 Star Custom Concrete, Jim Sebben and community members will come in to do a concrete path that will surround the playground. Our thanks go out to Dufferin Concrete for donating a large portion of this concrete. This path will make the playground inclusive for young and old as they both play and watch play. Another feature to add to the accessibility is a very large rubberized path that will run across the width of the playground and make it easier to walk, wheel, dash or dive on the playground surface. Ure-Tech Surfaces Inc., experts in rubberized surfacing for playgrounds, will complete this path. Adding Engineered Wood Fibre (fancy mulch) to the balance of the playground is the next step. At some point along the way, benches and a recognition board will be added to the site. The recognition board, a beautiful sign honouring everyone who helped bring this playground to fruition, is being created by both the work and generosity of Heather and Kent Johnston of Kyjo Steel Inc. The Shakespeare Men’s Club and Kyjo Steel have donated benches so parents and grandparents can be comfortable while watching their children play. The next step is to have the Playground inspected to give it the safety seal before precious little ones begin years of fun. We hope to have children on the playground by Thursday, June 22nd but as with any construction project this is contingent on weather and each group meeting deadlines.
Our thanks go out to……
Julie & Kyle Wynette
The Tavistock Hop Company
Our thanks go out to Julie and Kyle Wynette for their generous donation to the Playground Fundraiser. The Wynette boys will see lots of years on the playground as Nash is currently in junior kindergarten and little brother Reid will become a Sabrecat in September 2018. Julie and Kyle are the proud proprietors of The Tavistock Hop Company – a local company growing high quality hops for the Craft Beer market. For more information about The Tavistock Hop Company and the family who run it, please go to https://thetavistockhopcompany.ca/
Heather & Kent Johnston
Kyjo Steel Inc.
We greatly appreciate the immense amount of work Heather Johnston, School Council Chair, has put into making this playground a reality. Heather is calm, always has a smile on her face, and has tremendous work ethic. Her steady hand has led the School Council in the fundraising drive, grant proposal writing and the design of a playground that all children will enjoy. Her own children, Lana and Wade, are also to be commended as they are often asked to act as the courier for paper correspondence or to pitch in on whatever project School Council has on the go. Both Lana and Wade share their parent’s positive dispositions. Kyjo Steel Inc. will receive permanent recognition on the playground site as a gold supporter.
Paul Bender MTH Contracting & Consulting
Jim Sebben
Jon Willsey & the team at Five Star Custom Concrete
Dufferin Concrete
Our thanks go out to these men and businesses for the work they are about to do to make our playground neat, clean and accessible to all. The concrete path they are going to form and pour will surround our playground and will not only make for an attractive walkway, it will help keep the various materials where they need to be. The path will also serve as a “trike path” for our youngest students during the school day. All of these individuals and firms will be on our permanent recognition board.
School Council
A special thank you to all of the members of the Sprucedale School council for their work this year. We have a wonderfully fun group of parents who have served our students and parents well. This group has been instrumental every step of the way in planning, designing and raising funds for the playground. In addition, they provide input on school matters at meetings and make suggestions for improving our school. I encourage other parents to join the School Council – it is a great way to get involved in your school. Our next meeting is being held on Wednesday, June 14 at 7:00 p.m. in the Sprucedale Library.
Members of our school council include:
Heather Johnston – Chair and Treasurer
April Ische
Deanna Jacobs
Kim Leis
Jen McKone
Heather Peters – Secretary
Hilary Reinecker – Staff Representative
Erin Roth
Erin Schlegel
Angela Schyff
Tracey Segeren
Amy Simons
Amy Taylor
Cailin Vince – Secretary
Last Day of School & First Day of School
Thursday June 29th is the students’ last day of school for the 2016-2017 school year.
Tuesday September 5th is the first day back for students in grade 1 to 8. Senior Kindergarten students’ first day is Wednesday, September 6th as Tuesday is set aside for interviews with the new JK students.
Report Cards
Report Cards will be going home on Monday June 26th. Please sign and return page 3 for us prior to the last day of school.
Garden
Our thanks go out to Dianne Harris for her work in the Sprucedale gardens. Plants and gardening are remarkably good learning for children and the gardens are loved by young and old alike at Sprucedale. Dianne, thank you for continuing to lead this initiative.
Food Days, Milk and snack program.
A huge thank you to Tara Weitzel, Angela Allen, Krista Sebben, Suzanne Mitchell, Heather Johnston and Mrs. Taylor for their work with food days and milk this year. Food days give kids and staff something to look forward to each week. Tara and Angela have been in the kitchen preparing and serving food while Krista, Heather, Suzanne and Mrs. Taylor have helped out with counting money and organizing orders.
We would also like to thank Jen McKone, Pam Miller, Gary West and Mrs. Taylor for their work with the snack program and fresh fruit days. Jen has purchased, prepared and delivered fresh fruit and veggie trays to our classrooms on many occasions this year. Offering students healthy food options and being encouraged to try fruit and veggies with peers has been a huge hit. Pam Miller has been a great shopper and customized snack preparer for our Snack Program. The kids have loved the delicious and healthy treats presented. Our thanks also go out to Gary West and the local Egg producers for providing our snack program with healthy hard boiled eggs. These are an excellent source of nutrition and are enjoyed by the students. Finally our thanks go out to Mrs. Taylor who as an extra to an already full workload has been kind enough to organize snacks and student volunteers each and every day. Mrs. Taylor takes care of the reporting to the Ontario Student Nutrition program (a program administered by the VON) for the snack program.
Lost and Found
We have a lot of sweaters and hoodies in our Lost and Found box that will be given to charity at the end of June if not claimed. We have some devices here as well that can be claimed upon description.
School Year Calendar 2017/2018
The school year calendar has been prepared for the 2017/2018 School Year. It can be found at http://yourschools.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/2017-2018-SchoolCalendar.pdf.
In the new school year, the professional development days fall on September 29th, November 3rd, December 1st, February 2nd, April 27th, June 8th and June 29th.
]]>School Learning Goals for the 2016-2017 School Year
1) Increase our Content Knowledge (i.e. Understand the math we are teaching more deeply)
2) Improved Assessment – Observations, Conversations, Products – we can only help students if we know very precisely what they know and what they do not know.
3) Establish better learning goals – good math teaching has a very specific goal defined for each lesson
Morning
Representations and Place Value – Andrea, Jen & Don Sharing some of the learning from our Sessions.
Reflecting on Our Math Learning This Year. What have you learned in terms of …
Content knowledge Assessment practices Learning Goals
Afternoon
Numeracy Assessment Portfolio
Primary Team and Junior Team – time to review program specific to grade – compare practice, what has worked, what has not worked.
]]>As we begin these final two months of school, I thought I would share a couple of reminders to help keep learning moving in the right direction.
Routine and rest are great friends for children. Regular routines (i.e. a set time we do homework, a set bedtime) let children know what to expect and that is reassuring for children and adults. Routine also reduces the number of squabbles as children argue less when they realize this is the way it is, this is what we do in our home. Children (and adults) who come to school well rested seem to get a whole lot more accomplished and have fewer disagreements. Although we are happy the days are getting longer, please send them to school “rested and ready”. We still have one fifth of the school year remaining, we need to make good of use of it.
Regular attendance and punctuality are critical to both academic and social learning. In schools we are continually trying to get better at teaching children so we often look at cases in which children have been successful and cases in which children have been less successful. It isn’t revolutionary, but there is a direct link between good attendance, punctuality and academic success. Children who come to school on time and who miss very few days learn more than children who do not. That being said, we understand that children get sick, especially children who are new to school and thus are exposed to a whole new set of viruses to which their bodies are not yet immune. Simply put, send them to school on time unless they are sick. We understand that doctors and dentists want to schedule appointment during the day, and this is sometimes unavoidable, we are simply trying to minimize absence so we can provide your child(ren) with the best education possible.
Please drop by the office, call me or email if you would like to talk about anything related to your child’s learning.
Mr. Rauser
Planning for Next Year – Written requests only please
In late May or early June, the principal, in consultation with the staff, considers the most effective groupings of students (class placements) for instruction, for all students, for the upcoming school year. Principals and staff consider a range of factors, including, but not limited to, the academic, emotional and potential social benefits or concerns when placing a child in a given class. Please send written requests for class placements to Don Rauser in the office. Requests will be considered but we cannot guarantee that we will be able to accommodate all wishes. Class placements are announced on the first day of school. Mr. Rauser will be sharing a tentative school organization with the school community in June. We do not share who is teaching what class until the fall as staffing will sometimes change over the summer.
EQAO
All our Grade 3 and Grade 6 students will be participating in EQAO assessment in May. Grade 3 and 6 testing will take place May 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, June 1. We ask that you avoid appointments, trips or other absences that can be rescheduled, during that week for students in those grades. Encourage them to get a good night’s sleep, arrive on time and do their best. They may like to be sure to have a bottle of water with them. Chewing gum during the assessment or nibbling on a few extra snacks can also be helpful.
May Playground Fundraising Update
Donations continue to come in as Sprucedale Public School and the Shakespeare Community work together to raise enough money to build a new playground. When we reach our goal, we will announce it to the students at the school first and then we will send out a message to the school community and our many supporters. We are optimistic that announcement may come very soon.
Our thanks go out to……
The Shakespeare Optimist Club
A huge thank you to all of the members of The Shakespeare Optimist Club for their incredibly generous donation to the Sprucedale PS Playground Fund. The Optimists, Friend of Youth, have long been strong supporters of children and youth in this community. The Optimists’ mission is to bring out the best in youth, our communities and ourselves by providing hope and a positive vision. The Optimist Club of Shakespeare will receive permanent recognition on the playground site as a Platinum Supporter.
For those still wishing to make a donation…..
Playground donations can be made online at CanadaHelps http://bit.ly/SprucedalePLAY using VISA, Mastercard and American Express. You also able to mail or drop off at the school a cheque payable to the Foundation for Education – Sprucedale Playground on Memo Line. Cash donations are also welcome in the office. Any donation of 20 dollars or more will receive a charitable donation receipt. Donations of 250 or more will receive print recognition and donations greater than 500 dollars will receive permanent on site recognition.
Message from the YMCA
Hello YMCA Families!
We are welcoming Child Care Supervisor, Krystle Linden back from Maternity Leave mid-May!
Registration forms for the YMCA’S Summer JK/SK Ready Set Go program are available. To register your child, for more program information and cost please contact Ashley Rose, Jenn Davis or Krystle Linden at 519-271-0480. The last three PA Days of the year are fast approaching on May 8th, June 9th and June 30th. If you need care on any of these days please register at your child’s Before and After School Program or call Alenka Watson at 519-273-9622.
Easy Fundraiser
You should have received home a New Orleans School Fundraising Night flyer. This is the easiest fundraiser ever. For every order you place with New Orleans Pizza in either Tavistock or Stratford on May 8, 9 and 10, the school will receive 50% of the sale. We have a few extra flyers at the school if you did not receive one.
In addition to our focus on Math, we have had been working on the area of student voice. As a board we have been looking at the work of Russell Quaglia. His research suggests that when students have a voice they are 7 times more likely to be successful. Our school has worked hard to emphasize student choice in classrooms academically and our style of classroom management is a democratic one where problems are often discussed in a whole class format. As a result of discussions with students, we are becoming more conscious of offering extra-curricular options for students that are in addition to the regular things like competitive sports. The chess club, Me to We, and Spirit Club are examples. We would like to try to offer other “non-sport” extracurricular activities.
This year we had a group of Intermediate students participate in a student voice symposium in November. We are engaging them in discussions about how to better include student voice in our work as educators. We have also had intermediate students attend the School Council meetings each month in order to have student representatives at the table. Students have also worked with me to write and submit a grant proposal to support non-traditional extracurricular activities at Sprucedale PS. It is through collaboration between staff and students we can continue to make our school a better place.
March Playground Fundraising Update
Oh, so close…….
Donations continue to come in as Sprucedale Public School and the Shakespeare Community work together to raise enough money to build a new playground. We are just about there…… check out one of our preferred designs on the Sprucedale PS website. https://avonmaitlandschools.ca/sprucedale/
We have recently had some generous donations from a couple of families and a very supportive local business. Our thanks go out to……
The West Family
Our sincere appreciation goes out to Brenda, Gary, Danielle and Adam West for their generous donation to the Sprucedale Public School Playground fund. The West family are strong supporters of the school and community. Dylan and Sophie West, Danielle and Adam’s children, are the third generation to attend Sprucedale Public School. Gary West was sitting in a desk on the day Sprucedale Public School first opened its doors. Adam and Amy, Gary and Brenda’s children, also spent their elementary years learning at this fine establishment. The West Family will receive permanent recognition on the playground site as gold supporters.
Jeff & Cathy Sparling – Shakespeare Mills Inc.
Our thanks go out to Jeff and Cathy Sparling of Shakespeare Mills. Although Jeff and Cathy do not have children at Sprucedale Public School, they feel it is important to be good neighbours and a strong community supporter. Shakespeare Mills Inc. will have permanent recognition on our playground site as Silver Supporters. Shakespeare Mills can be reached at 519 625-8219 for all of your agricultural feed needs.
Deanna and Craig Jacobs & Family
Our thanks go out to Deanna and Craig Jacobs for their generous donation to the playground fund. The Jacob’s sons, Carson and Dylan, currently attend Sprucedale Public School and their little sister Grace will be joining the boys in 2018. The Jacobs Family will have permanent recognition on the playground site as Silver Supporters.
For those still wishing to make a donation…..
Playground donations can be made online at CanadaHelps http://bit.ly/SprucedalePLAY using VISA, Mastercard and American Express. You are also able to mail or drop off at the school a cheque payable to the Foundation for Education – Sprucedale Playground on Memo Line. Cash donations are also welcome in the office. Any donation of 20 dollars or more will receive a charitable donation receipt. Donations of 250 or more will receive print recognition and donations greater than 500 dollars will receive permanent on site recognition.
Message from YMCA for after school program:
Hello YMCA Families,
We hope everyone who made it to our Pre Registration for 2017-2018 last month had a positive experience. We will be able to confirm spaces soon with a phone call and confirmation on your September deposit.
If you have interest in our before and after school programs and would like to inquire, please contact Jenn Davis or Ashley Rose at 519-271-0480 or by email at and
If you have interest in our YMCA PA Day Programs, please contact Alenka Watson at 519-273-9622
Thank you
Community Events:
March Break Camp at Stratford Perth Museum. March 13 – 17, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. To register, contact Kayla Droog at 519-393-5315 or
]]>You may be aware from past newsletters and reports in the media that math is an ongoing focus in schools locally and across the province. In fact, the importance of math is highlighted in recent research that has shown “…numerical skills are a more important predictor of subsequent academic achievement than early reading and socio-emotional skills.” (Ansari, 2015). Dr. Ansari’s work goes on to talk about early math skills as a predictor of adult socioeconomic status. It is not hard to be convinced about the importance of math skills, but these findings certainly emphasize they are more significant than we might have first thought.
So what does this mean for families? Your support of math learning can occur in a variety of ways – some of which are not entirely about doing math but your attitudes towards math as an adult. See the attached resource from Jo Boaler, a professor from Stanford University who has been doing extensive research in math. Many people get caught in the debate that sometimes occurs between learning skills (procedures) and problem solving methods that build understanding (concepts). Dr. Ansari’s work is helpful because he clearly says both are important and that these should not be presented as opposing sides. We need a balance between the two approaches so that we have students who understand math and can think flexibly while also doing so with fluency because they can use skills efficiently. For the full article see Education Canada, Sept 2015. If you wish, let me know and I can get you the article.
February Playground Fundraising Update
Generosity Continues – Almost at our goal.
Donations large and small continue to come in as Sprucedale Public School and the Shakespeare Community work together to raise enough money to build a new playground. Thanks to all who took part in the Elmira Chicken Sales. Five dollars per box sold goes directly to the Playground Fund. We estimate that the fundraiser raised just over 2700 dollars. We have broken the 95,000 dollar mark. Less than 5000 dollars to go! We have also continued to see support from our local businesses and families. Our thanks go out to……
Krista & Wayne Gummerson @ Shakespeare Truck Centre
Our appreciation goes out to Krista & Wayne Gummerson at the ShakespeareTruck Center for their most generous donation to the Sprucedale Playground fund. Krista Gummerson (nee Yantzi) attended Sprucedale PS with her brothers Kevin and Tim. Krista remembers the excitement of new playground being installed when she was in about grade three. The beehive climbing structure and the green combination climbing/slide structure were extremely popular. The first day students were allowed to use the new equipment, most of the primary grades stood in line for the whole recess waiting for a turn to use it. Wayne and Krista’s nieces, Leah and Morgan, attend Sprucedale while nephew Reese graduated in 2016 (Tim & Joanne’s children). Shakespeare Truck Center will be recognized with permanent recognition on the playground site as a Gold Supporter. You can reach the Truck Center for all of your big truck needs at 519-625-8510 or visit them on their website at http://dealers.macktrucks.com/shakespearetruckcenter
Elaine & Dale Leis
A big thank you to Elaine and Dale Leis for supporting our playground fundraising. Elaine and Dale’s children, Greg and Kim Leis, both attended Sprucedale PS. When Greg and Kim were in school, Elaine was an active member of the Parent Council – working in classrooms, helping with electives, and preparing grilled cheese and hotdog lunches. Kim has taken over where her mom left off and is now an active member of the Sprucedale PS School Council. Kim and husband Dave’s daughter, Leah Ruby, now attends her mom and dad’s Alma matter. The Leis Family will have permanent recognition on the playground site as Silver Supporters.
Sebben and McKone Families.
Our thanks to the Sebben and McKone families for their generous donation to the Playground Fund. Jim and Krista Sebben (Ashley, graduate, and Russel), Mike and Christina Sebben (Izzy & Abby), and Jen and Keith McKone (Logan and Julia) will have permanent recognition on the playground site as Silver Supporters. Jim, Mike and Jen are all proud graduates of Sprucedale School and now live and work in the local community.
Thank you to all for your generous support – we are going to make it
For those still wishing to make a donation…..
Playground donations can be made online at CanadaHelps http://bit.ly/SprucedalePLAY using VISA, Mastercard and American Express. You also able to mail or drop off at the school a cheque payable to the Foundation for Education – Sprucedale Playground on Memo Line. Cash donations are also welcome in the office. Any donation of 20 dollars or more will receive a charitable donation receipt. Donations of $250 or more will receive print recognition and donations greater than 500 dollars will receive permanent on site recognition.
“Drum Away The Winter Blahs” – Playground Fundraiser
Mrs. Green will be facilitating a Drum Circle on Thursday, Feb. 23 in the Sprucedale Gym
6:00 to 8:00 PM
20$ for 2 hour training and drum session.
15$ Each if you bring a friend with you.
All fees will be donated to the playground fundraiser
Please register by sending a note and payment to the school, addressed to Mrs. Green
(In case of poor weather, posts will be made to Facebook and Twitter)
Mrs. Green is selling her children’s book, Sammy Swan’s Summer Adventure In Stratford, to help raise money for the playground. For every book sold, Mrs. Green will donate 10$ from each book to the playground fund. She will be taking orders later this month.
Volunteer Needed:
We need a parent or grandparent volunteer to help with preparing the grilled cheese sandwiches on Food Days for the next couple of months. We have one parent who is already involved with this task but grilled cheese preparation needs 2 people. Next grilled cheese day is Wednesday, February 15 and would involve about three hours. The next grilled cheese day after that is Wednesday, March 22. Please call the office if you are available.
School Crossing Guard Hours:
The school crossing guard is available to help children cross the road from 8:30 to 9:00 in the morning and at 3:15 to 3:45 in the afternoon.
Kindergarten Registration for September 2017
If you missed our Kindergarten Registration Day in November, please call the school and we can get you a registration package. Please tell any neighbours or friends that have a child who will be attending Kindergarten next September.
Pre-Registration for the After School Program:
Hello Sprucedale Families,
We are already in the month of February and our 2017-2018 Annual Program Pre Registration of internal families will be happening on Feb 13, 2017 at the after school program located in the school. That means that any available spaces that are for the 2017-2018 school year will be open to the public on a first come first serve basis starting Monday March 6th, 2017. For inquiry about registration you can phone the YMCA 519-271-0480 and speak to Lori Darling, Ashley Rose or Jenn Davis. March break is fast approaching so this is just a friendly reminder for you if you still need to arrange for fun activities for your children over the break. You can contact Alenka Watson for more information 519-273-9622. If you’re interested in the After School Program this year, please contact Jenn at 519-271-0480 or , I have openings!
Tavistock Tornadoes Optimist Soccer Registration Dates – mark your calendars !
Who: Players turning 4 in 2017 ( Birth Year 2013 ), up to players turning 21 in 2017 (Birth Year 1996 )
What: Co-Ed Soccer Registration for : House League teams (ages 4-7) and Travel teams (ages 8-21)
Where: Tavistock District Recreation Center Arena – Upper Hall
When: Thursday, February 23, 7 p.m.- 9 p.m. and Saturday, February 25, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Registration forms and further information is available on our website at www.tavistocksoccer.com. The soccer program for all public school aged players will start in late April and is wrapped up by the end of July. The Tavistock Soccer club collaborates with several different organizations to encourage kids to play soccer. If you want your child to play, but you cannot afford the registration fees, please talk to the convenor contact below. We can make arrangements to cover fees so that “No One Gets Left Behind !“
Note that we have a Special Needs soccer program that runs for approx 6 weeks in the summer. Please inquire for more details.
For further information contact: Marlow Gingerich Tavistock Tornadoes Optimist Youth Soccer Convenor
by phone 519-655-3237 or by email .
Shakespeare and Community Athletic Association 2017 Minor Sports Registration
Registration day is Wednesday, February 8 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Shakespeare Optimist Hall, side meeting room.
The deadline for registration is Thursday, February 16.
Registration forms were sent home this week.
YouCubed: Advice for Parents regarding Math from Professor Jo Boaler:
Do you remember how excited your children were about maths* when they were young? How they were excited by patterns in nature? How they rearranged a set of objects and found, with delight, that they had the same number? Before children start school they often talk about maths with curiosity and wonder, but soon after they start school many children decide that maths is confusing and scary and they are not a “math person”.
This is because maths in many schools is all about procedures, memorization and deciding which children can and which cannot. Maths has become a performance subject and students of all ages are more likely to tell you that math is all about answering questions correctly than tell you about the beauty of the subject or the way it piques their interest.
Given the performance and test-driven culture of our schools, with over-packed curriculum and stressed outstudents, what can parents do to transform maths for their children? Here are some steps to take:
Advice for Parents, from Professor Jo Boaler.
Encourage children to play maths puzzles and games. Award winning mathematician, Sarah Flannery reported that her math achievement and enthusiasm came not from school but from the puzzles she was given to solve at home. Puzzles and games – anything with a dice really – will help kids enjoy maths, and develop number sense, which is critically important.
Always be encouraging and never tell kids they are wrong when they are working on maths problems. Instead find the logic in their thinking – there is always some logic to what they say. For example if your child multiplies 3 by 4 and gets 7, say – Oh I see what you are thinking, you are using what you know about addition to add 3 and 4, when we multiply we have 4 groups of 3…
Never associate maths with speed. It is not important to work quickly, and we now know that forcing kids to work quickly on maths is the best way to start maths anxiety for children, especially girls. Don’t use flashcards or other speed drills. Instead use visual activities such as https://bhi61nm2cr3mkdgk1dtaov18-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/FluencyWithoutFear-2015.pdf
Never share with your children the idea that you were bad at maths at school or you dislike it – especially if you are a mother. Researchers found that as soon as mothers shared that idea with their daughters, their daughter’s achievement went down.
Perhaps most important of all – encourage a “growth mindset” let students know that they have unlimited maths potential and that being good at maths is all about working hard. When children have a growth mindset,they do well with challenges and do better in school overall. When children have a fixed mindset and they encounter difficult work, they often conclude that they are not “a math person”. One way in which parents encourage a fixed mindset is by telling their children they are “smart” when they do something well. Thatseems like a nice thing to do, but it sets children up for difficulties later, as when kids fail at something they will inevitably conclude that they aren’t smart after all. Instead use growth praise such as “it is great that you have learned that”, “I really like your thinking about that”. When they tell you something is hard for them, or they have made a mistake, tell them: “That’s wonderful, your brain is growing!”
Encourage number sense. What separates high and low achievers is number sense – having an idea of the size of numbers and being able to separate and combine numbers flexibly. For example, when working out 29 +56, if you take one from the 56 and make it 30 + 55, it is much easier to work out. The flexibility to work withnumbers in this way is what is called number sense and it is very important.
For more resources see https://www.youcubed.org
I use maths, rather than math, partly because I am from the UK and we say maths there and partly because maths is short for mathematicS, it is a plural noun. Mathematics was chosen to be plural to reflect all the many parts of mathematics – drawing, modeling, asking questions, communicating, etc. Math sounds more singular and narrow (Do the math, usually means do a calculation!), and I prefer to keep the idea that maths is a multidimensional and varied set of mathematical forms and ideas.
Online Courses for Students, Teachers and Parents
https://www.youcubed.org/category/mooc/
Student Page
https://www.youcubed.org/students/
Parent Page
https://www.youcubed.org/parents/
Recommended Apps and Games
https://www.youcubed.org/category/teaching-ideas/math-apps/
More Information about Brain Science
https://www.youcubed.org/think-it-up/
Jo’s Mindset Book
Maths Tasks to Do At Home
https://www.youcubed.org/tasks/
Summer Camp Video
https://www.youcubed.org/youcubed-summer-math-camp-2015/
Week of Inspirational Maths Curriculum
]]>With the new year comes the opportunity to look back and reflect on 2016 and plan ahead for 2017. Looking back at 2016, I am extremely proud of the students, staff, families and community at Sprucedale Public School. When I arrived to the task of working with School Council to raise 100 thousand dollars to build a playground, I thought it was a very challenging task. The response and contributions from every school member – students, staff, parents, community groups, municipality, School Board, and business – has been remarkable. In 12 short months we have almost reached our goal. Working together on this task has given me the opportunity to get to know the various stakeholders. I have learned that there is immense pride in this community and in Sprucedale School. People are excited when they share with me that their grandchildren are the third generation to attend Sprucedale. Our community groups – The Optimists, The OptiMrs, The Shakespeare Men’s Club, the Shakespeare Athletic Association, The Shakespeare Presbyterian Church and The Shakespeare Firefighters’ Association – are strong and active and willing to do what it takes to make our community better. I see this both in what the adults have done to support the school but I also see it in the behaviour of the children who attend the school. Although there always is some conflict when you put more than 203 people together, on the whole the behaviour of our students is exemplary. In a population of 203 people you always have people who struggle in some capacity or another. The fact that there are people who struggle is common to all buildings. The defining piece is how people respond to help those who need help. On a daily basis I see children helping each other and a staff who goes above and beyond to help children learn whatever it may be they need to improve. 2016 has been incredibly positive.
Looking ahead to 2017, I am excited that we have student leaders ready and willing to start taking a more active role in planning and acting on explicit activities to help more and more students feel fully and completely connected to the school. I have been amazed by how insightful and positive the children have been when challenged with the task of building an even more inclusive school environment.
In terms of learning, staff is working to get better at teaching mathematics. Mathematics is a word that brings up negative feelings for many people in society – a sad reflection on a subject that really is not that scary. I applaud staff for being open to improving their professional practice and collaborating to find out what practices are most effective for our students.
I look forward to another fun year of learning at Sprucedale Public School. At any time, if you have any questions, comments or concerns, please come in and see me.
Most respectfully,
Mr. Rauser
School Council Report
Happy New Year!
2016 was a very busy year for our small, but mighty school council! We kicked off our playground fundraising with a spaghetti dinner on Feb 1 and have not looked back. We are very close to reaching our $100,000 goal. With a final push to the finish, we are confident that we will have a new playground for the community to enjoy in 2017.
I would like to thank our Sprucedale families, the communities of Shakespeare and surrounding area, and the community groups for all their help and support in 2016. Also, I would like to thank all members of school council for their hard work, commitment and dedication to supporting and enhancing life at Sprucedale.
There will not be a meeting in January but we will meet on February 8, 2017 at 7:00 in the school library. Everyone is welcome!
Heather Johnston School Council Chair
Playground Fund Breaks $90,000 mark. Only $10,000 to go
Thanks to generous donations from community, families who are proud Alma mater of Sprucedale, and local businesses we have hit the 90,000 dollar threshold on our road to a new playground. We are getting close. With a final push in January we hope to meet our 100,000 goal and have an exciting new playground installed in 2017. Only $10,000 dollars to go……
Most recently, our thanks go out to….The Smith Family – Steve Smith Construction
Our thanks go out to the Smith Family for their very generous donations to our playground fund. Steve and Lynda Smith, along with their sons Kyle and Kody are the proprietors of Steve Smith Construction. Kyle and Mellanie Smith’s son Weston, now in kindergarten at Sprucedale, is the third generation of Smith boys to walk the halls of Sprucedale Public School. Lynda Smith had been the chair of the Sprucedale Parent Council and worked with other parents to raise funds to build the last set of playground equipment. Steve Smith Construction has a history of supporting Sprucedale PS as they had provided excavation services for that playground project as well. The Smiths will be recognized as Platinum Supporters on the playground site.
Duane and Jennifer Dietrich & Family
Our thanks go out to Duane and Jennifer Dietrich for their generous donation to the Playground Fundraiser. Duane attended Sprucedale Public School for all of his elementary school years and now Jennifer and Duane son’s, Kole and Chase are students at Sprucedale Public School. The Dietrich’s will be recognized with permanent recognition on the playground site as Gold Supporters.
Rose and Ross Yantzi
A big thank you to Rose and Ross Yantzi for supporting our playground fundraising. Reid Yantzi and Roslyn McLaren, Ross and Rose’s children attended Sprucedale Public School. Now Roslyn McLaren’s (and husband Matthew’s) three children – Taya, Kalia and Ciana -attend their mother’s Alma mater. The Yantzis are the proprietors of Ross Yantzi’s Pavestone Plus Ltd. Pavestone Plus can be reached at 519-655-2298. The Yantzi Family will have permanent recognition on the playground site as Gold Supporters.
Sebben AG Drainage Systems Ltd.
Our thanks go out to Sebben AG Drainage Systems Ltd for their generous donation to the playground fund. Sebben AG Drainage, originally founded by Hamilton Sebben, has been providing quality drainage services for 60 years. Sebben Drainage is still family owned and operated with the proprietors, all Sebbens, being Brian and Trudy, John and Lois, and Kyle and Christy. Sebben AG Drainage will have permanent recognition on the playground site as gold supporters. Sebben Drainage can be reached at 519 465-4424.
Trudy and Brian Sebben
We greatly appreciate the support of Trudy and Brian Sebben for their donation to the playground fund. Brian began his school career on Pork Street and then finished grade seven and eight at the current Sprucedale Public School location. All of Trudy and Brian’s children, Erin (Klumper), Sara (Reath), Kendra (Lange) and Kyle attended Sprucedale Public School. Now the third generation of Sebben descendants are students at Sprucedale PS. Neely & Harlyn Lange (Jason & Kendra) and Bentley Sebben (Kyle and Christy) now attend. Trudy and Brian’s donation will be recognized on the playground site as silver supporters.
Matt and Melissa Hodgson and Family
Our thanks go out to Melissa and Matt Hodgson for their generous donation to the playground fund. The Hodgson’s sons Benson and Keagan currently attend Sprucedale Public School and their youngest, Quin, will be joining the school in 2018. The Hodgson Family will have permanent recognition on the playground site as Silver Supporters.
Steve and Gail Yantzi – Yantzi’s Feed and Seed Ltd.
Thanks to Steve and Gail Yantzi of Yantzi’s Feed and Seed Ltd for their generous contribution to the playground fundraiser. Steve and Gail are strong community supporters who proudly shared that their children Ryan Yantzi and Amber Ballantyne are both graduates of Sprucedale Pubic School. Yantzi’s Feed and Seed Farm Service Centre is in Tavistock and can be reached by calling 519 655-2033. Yantzi’s Feed and Seed Ltd will have permanent recognition on the playground site as Silver Supporters.
Theresa Scholten – Bulk Tech Inc.
Our thanks go out to Theresa Scholten of Bulk Tech Inc. for her generous donation to the Sprucedale Community Playground Fund. Please do not hesitate to contact Bulk Tech for any of your bin storage needs at 519-625-1550. Bulk Tech Inc., a good neighbor of Sprucedale PS, will have permanent recognition on the playground site as Silver Supporters.
The Cooper Family
A big thank you to Elizabeth and Steve Cooper and their sons Graham and Josh for their generous support of our Playground Fundraiser. Graham and Josh Cooper are both alumni of Sprucedale PS. The Cooper Family believe strongly in community service. Elizabeth was involved in the school supporting Early Literacy, costuming for musicals, running Book Fairs and School Council. The Cooper Family will have permanent recognition on the playground site as Silver Supporters.
Don and Carol McKay – D&D Electric Ltd.
A big thank you to the McKay Family from D&D Electric Limited of Tavistock for their generous donation to the Sprucedale Playground Fund. Although the McKay’s did not attend Sprucedale Public School, D&D Electric proudly provides quality Electrical Services to Sprucedale families and local businesses. Our thanks go out to this community minded business. D&D can be reached at 519-603-2924 and is located at 3565 Perth Road 107 Tavistock. D&D are bronze supporters.
Thank you to all for your generous support – we are going to make it.
For those still wishing to make a donation…..
Playground donations can be made online at CanadaHelps http://bit.ly/SprucedalePLAY using VISA, Mastercard and American Express. You are also able to mail or drop off at the school a cheque payable to the Foundation for Education – Sprucedale Playground on Memo Line. Cash donations are also welcome in the office. Any donation of 20 dollars or more will receive a charitable donation receipt. Donations of 250 dollars or more will receive print recognition and donations greater than 500 dollars will receive permanent on site recognition.
Elmira Chicken Fundraiser
School Council will be selling Elmira Chicken in January as a fundraiser. Order forms will go home on Friday January 13th, 2017 and are to be returned to the school by Friday January 27th, 2017. If Elmira Chicken is a product your family uses, we invite you to participate, but like all of our fundraiser, it is totally voluntary. Chicken will arrive at Sprucedale Public School on Wednesday February 15th, 2017 and can be picked up from 3 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.
Food Days on Snow Days
In the event of an inclement weather day resulting in bus cancellations or school closure on a Wednesday Food Day, the pizza or hot dogs or grilled cheese day will be moved to the next day, Thursday.
Kindergarten Registration for September 2017
If you missed our Kindergarten Registration Day in November, please call the school and we can get you a registration package. Please tell any neighbours or friends that have a child who will be attending Kindergarten next September.
Message from the YMCA After School Program:
Hello! We hope everyone had a warm and safe holiday spent with your loved ones. Our school age programs are in full swing, enjoying our outdoor time in the snow. Please remember to pack warm clothing and appropriate outdoor attire as we are outside in the morning and afternoon. YMCA Pre-Registration will be coming up soon. We will be running our pre-registration at the individual schools this year to help with the hustle and bustle. We will be supplying the dates in the near future so please stay tuned. Please contact Jenn at [email protected] for more information about our School Age program.
The Shakespeare Opti-Mrs are hosting a Movie Night:
When: Wednesday Feb 1/17 Where: Shakespeare Optimist Hall Doors Open: 6:30 pm Movie: 7:00-9:00 pm Ages: Grade 1-6
Come out for a movie, popcorn and refreshments.
]]>In this month’s message I would like to continue to share some ideas about learning mathematics.
It is my belief that well-meaning educators over the past whatever number of years have done the best they can with the knowledge they have. I loved school as a student and I still have fond memories of teachers who worked very hard to help me learn. That being said, I believe we now know better ways to teach and if we know better we have to do better.
For example, some children and adults are able to learn math facts through simple rote memorization. If flashcards and memorization works for you and your children, this is an appropriate way to learn math facts. However, what we have now learned (and probably the strongest teachers decades ago figured this out on their own), is that many children who have only memorized math facts simply forget their math facts after a few weeks if they are not practicing. For many students thinking about number relationships and strategies is a much better way to learn math facts. For example, to figure out what 9 times 7 is one might think that ten seven’s are 70 so 9 seven’s must be 7 less than seventy or 63. Focusing on the relationships involved in numbers in this way helps children move facts and number relationships into long term memory. Do you have certain number relationships that help you remember math facts?
Good math does not have to be rushed or done under the clock. As soon as undue time pressure is added, many people get the “fight or flight response” and their brain function reduces. When children and adults are relaxed, their brains work well, they can think of number relationships and learn math facts that will stick with them in the long term.
If you ever want to talk math, or any other subject, stop by and see me. Mrs. Taylor may have to radio me because I will likely be in one of the classrooms trying to learn with students and teachers.
School Council Report:
Wow!! Thank-you!! These two words sum up my thoughts about the success of our dance a thon held last Friday! It was a day filled with fun, laughter, lots of smiles and of course some awesome dance moves!! We raised $3400 towards our new playground. That is more than we ever thought we would raise. It just proves what we already knew – that we live in a very supportive community! Our Sprucedale Sabrecats worked hard to get sponsors and I can let you know that everyone lived up to their promise to dance, dance, dance!! Way to go Sabrecats!
We are getting really close to reaching our goal! We have added the $70,000 rung on our ladder to the top of the slide – it will not be long now and we will be at the top of that ladder and ready to slide down that slide to the installation of a new playground for our community to enjoy!
Our next meeting will be December 7 at 7:00 in the library – everyone is welcome!
Sprucedale Playground Fund Continues to Grow Through Generous Donations:
We have broken the $75,000 mark on our Playground Fundraising Slide and we are feeling more optimistic that with a solid final push we may be able to get new equipment installed for September 2017. Our thanks go out to every student and every parent, grandparent and friend who has contributed time and time again to help us chip away at our 100,000 dollar goal. Every donation counts and makes an impact. We would also like to recognize the following supporters:
The Schlegel Family
Clare and Catherine Schlegel have made a very generous donation to our playground fund. Clare Schlegel was a student sitting in Ms. Million’s grade one classroom when Sprucedale Public School originally opened. Catherine and Clare’s children Adam, Tobin and Benjamin all attended Sprucedale Public School and now Tobin and Erin’s two oldest children attend. The Schlegel Family donation will be recognized with permanent recognition on the Playground site as a Platinum Supporter.
Libro – Sharing the Pie
Libro gave our campaign a real boost in September as they made a major contribution and even brought some pretty tasty pie to share when they delivered the cheque!! Libro will be recognized with permanent recognition on the Playground site as a Platinum Supporter. There is a Libro Branch at 391 Huron Street Stratford Ontario. Libro can be contacted at 519 271-4883
Aikens Brewer Lumber
Our thanks to Jim Mayer at Aikens Brewer Lumber who was also an early supporter of our Playground Fundraising campaign. Aikens Brewer has supported us through a generous donation and by supporting the school and community through the promotion of events on its sign and the selling of tickets in the store. Aiken Brewers will be recognized with permanent recognition on the Playground site as a Gold Supporter. Aiken Brewers, a strong community supporter, has all of the materials for your building needs right here in Shakespeare.
Jay-Lyn Transport
A big thank you to everyone at Jay-Lyn Transport for supporting the Playground campaign. Their donation came in on the day of our Dance-A-thon and it really put the day over the top. Jay-Lyn Transport will be recognized as Gold Supporters and along with our Silver, Platinum and Diamond supporters will receive permanent recognition on the Playground site. Jay-Lynn Transport can be contacted at 519-320-0447.
Pioneer Hi-Bred Ltd.
A shout out to Pioneer Hi-Bred Ltd. who also gave the Playground Fund a strong boost on Dance-a-thon day with their most generous donation. Pioneer will be recognized with permanent recognition on the Playground site as a Gold Supporter. Melani Rich coordinated the donation for Pioneer and can be reached at 519-352-6350.
Memorial Donation to honour Stewart Anderson
A special thank you to Helen Anderson for her most generation donation to the Sprucedale Public School Playground Fund. The donation was made in honour of her late husband, Stewart Anderson, who was the first chairman of the Sprucedale Public School Board in 1965. Many Anderson’s have proudly attended Sprucedale Public School. Stewart and Helen’s sons Brian and Doug graduated in the 60’s. Their grandchildren Heather, Amber and Alex graduated in the 90s, and today their great grandchildren attend. Our thanks go out to Helen and her entire extended family. This memorial donation will be recognized through permanent recognition as a Gold Supporter on the playground site.
Roger and Cathy Park
A big thanks to Cathy and Roger Park for their generous donation to our playground campaign. The Parks were early contributors to the campaign and have continued to support both the school and the Playground campaign. Roger and Cathy will be recognized as Gold Supporters.
Jon Witzel Contracting Limited
Our thanks also go out to Jon Witzel of Jon Witzel Contracting Limited who has made a generous contribution to the Playground Fund to support the families he serves within the Sprucedale Community. Jon is a Silver Supporter who will also receive permanent recognition on the playground site. Jon Witzel Contracting is located at 985920 Perth Oxford Road, Tavistock N0B2R0. He can be reached by phone at 519 662-4239. He can be reached by email at [email protected] . Our thanks go out to Jon for contributing to our Playground fund.
Westlandyn Farms
Our thanks go out to the West Family for their generous donation to the Playground Fundraiser. The Wests’ were early contributors to the Playground Fundraising Campaign and will be recognized as Silver Supporters.
Schlegel Family
Our thanks also go out to Tobin and Erin Schlegel for their generous donation to the Playground Fundraiser. The Schlegel’s were early contibutors to the Playground Fundraising Campaign and will be recognized as Silver Supporters.
Your Neighbourhood Credit Union
We greatly appreciate the support of Your Neighbourhood Credit Union. The Credit Union will be recognized on the playground site as they are a Silver Supporter. Your Neighbourhood Credit Union is located at 6 Huron Road East in Shakespeare and can be reached at 519-625-8400.
Community Groups
I would be remiss if I did not mention the community groups who have and continue to support our Playground Fundraising. The Shakespeare Men’s Club, the Shakespeare Firefighters’ Association, the Opti-Mrs, the Optimists, the Shakespeare Athletic Association and the Shakespeare Presbyterian Church have all been major donors. The Community Dance that was held, the Firefighters’ Wing night, the support of the group in last year’s Spaghetti Supper have all helped us move forward and are just a few of the ways these community minded people have supported this playground campaign and the school.
Municipality of Perth East
We would like to also acknowledge and thank the Municipality of Perth East for allocating just under 23,000 dollars to this Community Playground Fund. Our thanks to Andrew McAlpine and the other members of council who advocated on behalf of Shakespeare and Community.
How to Go About Making a Donation
Playground donations can be made online at CanadaHelps http://bit.ly/SprucedalePLAY using VISA, Mastercard and American Express. You also able to mail or drop off at the school a cheque payable to the Foundation for Education – Sprucedale Playground on Memo Line. Cash donations are also welcome in the office. Any donation of 20 dollars or more will receive a charitable donation receipt. Donations of 250 dollars or more will receive print recognition and donations greater than 500 dollars will receive permanent on site recognition.
Message from After School Program
Hello Parents and Families! It’s already December! Please remember to pack warm clothing for your child, along with appropriate outdoor attire as our programs access outdoor play each afternoon. If there is any interest in our After School Program please contact Jenn Davis at 519-273-9622 or [email protected]
The Holiday Break will soon be upon us. Please contact Alenka Watson at 519-271-0480 or to enroll your children in the YMCA Christmas Break Program. Spaces are limited. Wishing all our families a safe and Happy Holiday!
Kindergarten Registration for September 2017
If you missed our Kindergarten Registration Day in November, please call the school and we can get you a registration package. Please tell any neighbours or friends that have a child who will be attending Kindergarten next September.
Grade 8 Secondary School Tours
The grade 8 tours will take place on Wednesday, December 7 at Stratford Central and Tuesday, December 20 at Stratford Northwestern. The students will travel to the high schools by bus at no cost. The Open House at Stratford Central will be on Monday, January 16, 2017 from 7 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. (snow date January 17). The Open House at Stratford Northwestern will be on Tuesday, January 24, 2017 from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. (snow date January 25)
Before and After School Survey
Families interested in Before or After School childcare programs, should complete the on-line survey no later than Friday December 9th. The survey is available on the AMDSB Website http://yourschools.ca/programs-services/kindergarten/
Should you require a paper copy, please contact the school.
We appreciate your assistance, as we determine the feasibility of offering such programs.
Junior Mixed Volleyball Tournament
Congratulations on a fun tournament for the Junior Mixed Volleyball team. Although coming up just a bit short on the scoreboard, the team showed huge gains in their volleyball skills. Their sportsmanship was admirable, as they cheered each other on enthusiastically. Mrs. Wagler is very proud of the following volleyball players – Erin, Rianna, Avery, Jack, Derek, Carly, Logan, Luke, Isabella, Kristen and Dylan.
Food and Milk Orders for January, February and March 2017
The food and milk orders forms, with payment, are due back at the school on Wednesday, December 7. On line ordering and payment is available until Friday, December 9.
Community Events
The Sprucedale School Community is invited to a Festive Christmas Open House at the Brocksden Country School Museum on Saturday, December 3rd at 2:00 – 4:00 with a carol sing, brief Christmas programme and refreshments. All are welcomed.
Help keep our roads safe this winter. Around buses and school crossings Remember…
Never Dash
Obey the Flash
You Shall not Pass!
]]>Anyone Can Learn Math
If you follow the news, you may have heard or read that in the province of Ontario, we are working very hard to improve the teaching of Mathematics. Here at Sprucedale Public School we are working together to improve our math teaching.
In this month’s newsletter I am asking for your help at home with mathematics. One of the most important parts of learning is believing that you can do something or you can learn something. When we as parents say, “I’m rotten at math”, our children hear it and internalize that message as perhaps they are not able to learn mathematics. It is my belief that everybody has a math brain. In schools, we are realizing now that different people approach mathematics in a different way and that we need to learn to understand different ways of thinking. Everybody can learn math – with good teaching, with time, and support. We honour lots of different ways to do math. That means, please do not hesitate to show your child something about math for fear of not doing in the same way the teacher does it. Let your child know that there is more than one way to solve any math problem and that ultimately it helps you understand if you think of different approaches.
The second math idea I would like you to consider is that it is really important that children learn to think flexibly with numbers. What this means is that children understand that numbers can be put together and taken apart in lots of different ways. For example, the number 22 can be thought of as:
We find people who are able to calculate well are very good at taking apart and putting numbers back together in very simple and user friendly ways. In other words, they find easy ways to do the math. For example when someone adds 29 and 15 they might think of 29 plus 14 plus one. They might first add the one to 29 to make 30 ( a easier number to work with than 29). Next they might add the 10 from the 14 to make 40 and then finally add the 4 to make 44. This is not the only way to mentally add 29 and 15. Many of you will have completely different ways.
You can help at home by being positive about mathematics, not hesitating to show your children your way of doing a question, and helping children to think of different ways to represent numbers. A ministry resource that might be helpful can be found at: www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/literacynumeracy/parentguidenumen.pdf
I would love to hear your thoughts on the best way to teach mathematics. Please drop in and chat or give me a call.
Don Rauser
Very proud principal of Sprucedale Public School
Community Dance Brings Sizable Donation for the Playground
Thank you to our community partnersJ
Thanks to the generosity and hard work of our community groups, our Community Playground Fund has grown by 4000 dollars. This donation is the result of the community dance that was held on Saturday October 15th at the pavilion. It was a very fun evening with live music by Thorn and Roses. Our thanks go out to the members of the Shakespeare Optimists, the Shakespeare Opti-Mrs., the Shakespeare Firefighters Association, the Shakespeare Athletic Association, Sprucedale Public School School Council, Shakespeare Men’s Club and the Shakespeare Presbyterian Church. We would also like to thank the band, Rose and Thorns for their donation to the Playground Fund.
Remembrance Day Assembly
On Friday November 11, 2016 we will be having a Remembrance Day Assembly to honour our veterans and teach the children about Remembrance Day. The assembly will begin at approximately 10 a.m. Parents and grandparents are welcome to join us if they are able to do so.
Madd Canada Presentation for Grades 7 and 8 students
On Friday November 18th Madd Canada will be giving a presentation to grade 7 and 8 students on the dangers of impaired driving and getting into a vehicle with an impaired driver. The presentation includes a film entitled “In the Blink of an Eye”. Given how serious the subject matter is, the film is quite graphic. We ask parents of grade 7&8 students to review the trailer ahead of time. The trailer can be viewed at madd.ca/pages/programs/youth-services/school-programs/in-the-blink-of-an-eye/
A letter will also go home to grade 7 and 8 parents. We encourage all students to attend but as always we respect parents decisions regarding participation.
Parent Teacher Interviews
We are hoping to see all of you on the evening of Thursday, November 3rd or the morning of Friday, November 4th for our Parent Teacher Interviews. Education always works best when school and home work together. Good communication is an integral part of that partnership. At any time, please do not hesitate to contact the school if we can help with learning, either academic or social. If you are unsure of your interview time, please do not hesitate to contact the school at 519 625-8722
Dance-a-Thon
On Friday November 25th the students at Sprucedale Public School are going to dance the day away for a good cause. The Sprucedale School Council in conjunction with students and staff are hosting a dance-a-thon to have some fun and raise money for the new Playground. We are thinking the theme is going to be Beach Party – watch for Pledge Sheets and more information to come home soon.
Homework Help Online for Grades 7 to 10
We often hear from parents of older students that it is more difficult to support them at home with their math homework because it becomes increasingly complex. If your child is having difficulty, the first course of action is always to ask for help from the classroom teacher. Another option for those evenings and weekends when Mr. Hernden or Mrs Knechtel are not available is to visit Homework Help online. This is a free service that all of our grade seven and eight students have been registered with. They have access to one on one math help with Ontario Teachers. It is available 24/7 at no charge. There are also lots of math resources to review any concept. More info at homeworkhelp.ilc.org . On Thursday November 3rd our intermediate students will have a presentation to learn more about homeworkhelp online. My own son is in grade ten and we have found the website helpful.
Kindergarten Registration for September 2017
Kindergarten registration for September 2017 will be held at Sprucedale during the morning of Tuesday, November 22. Children born in 2013 are eligible for Junior Kindergarten during the 2017/2018 school year and children born in 2012 are eligible for Senior Kindergarten during the 2017/2018 school year. Registration packages are in the office. Please phone the school or drop into the office to register for an appointment and receive your package.
Scholastic Book Fair
The book fair is running this week in the library. It will be open Wednesday, November 2 at morning recess, Thursday, November 3 at both recesses and between 4:30 and 6:30 during parent/teacher interviews and Friday November 4 from 9:00 to 11:00 during parent/teacher interviews. Proceeds from the book fair help to buy books for our library.
Shakespeare Men’s Club Scares Away Hunger Supports Sprucedale Student Nutrition Program
The Shakespeare Men’s Club held their 6th annual Halloween Food Drive at their “Haunted Tour”. The Men’s Club accepted food donations to support the school’s Student Nutrition Program. Thanks to Barry Nowack and all of the members of the club for their continued support.
Me to We Food Drive Results
This year Me to We wanted to collect 500 non-perishable food items. We greatly surpassed that goal and collected 750 non-perishable food items. We would like to thank the parents/guardians who bought and sent in the food for us to reach our goal. The food that we have collected will be going to local food banks. We’ve collected enough food to feed 375 families. Mrs. Reinecker’s class ended up collecting the most food with 166 cans, beating Mrs. Yantzi’s class by 15 cans. Good job Sprucedale. Let’s try to get 1,000 cans next year.
By Makena and Lauryn
]]>After our first month back at school, I am happy to report to you that our children and staff are settled and we have had an excellent month. As much as we all love summer, routines and structure are good for young and old. One of the things that I most love about working in schools is the adaptability and flexibility of young people. Those new, and old, to our school are playing, learning and laughing together as though they have been together for years. We still have work to do to make sure everyone feels fully and completely a part of our school community, but we are off to a good start. At 203 students, our population is small enough that we can get to know everybody (or at least we sure are trying!) but big enough that all children find someone who has similar interests to kindle a friendship.
On the academic side, our EQAO results have been released. In Primary, we saw gains in reading (60% of our students are@ Level 3 or 4), writing (85% of our students are @ Level 3 or 4), and mathematics (55% of our students at Level 3 or 4). In junior, we saw gains in writing (80% of our students @ Level 3 or 4). The number of students reaching the provincial standard dropped very slightly in junior reading (from 74 to 71% at Level 3 or 4). In Junior Mathematics – the sum of math work from Kindergarten to grade six – twenty-nine percent of our students were at standard. The EQAO assessment is one means of seeing what students know. Classroom teachers do many assessments over the course of a year in order to develop a thorough picture of what students do and do not know. The EQAO assessments are also an excellent way for us as teaching staff to figure out what areas we need to focus on in terms of improvement. In 2016/2017 Sprucedale Public School will be focusing on professional learning on improving instruction in mathematics.
Individual EQAO results will be coming home this week.
I encourage you to call, drop in, email me at any time if you have any questions, concerns or comments. If you wish to meet with your child’s teacher, it is better to make an appointment, simply because they have the responsibility for a full class of students each and every day.
Looking forward to a great year of learning,
Don
Proud Principal of Sprucedale Public School
School Council Report:
Here we are, the beginning of October, the start of fall and one month of the school year behind us already! I hope you and your family have been able to enjoy some of the beautiful weather we have had over the past few weeks!
Our fall fundraising packages went home last week. We are once again offering beautiful poinsettias from Warren Greenhouses, QSP, and fruits and veggies as part of the fresh from the farm initiative. The fresh from the farm orders must be returned to the school no later than Oct 12 in order to meet the program deadline for placing our school order.
We plan to run a winter fundraiser this year – Elmira Poultry – to raise some more funds for the purchase of our new playground. Watch for that in the January / February timeframe.
The old playground has been removed. We plan to have a new playground installed for the start of the 2017/8 school year. Fundraising is going well, we have raised $40,000 of our $100,000 goal. This is great but still a long way to go. Come out and support the Shakespeare community groups who are putting on a town dance on October 15 (with the band Thorn and Roses) at the pavilion (or hall if mother nature does not cooperate). Proceeds are going towards the purchase of the new playground!
Everyone is invited to come out to one or all of our meetings. School council is an excellent way to be involved in the school community, meet other Sprucedale parents, and to know about what and why things are happening at Sprucedale. Our meetings will be held the second Wednesday of each month unless indicated otherwise in the newsletter or via email. Our next meeting will be Wednesday, October 12th at 7:00 in the school library. Mark your calendar!
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at .
Happy Thanksgiving!
Heather Johnston
School Council Chair
Shakespeare Community Fundraiser for Playground
Dance & Light Meal
Saturday October 15th – 8 p.m. until 1 a.m.
Live Music by Thorn and Roses
Age of Majority
Generously brought to you by: Shakespeare Optimist , Shakespeare Opti-Mrs., Shakespeare Firefighters Association, Shakespeare Community Athletic Association, Sprucedale Public School School Council, Shakespeare Men’s Club
Tickets available at Sprucedale Public School or at Aitkens Brewer Lumber.
Playground at Sprucedale PS.
Our playground for children five and older has now been removed because it no longer met current safety standards. It was about 19 years old. School Council, students, staff and our fabulous community supporters have been busy raising funds to install a new playground. We have already raised 40,000.
I have been asked how people can contribute to the Playground Fund. Playground donations can be made online at CanadaHelps http://bit.ly/SprucedalePLAY using VISA, Mastercard and American Express. You are also able to mail or drop off at the school a cheque payable to the Foundation for Education – Sprucedale Playground on Memo Line. Cash donations are also welcome in the office. Any donation of 20 dollars or more will receive a charitable donation receipt. Donations of 250 or more will receive print recognition and donations greater than 500 dollars will receive permanent on site recognition. You can also support the Playground fund by coming and kicking up your heels at the town dance on October 15th (with the band Thorn and Roses) at the pavillion (or hall if mother nature does not cooperate). This dance is for adults only. We may have a student event at which the children will be able to show their dance moves coming up soon. All proceeds are going to the Playground Fund.
Kindergarten Registration for September 2017:
Sprucedale’s Kindergarten Registration date is Tuesday, November 22.
Me To We Food Drive:
The Me to We group will be conducting a food drive from Wednesday, October 5th until Wednesday, November 2nd to support local food banks. Our goal is 500 non-perishable food items. Please consider supporting this worthwhile cause.
Halloween Food Drive:
The Shakespeare Men’s Club 6th Annual Halloween Food Drive will be held on Monday, October 31st, 2016. Take the “haunted tour” for plenty of tricks & treats, fun for all ages. Please bring a non-perishable food donation. This year we will be donating specific items to the Student Nutrition Program at Sprucedale P.S. These items include: low sugar granola bars, fruit cups, apple sauce, whole grain crackers, rice crackers, rice cakes, and any other healthy snack items for children. Other non-perishable food donations will be donated to the Tavistock Assistance Program (T.A.P) as well as the Stratford House of Blessing. The event will take place on 2204 Thompson Street, from 6pm until 10:30pm (regardless of the weather.) For more information or to donate, please contact Barry at 519-276-9849 or email[email protected]
Nothing Better Than Sand:
Thank you to the Johnston Family for filling up our sandboxes with fresh sand in August. The Johnston family had extra sand from a project and as a family personally filled our sand boxes. Our little ones have had a great time digging, burying and filling shoes and socks with sand.
Before and After School Survey:
“As part of an on-going commitment to make the school day as seamless as possible for our families, each family will be receiving an information sheet in mid-October regarding Before and After School care. Families interested in before or after school programs for their four and five year olds, and possibly older children in the upcoming school year, should complete an on-line survey by November 30, 2016. The link to the survey will be found on the Board website starting mid-October. We appreciate your assistance as we determine the feasibility of offering such programs. Should you require a paper copy, please contact the school after October 14th.”
Key Bible Club:
will be starting Tuesday, November 1st during the first nutrition break.
At Key Bible Clubs we share Biblical values that we believe will help give children a solid foundation for making wise choices that will last a lifetime.
It’s geared for children from grades 1 to 6. Each family must fill out a permission form granting approval for their child/children to participate. Forms will be available at the school office. Please return completed forms to the office prior to the first week of Key Bible.
Looking forward to seeing many old and new faces for a fun year of singing, bible stories and games.
For more detailed information please contact Bernice Wijnands at (519) 393-8129
Professional Activity Days
Friday, September 23, 2016
Friday, November 4, 2016
Friday, December 2, 2016
Thursday, February 2, 2017
Monday, May 8, 2017
Friday, June 9, 2017
Friday, June 30, 2017
]]>Welcome back to another school year. We extend an extra special welcome to all the children and families joining us for the first time either in junior kindergarten or in an older grade as families relocate.
Mr. Near has been diligently cleaning and the school is spotless. We are very fortunate to have such an amazing custodian who takes great pride in keeping our building sparkling. Our teachers have also been very busy over the summer preparing lessons and classrooms so that we can welcome our students back to Sprucedale Public School. Many of our staff members have also been busy as students this summer, attending workshops, reading professional materials, and taking courses to refine their teaching practice.
I consider myself extremely fortunate to work at Sprucedale Public School with an amazing group of educators, students and very supportive families. Children learn best when school and home work together. Supporting children at school can be as simple as taking an interest in what is happening at school and by reading with them daily (doesn’t have to be long – but regularly). If at any time, your child is having difficulty learning, please let us know so we can offer more assistance.
I encourage you to catch me out on the yard before or after school, give me a call, shoot me an email or drop by my office if I can help with any matter. Never hesitate to give us a call or make an appointment to talk in person to your child’s teacher so that we can work together to make 2016/2017 the best year possible for your child(ren).
I would also encourage you to consider getting involved in Sprucedale Public School either on School Council or as a volunteer. Please give me call, send a note with your child or drop in if you are able to help out in any way. Please note my school email is now [email protected] Looking forward to working with you and your children to make this a great year of learning and growing!
Don Rauser
Welcome!!!
We are very pleased to welcome Ms. Eicher to our teaching staff. Ms. Eicher will be teaching grade 5/6 this year while Ms. Maddock is off on maternity leave. We would also like to welcome Mr. Stevenson back to the teaching staff. Mr. Stevenson will be teaching French and will also be teaching in our grade 2/3 class for a quarter of the day. In addition, we are thrilled to have Ms. Wilker and Ms. Deweerd , a pair of highly qualified Educational Assistants who will be supporting students in our primary wing. Mrs. Christian is welcomed as well as our Technical Resource staff.
Meet the Teacher – Tuesday September 20th – 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
We hope everyone is able to come on Tuesday September 20th to meet their children’s teachers and visit classrooms. We will also have School Board Staff on hand who will be able to help you register for School Cash Online – a secure and easy way to pay for things at school. Looking forward to seeing you on the 20th!!
Libro Boosts Playground Fund – Shared the Pie!!!
A huge thank you to Libro Credit Union as they have made a very generous five thousand dollar donation to our Sprucedale Public School Playground Fund. On Thursday September 1st members of the credit union came and presented students and School Council members with a very large cheque. Libro was also kind and brought the groups some most delectable pies to share as we celebrated the donation. Our playground fundraising has become even more urgent as students will no longer be permitted to use the main play structure. The play structure is likely to be removed early this fall.
Sabrina’s Law
The following is a quotation from Sabrina’s Law. “Employees of a board may be preauthorized to administer medication or supervise a pupil while the pupil takes medication, in response to an anaphylactic reaction, if the school has up-to-date treatment information and the consent of the parent, guardian or pupil. If an employee has reason to believe that a pupil is experiencing an anaphylactic reaction, the employee may administer an epinephrine auto-injector or other medication that is prescribed, even if there is no preauthorization to do so. The Bill provides that no actions for damages shall be instituted respecting any act done in good faith or for any neglect or default in good faith in response to an anaphylactic reaction, unless the damages are the result of an employee’s gross negligence. The Bill preserves common law duties.”
Ryan’s Law – supporting the well-being of students with asthma
As you may be aware, Ryan’s Law, 2015, was recently passed by the Ontario Legislature. This piece of legislation is an important step to support the well-being of students with asthma in Ontario schools. If your child has asthma, we ask that you immediately contact the main office at your school to provide information about your child’s asthma medication. With your permission, your child will be allowed to carry his/her asthma medication while at school. The Ministry of Education website has resources on asthma that can be found at: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/healthyschools/anaphylaxis.html As a best practice and to support your child, please let the school know if your child has a medical condition so that the school is aware and can keep this information on file. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me directly.
Sincerely,
Don Rauser
Kids Plus Accident Insurance
Our school board is offering you the opportunity to voluntarily purchase student accident insurance through the Kids Plus™ Accident Insurance program, underwritten by Industrial Alliance Insurance and Financial Services Inc.
Kids Plus™ Accident Insurance provides protection against unexpected costs arising from accidental injuries. The program is especially valuable for families who:
Kids Plus™ Accident Insurance has a selection of plans to suit most budgets. Benefits include coverage for:
If your address changes during the school year, your Kids Plus™ Accident Insurance plan is transferable from school to school, anywhere in Canada. Insurance premiums for children are $14.50 or $33.50 per year, depending on the plan selected. A discount is available for families with 3 or more children. Adults age 20 to 64 can also be insured for $32.00 per year.
For more information or to apply online, please visit kidsplus.ca, or speak with a Kids Plus™ Client Service Administrator at 1-800-556-7411.
School Cash Online
Brochures and how to register cards will come home the first week of school. This will be the preferred method of payment for food, milk, class trips, etc.
Register for School Cash Online today! All families who purchase an item online between August 29th and October 15th will be entered to win one of two iPad Minis. **
** Families will receive a maximum of one entry for each child for whom an item is purchased.
Volunteer Needed
Sprucedale is in need of a parent volunteer to purchase snack items on a regular basis for the Student Nutrition Program. The volunteer would purchase food items (fruit, vegetables, breakfast bars, crackers, etc.) every week or two for students who require extra food during the day. Receipts would be handed in to the office and you would be reimbursed by a school cheque. Please call the school office if you are willing to help out.
Newsletters
Newsletters will be sent home from the office each month and posted on our school website. We find that the most effective way to get these home to you is via email. We strongly urge you to use this option. We will not share your email address. As an added bonus, this allows us to share information that comes up during the day. If we ever have an emergency at the school and had to close or go to an alternate location, I can effectively contact all parents quickly. As an added bonus, I will continue to send out emails on snow days as well!
When you update the Emergency Contact information sheet (being sent home first day of school), there is an opportunity for you to provide your email address(es). Unless you indicate otherwise, we will use this to send newsletters electronically. If you do not indicate an email address, we will send paper copies home with your youngest child.
Please be sure to keep your email address current. If it changes during the year and we send newsletters out to “lapsed” addresses then other people with the same providers sometimes don’t get theirs as we get blocked as spam.
We start fresh each year and rebuild our mailing list so you must provide us with an up to date email address to ensure you receive our emails.
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