As the ABC Countdown begins this Thursday which counts down the final 26 days of the 2016-2017 school year, remember to look to the end of the year as setting the stage for next year. A strong finish helps build for a successful year to come. To ensure a strong finish and a positive launch to the next school year, keep the following in mind:

*Have high expectations for all. The end of the school year is not only about celebrations. It’s about learning. Focus on what is important and find the balance between keeping learning at the forefront of your classroom and enjoying those “end of the year” celebrations.

*Be well planned. Act with intention and purpose each day. Students thrive on routine and consistency. Just because the weather is getting warmer and field trips are blooming, the last thing you want to do is lose focus. It’s important to ensure that the learning process continues to bloom and that students are engaged!

*Keep a positive and hopeful attitude. This time of the year can be emotional and exhausting for all. Remember to find the good stuff. It’s there if you take time to look for it.

Here’s our week at a glance:

Monday, April 17th
Welcome Back! I hope you all enjoyed this beautiful weekend!

Tuesday, April 18th
3rd Grade Field Trip to Field Museum

Wednesday, April 19th
1/2 Day – SIP Agenda Coming Soon
Happy Birthday Chris Gonzalez 🙂
Board of Education Meeting @ 7:00pm
(Congrats to Heather Longo, Alanna Mixter & Britney Jeskey – we will be recommending these stellar educators for tenure)

Thursday, April 20th
ABC Countdown Begins!  – Animal Day
SLT Meeting @ 3:00pm
BPAC Meeting @ 4:00pm (Kennedy School

Friday, April 21st
5 Positive Connections by Friday! 🙂
Bubble Day

I challenge each of you to look at the number of days remaining this school year as the number of days you have to MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

 Instead of saying you have ____ days left of school until summer break, think of it as:

____ days together to make lasting memories
____days left to share this adventure
____days left for us to grow together

Each and every day our students need us. Remember that you may be the only constant presence in some of your students’ lives. Make a choice each day for your presence to be a positive, constant factor. It’s a great opportunity that we have to come to school and have an impact on students’ lives from day to day.