Friday, May 15, 2015

Dear Parents,

This trimester, grade one teachers are prototyping a service-learning project while integrating academic standards from two content areas, science and literacy. First grade decided to support the Tree Foundation, and in particular, their work in conserving and protecting the highly endangered Olive Ridley turtles.

This week Nithya Raja, (grade 11) visited first grade to share her knowledge of the four species of sea turtles that are found in India. As a fifth grader at AISC, Nithya visited the TREE Foundation and learned about their efforts to rehabilitate and protect turtles in Chennai. She continues to volunteer and spread the word about these animals. The first graders loved seeing a model of how large the leatherback turtle can be, and learned more about what they can do to help turtles. Thank you, Nithya!

Helping Nepal

Our generous and caring school community came together with a final donation of Rs. 31, 300 that will be given to the Lincoln School Fund supporting Nepal.  Total tickets for the Quilt raffle sold across the week were 313.  This is a wonderful add on to last week's bake sale led by Betsy Elad. Ora Levy Ben Cheton ended up having the winning ticket.

Thank you so much to Margaret Rajan who made the quilt and organized this event. I also wish to recognize Gina, JoAnn, and Shanti for selling tickets everyday!  Parents Sara, Gina, and Lucy also donated second draw prizes to award, which was very kind!

We hope this small amount stretches far and wide to begin to rebuild a normal life for the people in Nepal.

Grades 3 & 4 Optional BYOT

Bring-Your-Own-Technology is optional for students in grades 3 and 4.  As with this year, we strongly encourage students to bring a personal technology device with them to promote a connection to learning with technology both inside and outside the classroom. AISC provides technology support and digital citizenship learning support for your child on his or her device. Another benefit is that students can complete projects and access apps at home that they are working on in class.  

Though AISC provides some technology in the classroom, this shared technology will remain in the class.  Our experience has shown that personalized technology promotes greater ownership, creativity, and overall productivity.  

To learn more about this program, please plan to attend an informational meeting on Tuesday, May 26th from 9:45 - 10:45 in the MS CIC (Library) Meeting Area next to the IT office. This meeting is for current and returning grade 2 and 3 parents.  If you cannot attend this session, we will repeat this meeting on Wednesday, May 27th from 3:45 - 4:45 in the MS CIC (Library) Meeting Area.

End of School Year Notice

As we are approaching the end of the school year, there are a few things parents need to keep in mind. Students will need to return all textbooks, library books, musical instruments and any other items issued by the school. All payables, such as lunch fees, must be cleared before we can release report cards. Report cards will be available in Skyward on June 5th. 

For students who are leaving AISC, report cards and school leaving documents will be given to parents on June 5th at the Admissions Office. Please inform the elementary office if your child is not returning for the next school year.

ASA - FUNSHINE CAMP 2015

Summer camp registrations are in full swing. Those who are yet to register, kindly do so at the earliest.

Please see details of the Camp below:

• Grade level: Pre-K - 5
• Camp Dates: June 8 - 19 (Monday – Friday)  
• Camp Timing: 9.00 am – 1.00 pm                                                                
• Activities designed for the Camp: Theatre / Dance / Swimming pool games / Origami / Painting / Cooking / Story-telling / Art & Craft / Reading / Indoor & Outdoor Sports
• Fees: Rs. 18000

You may register at the ASA office (MC-1B) any time from 8.30 am - 3.00 pm. We are extending registrations up to May 20, 2015.
*Limited seats only.

Have a great weekend,

Kevin Hall
Elementary School Principal