No Lexia on the Blog :(

I have tried to add Lexia into the Links section of the blog, but have recently found out that I will not be able to add it.  Lexia is a "closed-link" program and cannot be accessed from another server without downloading and signing up for access to the program.  I was hoping to have it under the blog to make it easier for students to sign in and use this program, but it appears you will have to download the program to your computer and use the sign-in code to register at home for the program.  Since the school purchased the licence for Lexia and your children already have a login code and password, there is not additional cost or concerns regarding using this program at home.  I know many of the students have been waiting to get on and use it, and now that we have had our computers updated at school, I can give all of you the information needed to start using it at home.  I will be sending the startup sheet with your child on Friday, so that you can begin using Lexia at home over the holidays if you choose.  For those who want to start now, you can login at:  http://www.lexialearning.com/products/mylexia/faqs/school_to_home.html

You will be redirected to another document that walks you through the process of checking your computer for compatibility, downloading and installing the server, then setting up the link for your child to use.

Our schools customer code will be given to you with the handout (I don't want to put it on the blog where anyone can access it), and your child's username and password will also be given at this time. 

Please remember that your child is NOT to receive any help when they are logged on to Lexia.  It is a learning based program, that progresses based upon the success or struggles of your child.  It will not be useful if other people are helping them through the program.  A good block of time if important to allow your child enough time to use the program (I suggest 15-20 minutes each session).  But make it work for your child.  I hope this information is helpful, and that this program finds itself useful and a welcomed addition to your child's academic efforts at home.

Happy Holidays to all and be safe over the long vacation!!
-Mr. Linnet

Our Kids are SUPERHEROES!!!

Did you see their masks?  Some were animals, some were ninjas, all were AWESOME!!  We read a book in class last week with the 1st Graders about different kinds of masks.  We learned that masks are made in all cultures around the world.  Some groups of people have been making masks for thousands of years.  Some are used to tell stories, some are used as symbols of strength or achievement, all are really cool!!  We decided after reading about masks, that what better way to truly understand the mystique and creativity of a mask, then to make one ourselves.  So last week we cut and decorated our mask, let them dry over the weekend, then finished them in class today.  The results were astonishing.  Everyone made their mask unique and special.  Some were small and elegant, others were large and gaudy.  Some had interesting points leading off in different directions, others were designed to resemble animals found in nature.  If you haven't seen your child's mask, ask to see it, they were really fun to make and definitely drove home the importance masks can have on a culture of people (I especially liked hearing the students talk so kindly with one another about the masks!!).  Great Job EVERYBODY!!!
-Mr. Linnet

Check out the Elephant Art!

We had a great time last Friday making our Elephant Art.  After reading the story "Elephants can Paint, Too!", we decided that we should give it a try and see just how difficult it would be to paint with a trunk.  So we strapped tube socks to our arms and tried to paint using our newly formed trunks.  Turns out that it is actually pretty difficult balancing a paintbrush without hands and fingers.  Those Asian Elephants are pretty talented!!  Thanks to all the parents who came and helped out, we had a lot of fun and walked away with a greater appreciation for the amazing work these elephants are able to produce!!