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We are delighted to welcome John Trent and his family to St. Francis School!
Last week, our teachers enjoyed a workshop that focused on attachment (relationships) and why they are important. Dr. Otto Kaak, professor of Psychiatry, Pediatrics, and Social Work, at the University of Kentucky, led us through a very informative discussion on the importance of a secure attachment for young children. He gave us practical ideas for support of children in the classroom. In short, the most important concepts that we took away from the training were giving children the time they need and taking the time to listen to them; supporting positive relationships with children and families; and early intervention strategies for children that need additional support.
We have several events coming up that are very exciting for the Preschool. On Wednesday, November 13 at 9:15 a.m., Kelli Schmidt (Liam's mom) will host a Preschool/JK/Kindergarten Parent Coffee at the Goshen Campus. Join us as we take a tour of our new space, and see the drawings of our natural playground, and renderings from the architect for our new space. This is a sneak peek for current parents only.
On Tuesday, November 19 at 9:00 a.m., we will host an Open House for prospective families at the Goshen Campus. All families interested in information about Preschool - 8th grade are encouraged to attend. We welcome your good word about our school to your neighbors and friends. Please invite them to the Open House. As we all know, "word of mouth" is the best advertisement. Thank you for your continuous support of our program.
The Parent Association has been busy preparing for the upcoming holiday season. Monday kicked off their 13th annual Coat Drive for the Wayside Christian Mission. A box has been delivered to the foyer for the collection; please send in any gently used coats for this worthy cause. Don't worry about cleaning them, Highland Cleaners has donated their services.
Room parents will be contacting you soon about our annual Thanksgiving Potluck Luncheon. Each family brings a side dish to share with the class; the Preschool will provide the turkey and gravy. Chef Matt from our Goshen Campus will be preparing the turkey again this year (it was delicious last year). The Ladybugs will have their luncheon on Thursday, November 21 at 11:00 a.m. All other classes will have their luncheons on Friday, November 22 at 11:00 a.m.
As Alexandra Thurstone, Head of School, mentioned in her article in this month's Thoughts newsletter earlier this week, Karen Hopkins and I will be attending the NAEYC national conference in Washington, D.C. later this month. We are looking forward to hearing about the latest research and information relating to early childhood. Look for a follow up to the conference here in December.
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