A day of thanks . . .

Thanksgiving is coming up next week, what do you have to be thankful for? This has been a very difficult time in our country but I believe we have much to be thankful for. We all have jobs and a pretty good place to work (well . . . maybe the boss could be easier to work for - I'm referring to me:) Most of you are in good health and are blessed with wonderful families. Reflect on the positives . . . life is definitely too short to not enjoy what you do have. Think about the pictures of the children in Africa when you start having a pity party for yourself - definitely helps me!

The book fair was a big hit this week. Thanks for Mr. Schoulda, Mrs. Argabright, and all the parent volunteers for their help. Students seemed excited about getting new books to read. To all the LA teachers - thanks for giving up some class time to let the students purchase new reading material!

Tiger Kim's Tae Kwon Do put on a performance Tuesday to the 6th grade PE classes. Thanks to all the PE teachers (Denise Francis, Martin Patrick, JR Wilkerson, and Amy Peverall) for helping to organize this event. Also, Kim Pickell was a major contributer to making this event happen. They will be coming again next Tuesday (5th and 6th periods) if you would like a taste of some Tae Kwon Do - they are amazing!!

Students from 6th grade (Barbara Strange, Cynthia Booth, Debbie Etheridge, and Mike McDowell) went to make luminaries for the Ronald McDonald House on Wednesday - community service project. Kathy MacDonald also took about 40 students (student council)after school to make the luminaries on Wednesday. Students had a great time and this was a good educational experience about doing things for others.

The cultural infusion walk throughs were conducted Wednesday by Willette Nash. She had extremely positive comments about the imagery and inclusive classroom decor in Mr. Charles Jones' class. His lesson was about African Kings.  Notably, she gave high praise to Mrs. Kirby Carespodi who used rubrics, small groups, students were enthusiastic about learning and were responsible for their own learning. She commented on the utilization of Myers Briggs in her classroom as well. Mrs. Humphrey... excellent lesson involving American History relative to slave trade. Well done!

Today, we had about 300 students qualify (from their magazine fundraising efforts) to watch the BMX bike show. These guys were flying everywhere. It looked like they would go through the roof!! Elaine Hartle is the best - I'm glad you couldn't tell how close they were to you. The kids were absolutely amazed at this show. Mrs. Strange/Ms. Miller - I know you two are bikers. Could you do this?!!

Another great week at TJMS. Short week next week then a nice break. Be thankful for what you do have. Take some time to think about your blessings and "smell the roses".

You have worked hard. Thanks for your best efforts with your students. Enjoy the weekend.

Go Patriots!!