Dana Gillilan

Week of May 25, 2009

I hope all of you have a wonderful and safe summer with your family and friends!   I look forward to seeing you in August!

Week of May 11 - 15, 2009

Fifth grade students had the opportunity to practice opening combination locks this week, in preparation for using their middle school lockers.  Students also reviewed previous lessons on respect and friendship.

Week of May 4, 2009

Second grade students are learning about ways to show gratitude and appreciation for kind words or actions shown by others.  During the lesson, students will have an opportunity to write a thank you note for their teacher, showing appreciation for all that they have learned in second grade.

Week of April 13 - 17, 2009

In preparation for the CRCT, fifth graders discussed some ideas to beat "test stress."  Students also participated in a BINGO game called "THINK", in which they reviewed some test-taking strategies. 

Students, please remember to get plenty of rest, eat healthy breakfasts, and arrive at school on time with positive attitudes, especially during next week's CRCT!

Week of April 6 - 10, 2009

I hope that everyone has a great Spring Break and enjoys time with family and friends!

Week of March 30 - April 3, 2009

This week, second grade students are reviewing listening skills and test taking strategies that may be useful, especially during the upcoming CRCT.    During the lesson, students have the opportunity to participate in a game called TRY BINGO.

Week of March 23 - 27, 2009

Fifth grade students have an opportunity to write their first resume' during our classroom guidance lessons this week.    Students are discussing ways in which school is similar to a job and how school prepares them for a career.     During the lesson, they have a chance to brainstorm positive character traits, activities, current jobs and responsibilities, strengths, etc. that are helping to prepare them for future jobs.

Week of March 16 - 20, 2009

Second grade students learned characteristics of good listening skills.  Students listened to a fun story called, "My Mouth is a Volcano" by Julia Cook, and played a game called Thumb Ball.  The story and the activity gave students an opportunity to discuss and practice effective listening skills, at school and with their friends.

Week of March 9 - 13, 2009

This week during fifth grade classroom guidance lessons, students reviewed the four step decision making process and worked in small groups to problem solve specific situations.   Students then had an opportunity to share ideas that were discussed in their teams with the class.

Week of March 2 - 6, 2009

Second grade students discussed the qualities of a good friend.  Students talked about ways to be a good friend, and the importance of showing respect and kindness towards others.