Wednesday 27 November 2013

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Mission:  The mission of Immanuel Christian School is to prepare students to meet the challenge of the world and culture they live in as young and growing Christians.  Thus, students are taught the skill of discernment in the light of God’s Word, the practice of stewardship for creation, the required commitment to a life of Christian service, and the beauty of witness through modeling God’s love in a broken world.

School’s email address:  immanuel@amtelecom.net
Principal’s email address:  icsprincipal@amtelecom.net
ICS Website:  www.immanuelchristianschool.net    519-773-8476
Check us out on Facebook:   facebook.com/ICSAylmer     
         Twitter:  twitter.com/ICSAylmer
LDCSS Website:  www.ldcss.on.ca   519-455-4360
Christian Education Foundation (endowment fund): www.ldcef.org

Upcoming Events

Nov. 28  Fall Membership Meeting at LDCSS
          30  Aylmer Christmas Parade 2 p.m.
Dec.     2-18  Food collection for the Corner Cupboard
            4   8:55 Chapel
            7   Springfield Christmas Parade 1 p.m.
          11   8:55 Chapel; Hot Lunch; Spirit Day; Board meets
          17   Joy Notes for Christmas afternoon matinee 1:30
          18   8:55 Chapel; Joy Notes for Christmas 7:30
          19   AR goal @ 50%?;  1:30 Students carolling in town
                 LDCSS Christmas Concert 7:30
SAVE THE DATE: Friday, January 24, 2014 for the ever popular ICS GST Auction!       

From the Principals’ Desk:

Well, the snow came early! Only last week, I reassured our custodians, Mrs Bergen and Mrs Friesen that they could easily wait until early December for the grade 5/6 science class to present recommendations regarding ice and snow removal! While the science class recommendations may come slightly after the first snowfall, God reminds us in so many ways that He holds our futures in His hands. Our task as a Christian school is to continually retell that Biblical story (of which we are participants) to our students.

I'm taking an online Masters-level curriculum course with the Institute of Christian Studies in Toronto. I formally become a student on Tuesdays (my day "off"), and I often find my readings influencing the Principal's Desk. This week's readings coupled contemporary work in education (Understanding by Design) with a 40 year old convention address to Christian teachers. We acknowledge the role of teaching as uncovering (not "covering the curriculum") and interrelating the meaning of things. But Christian schooling is neither functional training (though we try to build real skills) nor "armchair" thinking (though we cultivate reflection). Rather, our aim is training and equipping for every good work (2 Ti 3:17). The emphasis is on right action and character. For that, God's presence is needed, and should be prayed for. Intriguingly, the author relates teaching to prophecy, to interpreting the world. Ever thought of your child's teacher as a prophet?

in Christian education, Keith Cameron, Principal


CEAF 2013 Tax Receipts: You may have received these in the mail recently, and be hesitant about claiming them. OACS contacted Revenue Canada and asked the question. Their response: "Non-parents who made a donation in January 2013 to CEAF will have a legitimate tax receipt and should expect CRA to honour it as charitable gift.  Parents who made a donation to CEAF in January 2013 through the School  Support Program will also have that charitable receipt honoured by CRA provided that the school does not use the January 2013 CEAF grants in their cost per pupil calculations (ICS does not use the grants in our cost per pupil calculations for the 2012 and 2013 years). Due to the small size of the amount of donations CEAF received in 2013 and the large number of donors involved in making those donations, CRA has apparently decided not to pursue a challenge to them provided the schools are not using CEAF grants in their cost per pupil calculations." The same does not apply to the 2012 tax year, sadly.

Promotions: Every parent is a potential school advertiser! In conversation, in email, on Facebook, talk up the gift that we have in ICS! Ms Wall, our ECE candidate, found out about ICS using Google and Facebook, and liked what she saw - our electronic promotions worked in her case!

Praying for our Families:  Last week Thursday morning we prayed for Ray Kaastra, Lois Hardman and Darrell & Helen Klassen.
Praying for our Staff:  This week we will remember Ms. Pieters in prayer.

 Reminders:  Christmas Meat & Baked Goods pick up is on Thursday, Dec. 12th, 2:30 – 4 p.m.  Coolers with names are welcome!

Well this is it, the Christmas Parade is this Saturday! Promotions committee would like to thank all those who graciously lent us their ethnic costumes for the school’s float. We are now just looking for students in grades 5, 6, 7 and 8 to ride in the Aylmer and Springfield parades.  We ask that you meet us at the Aylmer Fair Grounds at 1:30 Saturday afternoon.  We will end the parade back at the school for hot chocolate. Please complete the permission slip below and we hope to see you there!

This year we will be presenting a musical evening for our Christmas program. “Joy Notes for Christmas" is an evening where your child(ren) can showcase the talents and abilities God gave them. Please encourage your child(ren) to sign up on the bulletin board if they wish to participate!  We will have individual, class, choir and band participation.  Please mark Tuesday, Dec. 17 at 1:30 for an afternoon matinee and Wednesday, December 18th for an evening performance on your calendar.

Left over dishes from Grandparents’ Day.  A pan and 2 plates.  A dark red with lime green, and a clear plastic plate.

Baked Goods:  A HUGE thank-you to all families who donated baked goods for the Sweets, Treats and Treasures Sale.  The sale raises funds for the Ladies Auxiliary, which funds many of our school special events (theatre trips, for example)!
By golly, THANK YOU to all who braved the Friday Family Fun Night Redneck Roadkill Café!  The 'coon kabobs', 'frog legs' and 'squirrel brains' were a hit for over 125 people, and brought in $1115!  A huge holler out to the wonderful rednecks who set up, served, delivered, collected money and cleaned up!  It was one of the most talked about dinners yet :-)  The next Friday Family Fun Night will be on February 14th - and will have a lot of romance in the air... save the date, find a date.

Electives: Education Committee is lining up some very interesting electives for grades 4-8 in Jan & Feb. They may include badminton, puppetry, archery, woodworking, model building, photography, personal grooming, stop-animation, winter survival, small engines, baking / cake decorating, etc. Once again, we would plan on our grade 3s completing the Red Cross Swim to Survive program. Committee members will be making calls to possible adult volunteer leaders. If you would like to run an elective (for the first time, or once again), please call the school to let us know! We are looking for name ideas for the model-building elective - anyone know an avid model-maker who connects well with children?  Also looking for a baker!

Building and Maintenance:  Competitive quotes are sought for the replacement of the remaining asphalt roof on the school with steel roofing. The committee recommends completing the project in Spring 2014 on the entire South Wing and the north side of the North Wing. Contractors within or known to our community are encouraged to put in an estimate by 30 November, for selection by the committee. Estimates should be submitted to the office

Our Service Projects for this Christmas Season:               
Food Drive for the Corner Cupboard:  Monday December 2nd is the start of the collection of non-perishable food under the decorated Christmas tree in the front hall.  These items will be picked up by the Corner Cupboard and will be distributed to needy families at Christmas time.  So please help us by picking up a few extra items with your weekly groceries and send them to school with your child(ren). 
Hat/Mittens/Socks for the Optimist Club:  We will try to bless the less fortunate in our community by collecting new hats, mittens, or socks to put under the tree. The Optimist Club works together with the Corner Cupboard and both appreciate our school being involved in this project as well. Thank you!

Basketball:  Sr. boys’ basketball next tryout is Friday at Lunch recess.  Practice times will be announced once team is selected.

All families are invited to the Direction for Families Conference hosted by Shayne Wyler and Seven Clarity. This conference is for anyone 13 years old and up and will teach those who participate to lead the other family members how to deepen their relationships, be on mission together and steward resources wisely.   There are provisions provided for nursing mothers and their babies, so that husbands and wives are able to attend together.  Light refreshments will be served through out the day, but lunch will need to be brought or sought off-site. Shayne and Seven Clarity are known to us through contacts with the SALT homeschool group which meets in Springfield. We share many common aims as we pursue Christian education in different manners. 
We here at Seven note the need for families to come together and be strengthened in growing, Christ-centred relationships. As families are being torn a part, we have responded to provide simple and life changing tools, centred in Christ, with this one day conference.  This conference includes a workbook for all who participate and printed and online follow up materials to ensure our families have what they need as they return to their homes, churches, work and other places where they serve in Christ. I invite you to visit our site at www.sevenclarity.com/family.html to find out more about our next conference happening: Saturday, December 7, 2013, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm at Eastwood Fellowship Baptist, 400 Wellington St., St. Thomas, ON, N5R 5T3 Price - $50 per family or $45 per family with a non-perishable food donation

Please mark your calendar for May 1st, 2014 for a Keith & Kristyn Getty concert to be held in the Aylmer Christian Reformed Church.  Tickets will be available in early December for Christmas gift giving.  The school office also has 3 of their CD’s available:  Joy, An Irish Christmas; Keith and Kristyn Modern and Traditional Hymns and for the children, Songs That Jesus Said.  A great Christmas gift at $12 each! 

Derrick Drover, one of our piano teachers, is holding a Christmas Concert (with his band) at the Richmond United Church on Friday, Dec.6th at 7 p.m. in Richmond.  All are welcome to enjoy an evening of praise and worship celebrating the Christmas season. 

Book Week: Thank you to everyone who participated in the dress-up portion of Book Week.  A winner was chosen from each grade to receive a coupon for $4.99 from any Scholastic Book club order this school year.  Winners received a copy of their prize which can be submitted to Mrs. Robinson with their book request.  Congratulations to Connor Mantel, Phoebe Sinke, Sarah Janssens, Josh Vannoord, Ben Weesjes, Holly Cameron, Matthew Ypma, Dylan Vandersleen and Matthew Cameron!  A big thank you also to Mrs. Vyn who so willingly handles the sales of Living Books.  Sales from various sales this fall enables us to get $200 worth of books for our Library!

FROM THE CLASSROOMS:
JUNIOR / SENIOR KINDERGARTEN – Mrs. Groeneweg
Some of the things we have done in Kindergarten....
               
Bible: Moses ( plaques)
                Letter and sound:  m

GRADES 1 and 2 - Ms. Pieters
Memory Work: Memory work for December 4
For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations. Psalm 100:5
Spelling: Spelling dictation is on Friday, November 29
Spelling List 11 for Grade 1: cats, pigs, beds, bugs, tops
Spelling List 11 for Grade 2: candy, puppy, went, sent, take, like, time, didn't, by, my
Scholastic Book Club: If you wish to place an order for December please fill out the form on the flyer and return it to school by Dec. 5 with the payment (cash or cheque). Thank you.
Creation Studies: We have begun a new unit called The Sky Declares...
The heavens declare the glory of God; The skies proclaim the work of his hands. Psalm 19:1-2
We will be doing a lot of sky watching in this unit. We will be studying the sun and the atmosphere as well as their relationship to day, night, and the seasons. We will also explore the various components of our weather; the sun, clouds, rain, snow, and the wind. Our thoughts will be directed to God, the Creator. We will recognize and marvel in God's designs and appreciate the repetition of his work through the seasons, in day and night, the water cycle, etc. Truly God is a pattern-maker! God is dependable. We can count on his provision in our lives.
Chateau Gardens/Grand-Pals: Chateau Gardens is a nursing home which students in Grades 1 and 2 have enjoyed visiting each year. We hope to do that again some time this year. We started this month with a pen-pal program also known as our Grand-pals. Seventeen of the seniors wrote letters to our class. After the students listened to their stories they each chose a Grand-pal with whom they wanted to correspond with. The students had fun choosing. Some similar connections were: lived on a farm, had cows, had horses, liked playing sports, had a pet cat, or lived in a big family. The students are now busy writing to their Grand-Pals. We hope to send them our mail soon.

GRADES 3 and 4 – Mrs. Drop

Star Student next week will be Jocelyn Shelton, followed by Lily Sinke.
There will be a math test on numeration and place value on Tues., Dec. 3.
Spelling Dictation:  Fri., Nov. 29
Grade 3 Spelling Words:  children, search, teacher, reached, think, together, with, where, everywhere, short, push, finish, sure, who, whole, everyone, thought
Grade 4 Words:  across, alone, among, brother, again, front, banana, appear, compass, pedal, given, heaven, mountain. ocean, cousin, purchase, often colour, bandana, forehead
Memory Work:  Psalm 145: 3 & 4:  Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.  One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts. 
Fri. Nov. 29 - French Numbers Quiz, (les numbres) from:  0 – 12 (zéro à douze).  Be able to translate and to spell the numbers in French (en français).  

GRADE 5 and 6 – Ms Buma


Spelling Dictation:  Fri. Nov. 29 – Unit 10
Friday Morning Devotions (Nov. 29) – Jordyn Vandendool
Memory Work: Wed. Dec. 4 - Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Bible Studies Test:  Friday, Nov. 29 – Esther:  A Story of Divine Providence – Read over your notes and refer to the Study Guide that you brought home yesterday, everyone.
Accelerated Reader:  Continue reading steadily and complete the quiz  soon after you finish reading each book.  You need to have reached 50% of your goal by Thurs. Dec. 19.  Keep up the good work!  AR Reports will be sent home this Fri. Nov. 29.
Science: We have made "icy sidewalks" and continue to test applications of sand, salt and combinations in reducing slipperiness and enhancing melting. Talk to your child as he or she learns to "think like a scientist."
Library / Tech: Mrs Robinson and Mr Cameron have covered how to access the valuable online encyclopaedias through the Oxford Country or Elgin County library sites. These are especially useful for class research projects, and require that every child has access to a library card. If your family does not have one, they're free at your nearest library branch! Your child is completing a "how to use the site" poster to help with future research projects.

GRADE 7 and 8 – Mr. TenBruggencate / Ms. Jones


There will be a test this Thursday in mathematics on Chapter 4: Probability
Science Unit test this Friday on Measurement (Chapters 1&2)
Memory Work Habakkuk 1:3-4
Geography:  Test on Food Chains, Major Biomes and Controls of Climate on Tuesday, Dec. 3.
LA Short Story response presentations this Thursday and Friday.
     Thursday: Dyllon B., Matthew C., Megan Y., Caleb K., Nicole F., Cole V.
      Friday: Amanda D., Jessica F., Kiley D., Correy M., Kameron G., Dean R., Tyler K., Kira S., Ryan K., Luke S., Ben V., Dylan V.,
                   Lindsay V.
Spelling Quiz is postponed until next week.
History: Please have tests signed and returned by this Friday. The class average was 80% - well done!
Tech: we are moving on to discuss safe and healthy online habits, using materials from CommonSenseMedia.org and the OPP's CyberCops game. By understanding dangers (the example used in class is online stalking) and discussing them with your children, you can help realize the positive potential of the Internet while minimizing its inherent risks. Our class lessons should help you to:
1. Establish a set of rules for your child(ren) to follow when using the Internet that includes amount of use, how to interact a
    appropriately online, and what to do if they feel uncomfortable or in danger.
2. Supervise children’s computer usage. Do not rely on filtering software to do the work.
3. Talk to your children about Internet safety and ethical behaviour on the Internet. Participate with them online. If they know more
     than you, let them teach you.
4. Encourage your child(ren) to come to you if they receive a message that makes them feel uncomfortable or threatened. The
    Internet should not be used to spread gossip, bully or threaten others. If this occurs, please contact the school immediately to help
    ensure it is addressed.


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Christmas Float Parade Participation

The Town of Aylmer theme for 2013 year is “Our Favourite Christmas Carol” so we are featuring Joy to the World.

___________________________________________________________________, will be able to participate in the Aylmer parade on Sat., Nov. 30th.  Meet at fairgrounds at 1:30, parade starts at 2:00, pick up student at end of parade at the school parking lot.

___________________________________________________________________, will be able to participate in the Springfield parade on Sat. Dec. 7th at 1:00 p.m.  Meet at John & Marie Smits’ farm, (51524 Ron McNeil Line) at 12:30, parade starts at 1:00, pick up student at end of parade at the Smit farm.  
                                                                                Parent’s Signature _____________________________

Please return permission slip to your teacher for the office as soon as possible so we know who many students wish to be involved.
Please contact Carrie Vis- cjvis@amtelecom.net or Annette Dykxhoorn- radykxhoorn@execulink.com 

Wednesday 20 November 2013

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Mission:  The mission of Immanuel Christian School is to prepare students to meet the challenge of the world and culture they live in as young and growing Christians.  Thus, students are taught the skill of discernment in the light of God’s Word, the practice of stewardship for creation, the required commitment to a life of Christian service, and the beauty of witness through modeling God’s love in a broken world.

School’s email address:  immanuel@amtelecom.net
Principal’s email address:  icsprincipal@amtelecom.net
ICS Website:  www.immanuelchristianschool.net    519-773-8476
Check us out on Facebook:   facebook.com/ICSAylmer     
         Twitter:  twitter.com/ICSAylmer
LDCSS Website:  www.ldcss.on.ca   519-455-4360
Christian Education Foundation (endowment fund): www.ldcef.org

Upcoming Events
Nov. 20  Membership Mtg @ 8
          22  Volleyball LDCSS; Friday Family Fun Night Dinner
          27  8:55 Chapel
          28  Fall Membership Meeting at LDCSS
          30  Aylmer Christmas Parade 2 p.m.
Dec.     2-18  Food collection for the Corner Cupboard
            4   8:55 Chapel

            7   Springfield Christmas Parade 1 p.m. 


From the Principals’ Desk:

This week is Book Week, with lots of special activities celebrating the gift of story. Our visiting author, Dr. Kari-Lynn Winters (Jeffrey and the Sloth) shared both fiction and non-fiction stories with the student body (and LCES students!) on Monday in an interactive, engaging manner. She made some of our links to the world outside the school come alive. We do seek to have our teaching be relevant to the real world our students live in, and "bringing the outside in" helps! We laughed with her as she recounted the story of Stinky Skunk Mel, and we considered our stewardly responsibilities in Buzz about Bees

I am reminded how important story is to teaching. This is a distinct strength to Christian education as we re-tell the Biblical story, and convey that it is also a story which continues to unfold directly in our lives. Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan, and then we convey to our students how they are called to be Protectors in class and on the schoolyard, as well as at home. We marvel at aspects of God's creation (trees, fish, whales, New France), then we reflect on how He calls us to use, care for and transform the areas of creation for which we have responsibility (our school, our homes, our culture, our country). There's an exciting role for story in all that! I trust that as parents, you are also excited about telling the stories your children are part of, and by extension, the story of the school we are blessed to be a part of, and the story of our faith!

in Christian education, Keith Cameron, Principal

Praying for our Families:  Last week Thursday morning we prayed for John & Wilma Hordyk and Cliff & Christine Janssens.
Praying for our Staff:  This week we will remember Mrs.Groeneweg in prayer.

Please remember in your prayers the Brantford Christian School community and in particular the Principal, Walt Hartholt and Vice-principal, Francine Roth. Both are battling different forms of cancer. While it goes without say that our intercession includes a plea for healing for both these individuals and strength for their families, we also ask that you remember the staff of the school and especially those who have stepped in to cover the administration gaps. Please also uphold the board before the Lord, as they too now carry a heavier burden with this news. Finally we ask that you remember the students as they too must deal with this issue.

"I love the LORD because he hears and answers my prayers. Because he bends down and listens, I will pray as long as I have breath!" Psalm 116:1-2



Reminders:  T.R.I.P. orders will be coming home on FRIDAY because of the delay in receiving some of the gift cards ordered!

                        The Christmas Meat and Baked Goods orders are due on Friday, Nov. 22 with pick up on Thursday, Dec. 12th from 2:30 – 4 p.m.  Coolers with names are them are most welcome!

Thank-you so much to one of our society members whose donation made it possible for us to host children’s author Dr. Kari-Lynn Winters for our Book Week!  Blessed, we were in turn able to bless our wider school community and host London Christian Elementary School students from JK to grade 2.  We are blessed to have supporters with a love for this school and passion for literacy!

Y'all are invited to Friday Family Fun Night’s Redneck Roadkill Cafe Dinner on Friday, November 22, 5-7pm in the school gym.  We reckon it will be great time and a meal full of local 'roadkill' served by a golly good bunch of rednecks from around these parts.  Buck up and don't be afraid - y'all will love the meal.  Adults $8, Children 10 + under $5.00 and dern tootin - all the money goes back to the school.  Get on your overalls, pack up the kin and see y'all there!
Tina Vyn will have her Successful Living books and cards available

Report Cards: Reports should be sent home this Thursday or Friday. We spend time to carefully evaluate performance and comment on character and achievement in a manner that is loving and honest. We trust that these reports are helpful as you guide your children to "grow in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man" (Luke 2:52).

This year we will be presenting a musical evening for our Christmas program. “Joy Notes for Christmas" is an evening where your child(ren) can showcase the talents and abilities God gave them. Please encourage your child(ren) to sign up on the bulletin board if they wish to participate!  We will have individual, class, choir and band participation.  Please mark Wednesday, December 18th on your calendar.
The Christmas parade is fast approaching and Promotions Committee is still looking for ethnic costumes if you have them. If anyone has French berets, Mexican sombreros, Dutch wooden shoes or traditional outfits we would really appreciated the use of them.
We understand that some of these items may mean a lot to you and your family, so if you would prefer that only your children or grandchildren wear them that would be perfectly fine. The costumes will only be worn while they are on the float during the parade.
 We are also in search of lawn signs with the words "JOY" or "PEACE". Your help would be greatly appreciated.
If any students are interested in singing and riding on the float for either the Aylmer or Springfield parades please fill out the permission form at the end of the Journal and return it the office. 
Please contact Carrie Vis- cjvis@amtelecom.net or Annette Dykxhoorn- radykxhoorn@execulink.com  

Electives: Education Committee is lining up some very interesting electives for grades 4-8 in Jan & Feb. They may include badminton, puppetry, archery, woodworking, model building, photography, personal grooming, stop-animation, winter survival, small engines, baking / cake decorating, etc. Once again, we would plan on our grade 3s completing the Red Cross Swim to Survive program. Committee members will be making calls to possible adult volunteer leaders. If you would like to run an elective (for the first time, or once again), please call the school to let us know! We are looking for name ideas for the model-building elective - anyone know an avid model-maker who connects well with children?

Building and Maintenance:  Competitive quotes are sought for the replacement of the remaining asphalt roof on the school with steel roofing. The committee recommends completing the project in Spring 2014 on the entire South Wing and the north side of the North Wing. Contractors within or known to our community are encouraged to put in an estimate by 30 November, for selection by the committee. Estimates should be submitted to the office
  
Hockey:  The new proposed format for the Bluewater Christian School Tournament will limit the number of teams that will be able to participate in each division.  In order to determine if Aylmer will attempt to register a 2014 team, we need to know the number of grade 5 to 8 students who will be trying out for the ICS team.  Please note that the cost for ice time for practices will be paid by team members and players will need to arrange their own rides to and from the arena.  The tournament is scheduled for Wednesday, March 5, 2014.  Please let Mrs. VanderHoek know by Tuesday, November 26, if you are interested in being an ICS hockey team player.

Report from the OACS Annual Governance Conference – Nov 16, 2013
Eric Hartemink, Board Vice-Chair, Jane Weverink, Board Secretary and Keith Cameron attended the annual OACS Governance Conference. Issues discussed include:
- models for thrift shops as alternative revenue streams. Is this an option locally?
- moving teaching forward in a project-based instructional model (though we would have liked more discussion on the teaching
 method rather than a sales pitch!).
- Principal reports which lead to good Board decision-making, as well as direction for and assessment of the Principal. Board leadership development was also highlighted.
- how OACS intends to support us in quality education with quality policy, Christian. curriculum and teacher collaboration.
- after 8 years of enrolment decreases across OACS, and amidst the CRA reassessments of CEAF, there was a 2% increase in 
students overall! OACS expenses in supporting schools through the reassessments are $70,000, which have been borne within existing funds. In the face of real challenges, praise God for His blessings as we pray for growth here at ICS too.

We are blessed to be part of the wider Christian education community that is the Ontario Alliance of Christian Schools! Our cost share is $71 per student, money well spent in our view.
- We highlighted the peer-reviewed 2012 Cardus Education Report. There is a statistical positive correlation between Christian schooling and adult church involvement. As we might expect, faithful parenting is blessed! Jeremiah 29:11. Talk up this story with your pastor!

BOOK WEEK has been an exciting time here at school!
*We were ever so grateful to have Kari-Lynn Winters visit our school on Monday morning.  Students were involved in the drama of story and a bit of the planning process that goes into a non-fiction book. Kari-Lynn's animated style truly brings books alive!
* This morning an array of book characters wandered our halls.  Best-Dressed prizes were handed out to one person from each grade. Students received a $4.99 off coupon for a book that can be ordered from any Scholastic Book Club order this school year. The winners will be posted next week.  
*Today students also looked at book in the Living Books sale and may have made up a "Wish List".  Please take the time to go over it with your child(ren) and give guidance and money for possible purchases.  Students will be visiting the book sales tomorrow (Thursday) with their class at the following times:     9-9:30 – gr. 7/8;      9:30-10 gr. 5/6;       10:30 – gr. 3/4;      11-11:30 – gr. 1/2. JK parents may take your student from class to “shop” with you anytime Thursday morning.  SK will visit on Friday morning.  
  Books are still being accepted for our New-to-You Sale.
*Congratulations to all students who earned a free AR skate this afternoon by reaching their AR goal!
*If you haven't already done it during this Book Week, take time to cozy up with your child and a good book. Time spent together sharing a story is precious!

FROM THE CLASSROOMS:
JUNIOR / SENIOR KINDERGARTEN – Mrs. Groeneweg
We would like to welcome Ms. Amy Wall to our classroom!
Ms. Wall is an ECE student from Fanshawe College in Simcoe who will be spending a total of eight weeks in our Kindergarten class, from November to June.
Some of the things we have done in Kindergarten....
                Bible: Moses
                Letter and sound: r 
                All about number 10 

SK:   Printing practice numbers 1-10
         Sight Word: me
         Math: Making sets of 10
         Longer, shorter
 JK:   Printing practice own names 
        Math: Counting 1-10
        Sorting
        More, less, same
        Patterning with shapes and colours



GRADES 1 and 2 - Ms. Pieters

Happy 6th Birthday
Kahlen Hiebert
Sunday, November 24, 2013
“May you be blessed by the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Psalm 115:15

Memory Work: Memory work for November 27
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name. Psalm 100:4
Spelling: Spelling dictation is on Friday, November 22
Spelling List 11 for Grade 1: ten, hat, hot, sand, hand
Spelling List 11 for Grade 2: send, pick, end, both, fast, last, must, just, bath, black

GRADES 3 and 4 – Mrs. Drop

Star Student for next week is Mariah Rempel, followed by Jocelyn Shelton
Spelling Words for Fri., Nov. 22:
Grade 3:  way, these, niece, might, show, float, brain, mean, close, tried, cube, uniform, stayed, price, usually, will, night
Grade 4:  Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, January, February, July, August, September, November, month, year, holiday, autumn, season, calendar, second, minute, annual, yearly
Memory Work:  Psalm 95: 6 & 7  Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for he is our God and                                                 we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care. 

GRADE 5 and 6 – Ms Buma

 Spelling Dictation:  Thurs. Nov. 21 – Review List (Units 5 – 9)
Memory Work:  Song:  Infant Holy, Infant Lowly
Infant holy, infant lowly, for his bed a cattle stall;
Oxen lowing, little knowing Christ the child is Lord of all.
Swiftly winging angels singing, bells are ringing, tidings bringing:
Christ the child is Lord of all!  Christ the child is Lord of all!
Text:  Polish; tr. Edith M. G. Reed, 1921
Tune: Polish; harm. Psalter Hymnal
Friday Morning Devotions (Nov. 22) – Micah Schuurman
Social Science: Mrs Lydia Bergen is excited to hear what the 5/6 class will discover during the Slip Stop project as they investigate how best to keep the school entrance clear of ice and snow. We're looking at the particle theory of solids, liquids and gases. We'll be designing "test sidewalks" to test out some relevant properties of solids, liquids and gases...


GRADE 7 and 8 – Mr. TenBruggencate / Ms. Jones

History Test on Thursday, Nov. 21. Chapter 2, 3 notes and text readings as well as New France Report Presentations.  This is an open notebook test.
LA - Short Story Presentations will be Nov. 28th and 29th. Final draft for editing is due Tuesday, 26th.
List 4 Spelling quiz will be on Friday, Nov. 29th
Class Potluck: Wednesday, November 27th
Permission forms for Volleyball teams need to be returned by Thursday for Friday's tournament. Check with Mr. T or Ms. Jones for details.
Geography:  You Tube Quiz Redo –hand in by Monday, Nov. 25; Test on Food Chains, Major Biomes and Controls of Climate on Tuesday, Dec. 3.
Memory Work:  Genesis 46:28-30

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Christmas Float Parade Participation

The Town of Aylmer theme for 2013 year is “Our Favourite Christmas Carol” so we are featuring Joy to the World.

___________________________________________________________________, will be able to participate in the Aylmer parade on Sat., Nov. 30th.  Meet at fairgrounds at 1:30, parade starts at 2:00, pick up student at end of parade at the school parking lot.

___________________________________________________________________, will be able to participate in the Springfield parade on Sat. Dec. 7th at 1:00 p.m.  Meet at John & Marie Smits’ place at 12:30, parade starts at 1:00, pick up student at end of parade at the Smit farm.   
                                                                                Parent’s Signature _____________________________

Please return permission slip to your teacher for the office as soon as possible so we know who many students wish to be involved.
Please contact Carrie Vis- cjvis@amtelecom.net or Annette Dykxhoorn- radykxhoorn@execulink.com

Wednesday 13 November 2013

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Mission:  The mission of Immanuel Christian School is to prepare students to meet the challenge of the world and culture they live in as young and growing Christians.  Thus, students are taught the skill of discernment in the light of God’s Word, the practice of stewardship for creation, the required commitment to a life of Christian service, and the beauty of witness through modeling God’s love in a broken world.

School’s email address:  immanuel@amtelecom.net
Principal’s email address:  icsprincipal@amtelecom.net
ICS Website:  www.immanuelchristianschool.net    519-773-8476
Check us out on Facebook:   facebook.com/ICSAylmer     
         Twitter:  twitter.com/ICSAylmer
LDCSS Website:  www.ldcss.on.ca   519-455-4360
Christian Education Foundation (endowment fund): www.ldcef.org

Upcoming Events

Nov.     14  Bus Safety @ 3 JK, 7/8
            15  PD day for ICS/LDCSS – report card writing
                16  19th Annual Sweets, Treats and Treasures Sale
               18 – 22 Book Week; 18th Author visit
                 20  8:55 Chapel; Book Character Dress-up Day;  
                     Pizza lunch; AR skate 2-3 p.m.;
                     Report cards go home; Membership Mtg @ 8
                22  Volleyball tournament at LDCSS
               22  Friday Family Fun Night Dinner

From the Principals’ Desk:

At Monday's staff meeting, we took time to reflect and celebrate Term 1, which finished last Friday. We highlighted "stars" (that which went well, and we'd like to repeat), as well as "wishes" (for improvement). "Stars" filled up fast! They included the Grandparents' Day format, the enthusiasm expressed for learning (both in Fish Days and elsewhere), how well certain classes work together, how our student families allow for meaningful connections and leadership and how we've supported teachers as they've transitioned to new subject areas. "Wishes" focused us on timely transitions from one activity to another, and on student sociability or "chatter" (depending how you view it!). Those things can distract from good learning. As a staff team, we can both reflect individually and work to help each other in those areas. We seek God's blessing and wisdom as we look forward to Term 2!

Following this Friday's Professional Activity day which allows teachers time to reflect and write reports, you will also be able to celebrate your child's / children's accomplishments. I would encourage you to involve your child in this with you, discussing both areas for further work and recognizing his or her best work. As parents, you are partners with us in education, and we cherish your encouragement and involvement.

Lastly, don't forget to come out to next Wednesday's Membership Meeting! This is a unique opportunity to "own" the school, and be an active partner in your child’s education. It’s something we might take for granted, but this is not present in either the Separate or the public schools.

in Christian education, Keith Cameron, Principal

Praying for our Families:  Last week Thursday morning we prayed for Chris & Christy Hiemstra and Al & Randee Hooghiem.
Praying for our Staff:  This week we will remember Mr. Cameron in prayer.

Our condolences go out to Dave & Charlene Van Gurp with their children, Jordyn, Aaron, Josiah and with Keith & Ellyn Sink, Lily, Phoebe and Eve with the passing away of Dave & Ellyn’s 2 ½ year old nephew in Orillia.  May God comfort and uphold the parents and extended families as thy morn the loss of this little one. 
               

                 
Get ready for Christmas early this year at our Sweet, Treats and Treasures Sale here at Immanuel Christian School in Aylmer!!!
From 9:00 - 2:00 you can enjoy a scrumptious breakfast or delicious lunch combo and then...........shop until you drop!!!! 
Visit one or all of these fabulous booths:

  -Bear Friend Factory  (Similar to Build-a-Bear)
  -Pampered Chef
  -Scentsy
  -Enjo (environmentally friendly cleaning products)
  -Sweet Nibbles (Candy, candy and MORE CANDY!!)
  -Intarsia
  -A Slice of Aylmer (selection of imported European products)
  -Jockey (women's apparel)
  -Lia Sophia (jewellery)
 -Thirty-One Gifts (Unique line of gift items)
-Tupperware
-Watkins (all-natural herbs, spices and personal care products)
-ICS Baked Goods
-ICS Decorated Cupcakes (First ever!!  Brought to you by the Gr.7/8 class)
-ICS Christmas Gifts and Crafts

.........and so much more!!!!

 We've also got some of Quai du Vin Winery's non-alcoholic wines, pre-made pots of greenery ready to put in your decorative urns on the front porch, and fresh bouquets of flowers!!

FREE babysitting!  GOOD food!!  And LOTS of new and exciting SWEETS, TREATS and TREASURES!!!!

So come out and join us this Saturday November 16 from 9-2 in the gym at Immanuel Christian School!!!  75 Caverly Road in Aylmer.

We look forward to seeing you there! 

Please help with Time/Food Donations for this Saturday’s Sale:  We urgently need your help! Please check the list at the end of the Journal for what you can donate or help with.  Please e-mail Bettina V. @ bett@amtelecom.net asap.

ICS Bake Table:  Each family is asked to bring in 2 doz. cookies or squares or other baked goods (packaged nicely to sell by 6’s or 12’s.  Baked goods need to be at school tomorrow .Thursday, Nov. 14 if you are sending it with your child or Friday, Nov. 15 if you wish to drop it off at the school.  Thanks you for your contribution.
Also, we need 1 family to “man” the table, so if you are willing to donate your time at the sale let us know on the form! If we have more families, we can split the shift. 

Reminders:  T.R.I.P. orders are due 9:00 a.m. tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 14 with pick up on Thursday, Nov. 21. 

The Christmas Meat and Baked Goods order form was sent home last week.  Lots of interesting items for your Christmas season and Christmas gift giving.  Orders are due on Friday, Nov. 22 with pick up on Thursday, Dec. 12th from 2:30 – 4 p.m.
 
The I.C.S. Fall Membership Meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 20 at 8:00 in the gym.  Agendas were attached to last weeks` Journal.  Come out and get informed as to what is happening with your school, meet other parents, and have a time to socialize. For members without children here, your agenda will either be mailed or placed in your church mailbox.
Volunteer hours:  Did you know that when you attend a membership meeting it counts for 2 hours towards your volunteer time?

Tina Vyn will have her Successful Living books set out as well as our NEW-TO-YOU BOOK Sale in connection with our Book Week.  Take a few minutes to browse or purchase at the new and used book sale table in hall.

Building and Maintenance:  Competitive quotes are sought for the replacement of the remaining asphalt roof on the school with steel roofing. The committee recommends completing the project in Spring 2014 on the entire South Wing and the north side of the North Wing. Contractors within or known to our community are encouraged to put in an estimate by 30 November, for selection by the committee. Estimates should be submitted to the office

AR Skate on Wednesday, Nov 20. Students who have missed their goals were informed by their classroom teacher, and will need to cover their own costs for participation ($3 in this case).  SK – through gr. 2 must wear helmets, all should wear gloves.  Skates may be rented at the rink for $2 if needed. 
AR Goals:  Parents, with the new term started you can check on your child's progress online using the link on our Wikispaces age: https://immanuelchristianschool.wikispaces.com/Reading.  Parental support and encouragement is very important. 

Breakfast Snack Program: We continue to be excited to be joining local schools in giving our students a healthy boost in the mornings! Many thanks to our parent volunteers (Mrs Rempel and Mrs Hibbert) and our student service teams who run this new program! As an update, costs to date have been just over $600, which works out to $0.33 per student per day. To make this program even smoother and less distracting in our morning reading period, we’ll be phasing out the drinks. All students are asked to bring a re-useable water bottle, which is also healthy practice. We’ll stretch our $2000 grant even further and avoid class spills this way! Donations towards this program, in cash or in kind, will also be gladly received.

BOOK WEEK is coming! Nov. 18 to 22!

Monday, Nov. 18 - Childrens' author Kari-Lynn Winters will be doing a book talks at ICS with the SK-Gr. 4 at 10:50 and Grades 5-8 at 11:40. Her books are on display in the library.  A book list was attached to last week's Journal; please send in pre-orders tomorrow.  See http://kariwinters.com/ for more information. 

* Wednesday, Nov. 20 - Character Dress-up Day. Come to school dressed as a favourite book character.  We are looking for creative costumes, true to the character depicted.  For extra emphasis, bring a copy of your book with you!

* Wednesday, Nov. 20 (viewing and Wish Lists), Thursday, Nov. 21 to Friday, Nov. 22 (purchasing) - Book Sales - Successful Living and New-To-You book sales. 
NEEDED: gently used books that you are finished with and can be added to our book sale.  Sort through closets and shelves, and pass them on.  There is a box by the library door to collect your contributions.  

Come celebrate with us.  Join us for any of the events; take time to browse the book displays (hint: the Membership Meeting is scheduled for Wed evening that week). If you would like to help with book sales on Thursday, Mrs. Robinson would love to hear from you!

The Christmas parade is fast approaching and Promotions committee is looking for your help with the schools float. We are still in need of ethnic costumes; Dutch items such as wooden shoes or more traditional outfits, a Mexican sombreros, a Hawaiian grass skirts, a French berets or oriental outfits.
 We are also in search of lawn signs with the words "JOY" or "PEACE". Your help would be greatly appreciated. Please contact Carrie Vis- cjvis@amtelecom.net or Annette Dykxhoorn-  radykxhoorn@execulink.com
  
Y'all are invited to Friday Family Fun Night’s Redneck Roadkill Cafe Dinner on Friday, November 22, 5-7pm in the school gym.  We reckon it will be great time and a meal full of local 'roadkill' served by a golly good bunch of rednecks from around these parts.  Buck up and don't be afraid - y'all will love the meal.  Adults $8, Children 10 + under $5.00 and dern tootin - all the money goes back to the school.  Get on your overalls, pack up the kin and see y'all there!
Volleyball:  Drivers are requested for next Tuesday's boys’ game in St. Thomas and for the boys’ and girls’ Christian School tournament in London  (LDCSS) on the 22nd.  The schedule was sent home today.  All permission slips need to be submitted for team members to participate in the tournament.

East Elgin Youth Basketball:  Please contact The East Elgin Youth Basketball club at eastelginhoops@hotmail.com if you are interested in signing up for winter club basketball. Just state boy or girl and grade with your contact information. If you have any questions speak to Ms. Jones. Club will begin in approximately two weeks.

FROM THE CLASSROOMS:

JUNIOR / SENIOR KINDERGARTEN – Mrs. Groeneweg

Some of the things we have done in Kindergarten....
               
Bible: Moses;  Letter and sound: h;  All about number 10

                       SK:  Printing practice numbers 1-10
                       Sight Word: I 
                       Math: Making sets of 9
                       Longer, shorter 

JK:  Printing practice own names
       Math: Counting 1-10
       Sorting
      More, less, same
      Patterning with shapes and colours


GRADES 1 and 2 - Ms. Pieters
Happy 6th Birthday
Makayla Zylstra
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
“May you be blessed by the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Psalm 115:15

Memory Work: Memory work for November 20
Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Psalm 100:3
Spelling: Spelling dictation is on Thursday, November 14
Spelling List 10 for Grade 1: top, stop, men, fix, fox
Spelling List 10 for Grade 2: place, make, making, help, here, want, nice, to, two, into
One of our students is missing a pink, knit looking hat.  We are wondering if it went home in another child's backpack.  If found please send back to Ms. Pieters.  Thanks


GRADES 3 and 4 – Mrs. Drop

Memory Work:  Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.  Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.  Psalm 95: 1-2
Next week's Star Student will be Caleb Poortinga next week, followed by Mariah Rempel.
Spelling Dictation will be tomorrow, due to the PD Day on Fri., Nov. 15
Grade 3 Spelling Words:  swimming, swam, getting, coming, came, having, doing, ended, happened, happening, started, joked, received, smiled, smiling, hungry, hoping
Grade 4 Spelling Words:  follow, matter, summer, million, dollar, scissors, cattle, address, office, suppertime, blizzard, penny, wrapper, wallet, occurrence, village, collide, battle, poster, collision
Art:  Remembrance Posters are due tomorrow. 

GRADE 5 and 6 – Ms Buma

Spelling Dictation:  Thurs. Nov. 14 – Unit 8
Thursday Morning Devotions (Nov. 14) – Kaylynn Mantel
Memory Work:  Wed. Nov. 20 – Esther 4:14 –“ For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish.  And who knows, but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
Accelerated Reader:  A note including AR goals for Term 2 will be sent home on Thursday, Nov. 14.
Remembrance Day Posters:  Remembrance Day Posters are due Thurs. Nov. 14, and will be forwarded shortly after, to the Royal Canadian Legion in Aylmer.
Health:  Read handouts in duo tang for next Health class, Tuesday, Nov.12th. They will help you to be ready for preparing skits.
Completed notes will be due the following Thursday after presentations.
Phys. Ed.:  Please remember to bring gym clothes and shoes to class in order to participate. Classes are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday every week with health classes approximately four times a month. (see calendar on wall outside of the gym)
social science: Webquests for our "slip stop" project were due today, as were parental signatures on our last unit's portfolio. We're moving forward to learn more about matter, and how we can design experimental "sidewalks" to test slipperiness!

GRADE 7 and 8 – Mr. TenBruggencate / Ms. Jones

Memory Work for Wed. November 20th -  Genesis 45:4&5
Science investigations up to and including 1-10 are due.  
Art: Remembrance Day Posters/writing work period - Wednesday, November 13th, due Thursday Nov. 14th.
History: Topic Report about New France in progress. Due date changed to the Tuesday, Nov. 19th for presentation. Open to school and visitors.
L.A.: Short Stories Presentation from Choices and Decisions readings. Final draft due for editing: Tuesday, November 26th. 
Presentations scheduled for Thursday, November 28th and Friday 29th.
November Pot Luck will hopefully remain scheduled for Wednesday 27th. Thank you for your help in this fun classroom event :)


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Time/Food Donations for the Sweets, Treats and Treasures Sale
We are in need of:   _____  2 pots of pea soup
                                    _____  2 pots of cream of potato
                                    _____  2 dozen dinner rolls
                                    _____ 3 dozen muffins  
We need kitchen help for day...highschoolers are also welcome!   Shifts are:  _____  2 people for 10 till 2 shift
                                                                                                                                           _____  2 people for 12 till 2 shift
________________________________  Name