At any given time at Saint James the Apostle School one might spot a site that has become very familiar to us. Our own Mrs. Maura Crawford, our third grade teacher, has become quite the scientist. More times than not as we happen to look out our windows or pass by a door we see Mrs. Crawford with her little habitat, enticing an insect or two to share with her class. After observations and recording of information which occurs within a few hours, the children release the little critter and begin to dialogue and write about what they have seen and comparing to those who come before. We have seen very interesting creatures over the past few weeks. Mrs. Crawford’s class has also created a home for a lizard named Spike. A few days ago Spike looked a bit ill. Father Sorgie came by and gave Spike a little blessing. The next day Spike perked right up! We are thrilled that the children are writing for a purpose and the purpose is not only educational but so much fun!
Now that we have settle in our teachers are beginning to plan a variety of class trips. The first trip will be apple and pumpkin picking at Barton Farms. It is very important to us that we incorporate the outdoor classroom into our lives at Saint James School. The children learn so much when they are out and about. Work done in school becomes so much more significant when it is partnered with all that is available to us both locally and beyond. We look forward to many more trips.
A thank you to Mr. Bill Dring of Putnam Stone and Mason Supply for donating the mulch for our playground. Each year our maintenance staff makes sure the playground is weed free and Father Vincent makes it his job to make sure the playground is structurally safe. In addition Mr. Dring annually donates the mulch which completes the picture. Hopefully there are many beautiful days ahead to play outside.