As we embrace the changing seasons, we want to extend a warm welcome to all our families. Our school community thrives on the support and involvement of each of you, and we are grateful for your continued partnership. 

Last week was filled with excitement and learning! We were thrilled to host the Indigenous Games Residency with Jaron Weaselbear. Students engaged in understanding traditional Indigenous sports and cultural activities, gaining valuable insights into the importance of respecting diverse practices and beliefs. This experience has enriched our students’ understanding of community and respect for one another. 

Additionally, our School Council meeting was a wonderful opportunity for parents and guardians to share their voices and support our students. The conversations focused on upcoming the initiatives to update our school playground, the outdoor space revitalization project, and October activities for students.  Thank you to everyone who participated. 

Upcoming Week's Updates

Monday: No Classes - Thanksgiving Day 

Tuesday: Photo Retake Day 

School Photo Retake Day is coming up on Tuesday, October 15! 

Word of the Week: Disappointed 

Definition: Feeling sad or displeased because something did not happen as expected. 

Example Sentence: "She felt disappointed when the event was canceled because she was looking forward to it." 

Morphology of the Word: 

  • Root: "Disappoint" – to fail to fulfill someone’s hopes or expectations. 
  • Prefix: "Dis-" – indicates a negative or opposite effect. 
  • Suffix: "-ed" – indicates the past tense or a state of being. 

Supporting Students with the School Wide Problem-Solving Model 

At Somerset School, we encourage our students to express their feelings and work through challenges, both social and academic, by using our School Wide Problem-Solving Model. This model helps students articulate their emotions and needs in a constructive way. Here’s the framework: 

I feel  [emotional awareness/vocabulary], 

When  [describe the action/behavior], 

I need  [suggested action/change]. 

To support our students in using this model effectively, here are some prompts to consider: 

  • When I feel disappointed, I calm myself by ... (e.g., breathing in through my nose for 4 seconds then breathing out through my month for 8 seconds). 
  • What is happening that is making you feel provoked? (Encourage your child to identify the specific behavior or situation) 
  • How can you use your words to let someone know they are provoking you and you NEED them to stop? (Guide them to express their feelings assertively and respectfully using the above framework) 

By using these prompts, we can help our students build emotional awareness and develop effective communication skills. Thank you for your support in reinforcing these concepts at home! 

Casino Fundraiser 

Next School Council Casino fundraiser is set for Sunday, November 24 and Monday, November 25 at the Deerfoot Inn & Casino.  

By volunteering your time or encouraging others to join, you help support our students in so many valuable ways. The funds raised from this event directly support: 

  • Classroom Resources: Providing engaging materials like books, technology, and hands-on learning tools that help students succeed. 
  • Learning Resources: Enhancing Early Literacy and Numeracy initiatives to strengthen foundational skills. 
  • Well-Being Initiatives: Funding for activities which promote emotional and social well-being, including our School-Wide Problem Solving model and special events like the Indigenous Games Residency, Movement Space and Sensory Room resources. 
  • Enrichment Opportunities: Supporting field trips, special residencies, and additional programs which enrich the student experience beyond the classroom. 

Sign up HERE 

Important Dates Ahead

Sign up HERE 

  • 28 November – Parent Teacher Conferences (Evening) 

Sign up using your MyCBE/PowerSchool account 

  • 29 November – Parent Teacher Conferences (Evening) 

Sign up using your MyCBE/PowerSchool account 

  • 11 December – WINTER CELEBRATION (in the PM) 
  • 19 December - Hot Dog Lunch Fun Lunch(Cut-Off: 14 December) 
  • 20 December – Last day of Classes 
  • 23 Dec. - 3 Jan. 2025! 
  • 6 January – Classes Resume 

As we wrap up this week’s update, we want to remind everyone that it is perfectly normal to feel disappointed from time to time! But remember, it is how we respond to those feelings which truly matters. Let’s turn those moments into opportunities for growth and connection within our school community! 

Thank you, families, for your continued support and involvement. Your engagement makes a world of difference in our students’ lives! We encourage you to dive into the "Work of the Week" together and foster conversations about what your child is learning. 

Don’t forget to stay connected and informed through our upcoming communications. Together, we can ensure our students thrive both academically and socially. 

Hand to Heart,   

Nathan Bane   

Principal, Somerset School