Boo!  As we approach the end of October, we are excited to embrace the spirit of Halloween! We want to remind our community that on Halloween, students are welcome to wear safe and non-violent costumes to school, should they choose to do so. We understand that not all families celebrate this occasion, and we want to ensure everyone feels included and respected. 

When selecting costumes, please keep in mind that they should allow for full participation throughout the day, including during Physical Education. We kindly ask that costumes be appropriate for our kindergarten through grade 4 environment—this means: 

  • avoiding anything overly gory, 
  • negative stereotypes, or  
  • anything that could be considered discriminatory or harmful. 

It is important that students remain identifiable throughout the day, so please refrain from any prop weapons, as these will not be allowed at school. If any are accidentally brought, they will be held in the office until they can be picked up. 

For those who prefer a simpler approach, dressing up is completely optional! Students can easily participate by wearing orange and black, or any color they choose, along with their regular clothes. 

On the afternoon of Thursday, October 31, students will have the opportunity to enjoy organized games during their Physical Education block, coordinated by our School Council, as well as fun classroom activities led by their teachers.  

As a reminder, please keep costumes simple and easy for students to manage independently, particularly when using the washroom. 

Upcoming Week's Updates

Thursday: Practice FIRE DRILL 

Friday: NO CLASSES for students. Professional Learning Day for Teachers 

WORD of the WEEK -Shy 

Definition

Feeling nervous or timid in the presence of others; hesitant to engage or speak. 

Example Sentence

The shy girl quietly observed her classmates from the corner of the playground. 

Morphology of the Word

  • Root: Shy 
  • Prefix: None 
  • Suffix: None 

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 shy, I calm myself by... (e.g., taking deep breaths or counting to ten). 
  • What is happening that is making you feel shy? (Encourage your child to identify the specific behavior or situation.) 
  • How can you use your words to let someone know what you need when you are feeling shy? (Guide them to express their feelings and needs clearly.) 
    • Role-Playing: Create safe scenarios where students can practice speaking up. Take turns role-playing different situations, allowing them to rehearse using phrases like, “I need a moment to feel comfortable” or “Can you help me join in?” 
    • Sentence Starters: Provide students with sentence starters to help them articulate their feelings. For example, “I feel shy when...” or “I need help with...” This gives them a clear framework to express themselves. 
    • Encourage Small Steps: Suggest starting with small interactions, like greeting a classmate or asking a question. Celebrate these efforts to build their confidence gradually, reinforcing that it’s okay to speak up even when feeling shy. 

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! 

We need your help! 

Casino Fundraiser

Don't be shy about joining in!  

Get ready for a fun-filled weekend at our 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 the fun, you’ll be helping our students in so many amazing ways. Here’s what your support will do: 

  • 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!

Important Dates Ahead (Next 6-8 Weeks)

Sign up!

  • 28 November – Parent Teacher Conferences (Evening) 

Sign up using your MyCBEPowerSchool account 

  • 29 November – Parent Teacher Conferences (Evening) 

Sign up using your MyCBEPowerSchool 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 

See you tomorrow.  

Hand to Heart,  

Nathan Bane   

Principal, Somerset School