Kindergarten wrote about their feelings, and practiced using capital letters. First grade focused on the character traits of respect and responsibility. Third graders studied land forms and began a narrative writing project. In art they created rainbow pumpkin paintings based on their understanding of the color wheel. Why was every one so dressed up? In addition to picture day on Wednesday, the middle schoolers were dressed professionally to present their outside reading projects to their peers. Seventh graders began planning fundraising activities for their Tzedakah project. The eighth graders planned a special Havurot activity for the whole school this week, and the grades came together in their Chavurot groups to make delicious candy Torahs in honor of Simchat Torah.

This was the last short week until conferences on October 29 and 30. Get ready for a full week next week at last!

Common Ground Speaker Series
Don't miss the next Common Ground event "The Gift of Failure: How to Let Go So Your Children Can Succeed" by Jessica Lahey on October 13 and 14.  Learn more about this speaker and the full 2015-16 Common Ground Speaker Series at www.commongroundspeakerseries.org. 

Chugim Are Here!
At long last, the Chugim are here!  The booklet can be found here and classes start next week! If you have questions, please stop by the office or email info@wornickjds.org.

Parent-Teacher Conference Sign Ups
Parent-Teacher Conference Sign Ups will be available next week via Veracross, our student information system. Please note that Gesher will be available free of charge while you are in your conferences, and for families that are contracted with four or more days per week. Outside of the conference times, hourly Gesher rates ($13.50/hr) do apply.  Gesher will be open from 7:30am-8pm on Thursday, October 29, and from 7:30-6pm on Friday, October 30.

Flu Reminder
As our seasons turn and the air turns chilly, it's time to remember that flu season is upon us. Please make sure that if your child(ren) are not feeling well and express symptoms of the flu (fever, chills, etc.) to keep them home so we keep school as healthy as possible. Good handwashing and sweaters are always appreciated, too!

Wednesday Hot Lunch making a change!
The kids, or I should say many of them, LOVE the nuggets and just like hot dogs.  We would like to start having CHICKEN NUGGETS EVERY WEDNESDAY.  Rachel will still make SOME hot dogs/chicken dogs for the kids that only want that.  Please email me (pbodin@wornickjds.org) if you think your child will prefer hot dogs so that we make enough.  We also offer sauteed tofu on this meat day for anyone who would like that. 

Hot Lunch
Want to sometimes come and serve hot lunch? Email Pam at pbodin@wornickjds.org and get put on the subs list for when a dedicated server needs a day off.  You will then get an email when we have a need. If you can take the day just reply all, and let us know you claim it.

Grab your Yarmulka, it's time for Hanukkah
Actually, it's time for Hanukkah party planning.  We are starting a new tradition!   Instead of one school-wide party, this year, PTO has decided to bring the intimacy of Hanukkah to you via grade specific holiday parties - all happening on Sunday, December 6th.  Look out for an email from your room parent detailing all the fun.  Save the Date for Hanukkah 2015 - Sunday, December 6th.