Principal's Email - Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024

1.    Dates To Remember:
November 20th - Report Cards Go Out
November 21st - Parent Teacher Interviews After School
November 22nd - No Classes Parent Teacher Interviews in the morning
November 29th - ACTT Grade 9 Presentation Grade 9B at 8:30 a.m. and 9A at 9:30 a.m.
December 5th - Mothers Against Drunk Driving Presentation 
December 5th - Junior High Dance 6 - 8 p.m. Senior High Dance 8:10-10:00 p.m.
 
2.    The KISHMAS 2nd Annual Holiday Wreath Campaign is running from Nov 12-22. Wreaths will be $30, and the options include either a red or a buffalo plaid bow, decorated by our grade 9 exploratory classes. Please see a KISH student or contact a staff member to order your wreath in time for Christmas.

3.    New Bleachers
The KISH gymnasium is getting new bleachers! We were hoping to have them installed in August, then September… now we are hoping for February or March. 

4.    Pie Campaign
Sold 1040 handpies and 1206 fruit pies
Thanks to the top 3 sellers were Kailee Clow, Kayleigh MacNevin, Maxx Montgomery

5.    Student Council
•    Spiritwear is being ordered. Order forms will be available next week. Table at parent teacher interviews. Can order online through company after deadline.
•    Grade 7 t-shirts have been ordered. Only ¼ of the students took advantage of offer from Student Council to purchase t-shirt at half the price. (Council paid the rest)
•    Dance on December 5th will have tickets on sale soon. Junior high is 6-8 and senior high is 8:10-10. Theme is Christmas Around the World. More information will be shared soon.
•    12 Days of KISHmas will take place from Dec. 5-20

6.    Grade 9 LFI Trip
Inspirational Woodworks is proudly supporting the grade 9 French Immersion program at KISH by hosting Santa’s Cottage again. Santa will be hosting guests Friday December 13th from 5-8pm, Saturday December 14th from 9-5 and Sunday December 15th from 9-5. Use the link to sign up for your time: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4CAEA62FA7FAC07-52943669-santas 
Please share this post with all your friends so that we may help them raise funds for year end trip.

7.    Essential Skills Achievement Pathway Grade 10 Students
We are currently still in the nomination/selection process.
Students nominated will meet with Mr. Andrews next week to discuss further steps and learn more about the program. At this point they will be given an application form to be signed by their guardian and returned if they are interested.
Interviews will be held (Dec. 2nd- Dec. 6th) with each student who competed and returned their application form. 
Students will know by Dec.9th if they are accepted into the program.
Any parents who have questions about the program should schedule a parent teacher interview with Mr. Andrews.

8.    KISH Athletics November 18-21st
***A reminder to all athletes who played a fall sport to please return your jersey ASAP if you haven’t already.
Monday, November 18th
2:33-4:00 – JG Basketball Practice
7:00-8:30 – SM Basketball Practice
Tuesday, November 19th
2:33-4:00 – JB Basketball Practice
Wednesday, November 20th
2:33-4:00 – JG Basketball Practice
7:00-8:30 – SM Basketball Practice
Thursday, November 21st
2:33-4:00 – JB Basketball Practice

9.    Attending your child's parent-teacher interviews is important for several reasons:
1. Understanding Academic Progress
•    These meetings provide insight into how your child is performing academically, including their strengths and areas for improvement. You’ll learn about their progress relative to the curriculum and their peers.
2. Identifying Learning Needs
•    Teachers can share specific observations about your child’s learning style, participation, and behavior in class. This helps identify any additional support or enrichment your child might need.
3. Building a Partnership
•    Regular communication between parents and teachers fosters a collaborative relationship. Working together ensures your child’s needs are met both at school and at home.
4. Addressing Concerns Early
•    Parent-teacher interviews offer a platform to address any academic or social challenges early on. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming larger problems.
5. Gaining a Holistic View
•    Besides academic performance, teachers can share insights on your child’s social interactions, emotional well-being, and behavior, offering a more complete picture of their school life.
6. Setting Goals
•    You and the teacher can work together to set realistic goals for your child, fostering accountability and motivation.
7. Demonstrating Involvement
•    Your presence shows your child that you value their education and are invested in their success, which can boost their self-esteem and motivation.
 
10.    It was very clear that yesterday was the full moon for November at KISH. Here are some November full moon details:
The November full moon, often referred to as the Beaver Moon, holds significance in various cultural, historical, and astronomical contexts. Here are some important facts:
1. Name and Origin
•    Beaver Moon: The name comes from Native American and colonial traditions. November was the time to set beaver traps before the swamps froze, ensuring a supply of warm furs for the winter.
•    Other traditional names include the Frost Moon and Mourning Moon, reflecting seasonal changes or cultural beliefs.
2. Timing and Position
•    The November full moon usually occurs between late October and late November, depending on the lunar calendar.
•    It rises shortly after sunset and sets around sunrise, offering a full night of moonlight.
3. Astronomical Significance
•    Lunar Eclipse: Occasionally, the November full moon coincides with a lunar eclipse, either partial or total, adding an extra layer of interest for stargazers.
•    The full moon marks the halfway point in the lunar cycle and is a key phase for understanding moon phases and tides.
4. Cultural and Spiritual Significance
•    In many cultures, the November full moon marks a time of reflection, preparation, and gratitude as communities prepare for the winter months.
•    In some spiritual practices, it’s seen as a time for letting go of the old and embracing new beginnings.
5. Impact on Nature and Wildlife
•    The bright light of the full moon influences animal behavior, affecting nocturnal predators and prey.
•    For centuries, farmers have used the full moonlight to extend their workday during the harvest season.
6. Visual Characteristics
•    The November full moon can appear larger and more colorful (e.g., yellow or orange) when it's near the horizon due to atmospheric effects.