Gold Rush Elementary

Principal's Message - December 8, 2023

“Foster Growth by Challenging Critical Thinkers to Take Risks,

Honor Differences & Care for Others”

DEMONSTRATING LEADERSHIP

Young AmeriTowne is an opportunity for fourth grade students to learn personal financial literacy in a hands-on, engaging manner. Students spend the day operating a realistic town where they apply business and economics skills. Students interview for a role in the town, such as a mechanic, police officer, snack shop employee and disc jockey. Students learn the responsibilities associated with their assigned profession and assume the occupation during their visit.

Some positions, such as mayor and judge, involve campaigning and a grade level vote. This Friday top candidates from each classroom ran for these positions. In speeches to their peers, students shared why they felt qualified for the role. We appreciated seeing students’ leadership and risk taking in action!

In the coming week students will also learn how they can earn money to purchase goods. They will manage their money and budget for expenses. We know that students will have a memorable learning experience!

CREATING A CARING COMMUNITY

Gold Rush students and staff are committed to working together to create a caring community. This environment allows all students to feel safe and included. It is also widly known that a positive school culture fosters academic, social and emotional growth and resilience.

Students are sharing ways that they can care for others. In addition to Going for the G.O.L.D., students are identifying how they can “light up their world.” Students are noticing how simple actions and words, such as smiling and sharing positivity, impacts others.

Students from GRE’s Young Rotarians Club are also challenging students to acts of kindness each day before break. They are reminding students that they have the daily opportunities to uplift and learn from their classmates. They are also learning that their impact can be profound, even in a short period of time.

We are proud of students' leadership in creating a positive school culture.

MUSIC MAKERS

In music students learn how to play a variety of instruments across the grade levels. Our youngest students initially learn how to read and play music on the xylophone and glockenspiel. Third graders move on to the recorder. After several weeks of practicing, students are taking their recorders home for the first time. Older students also have the opportunity to play both the ukulele and the drums.

Students demonstrate their knowledge of rhythm and ability to read music on each instrument. Students also learn how to collaborate and perform as an ensemble. This is evident this week in the drum circle video shown above. We thank music teacher, Mrs. Petty, for giving students a well rounded foundation in music education.

A SUCCESSFUL HOLIDAY MARKET

Our parents transformed our technology lab into a festive winter store. Students enjoyed shopping for loved ones. We thank our PTO and parent volunteers for making the holiday market possible!

This is now a beloved school tradition that all enjoy!