Principal's Update
Despite the rain and a cold Friday, energy and spirits were up at Braintree this week! Our safety drills went well; we were able to test our emergency responses and make adjustments for the future. It was lovely to see so many students and families at the Tunbridge Fair last weekend! Thank you for saying hello to me and my family. We are proud of all of our students (and faculty!) who showed livestock and submitted art and yummy treats for judging!
Academics are in full swing by this point in the year. I had the privilege of leading first grade students in math last week and two sections of fifth graders this week. Across the board, we are discussing growth mindset and how to stay positive through productive struggle. Bridges, our re-adopted math curriculum for kindergarten - grade 5, includes hands-on center activities and games called Work Places. Students learned and practiced new Work Places this week that they will continue to visit as the year progresses.
We are also a community of readers at Braintree! Older and younger students partner each week as Reading Buddies to share stories and the joy of reading with each other. Check below for an exciting community reading event taking place around Randolph on Thursday evening.
As the weather cools and autumn is here, the season of itchy throats and sneezes has arrived as well. Please be reminded that students with fevers (>100.4), diarrhea, or Covid-like or flu-like symptoms should stay home for their own wellness and that of others. We have Covid tests available in the vestibule for families. More details are in the Family Handbook that was sent home in August.
Looking forward, please be aware that Picture Day is this upcoming Wednesday the 28th. We are proud to partner with staff and local organizations to hold Safe Kids Week next week. Check out the flier to learn about the events!
Farm to School
Perhaps you have noticed our new farmstand in the yard! We hope for this space to be a continuation of Braintree's outdoor and wellness education, in partnership with Drift Farm. We will offer local goods for sale at community events, including produce grown on our grounds as well as student-created art and donated and consignment items from local growers. Students will learn the economics of operating a small business, and we also have hopes for an agricultural-themed lending library. This operation is funded predominantly through grants and donations. If you or someone you know has any items to donate, please contact Abi Gershon (agershon@orangesouthwest.org). Examples of items include local jam, veggies, gourds, flowers, and more. The farmstand's Grand Opening will be at Pumpkin Carving Night, October 27.
Our Farm to School program also includes visits from Farmer Anne, who leads students in conversations about growing food and flowers and also facilitates work in our gardens. Our first tasting event is scheduled for Wednesday, October 5th. Students will harvest rainbow chard from our garden beds in the morning, and older students will build a fire and make soup. All students will have a chance to try it in the afternoon!
